Bar Pro Bono Awards nominees revealed

Advocate, the Bar’s national pro bono charity, has unveiled the nominees for the 2025 Bar Pro Bono Awards, set to occur on Tuesday 6th May 2025 at Lincoln's Inn. Sponsored by LexisNexis, the awards have been celebrated annually since 1997, highlighting exceptional pro bono achievements over the past year. The awards reflect the dedication of barristers who volunteer their expertise to provide legal aid to those lacking access to justice.

This year, the categories include Young Pro Bono Barrister of the Year, Junior Pro Bono Barrister of the Year, Pro Bono KC of the Year, and several others. A complete nominee list is available on the Advocate website. Advocate Chairman Sharif A. Shivji KC (pictured) remarked, “We are thrilled to have received such an exceptional calibre of nominees for this year’s Bar Pro Bono Awards. Every individual has played a vital role in advancing pro bono work, ensuring access to justice for those who need it most.”

The judging panel for this prestigious event comprises respected figures from the legal community, including High Court judges and senior members of the Bar Council. Maura McGowan, one of the judges for the Young Pro Bono Barrister category, noted, “The level of excellence among the nominees is truly remarkable. Each one of them has demonstrated outstanding qualities, making it incredibly challenging to choose a winner.”

The awards will also see the attendance of prominent members from the Bar and justice system, including The Justice of the Supreme Court, Lord Briggs of Westbourne, and Attorney General The Rt Hon Lord Richard Hermer KC. The closed event promises to celebrate the invaluable contributions made by barristers in pro bono work.

Highlighting some notable winners from the previous 2024 Bar Pro Bono Awards, Haydee Dijkstal received accolades for her significant contributions to international legal representation, while Jake Rudman was recognised for his impactful pro bono advice. Tinessa Kaur was awarded for her dedication to underrepresented communities and her efforts in promoting access to the legal profession.

As the awards approach, further information on interview opportunities for winners will be made available, providing insight into their inspiring work in the pro bono sector.