The 2026 edition of the Scottish Legal Awards, the premier independent awards programme dedicated to the Scottish legal industry, has officially launched. Now in its 23rd year, the awards continue to celebrate the exceptional achievements of individuals, teams, and firms across Scotland’s dynamic legal sector.
With a strong commitment to recognising outstanding contributions made over the past twelve months, the Scottish Legal Awards provide a prestigious platform to highlight excellence, innovation, and best practice across the profession. The 2026 programme features 21 award categories, reflecting the breadth and diversity of expertise and services delivered by Scotland’s lawyers.
All entries will be rigorously assessed by an independent judging panel led by Lorna Jack, whose extensive experience and respected standing within the Scottish legal sector bring authority and integrity to the process. She will be joined by a panel of senior legal experts, each contributing valuable insight and professional judgement to the review and debate of submissions.
The entry deadline is Monday, 27 April 2026, and entrants are encouraged to submit early to ensure their achievements are fully considered.
Winners will be revealed at the Scottish Legal Awards Annual Dinner, hosted by popular broadcaster Des Clarke, on Thursday, 17 September 2026, at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Glasgow Central. The evening promises to be a highlight of the legal calendar, bringing together the profession to celebrate success and excellence.
Continuing a proud tradition, the Scottish Legal Awards will also raise funds on the night in support of Lawscot Foundation, reinforcing the event’s ongoing commitment to giving back to the legal community.
The Scottish Legal Awards offer a unique opportunity to gain recognition among peers and to showcase the outstanding work being carried out across Scotland’s legal sector. Entries are now open—don’t miss the chance to be recognised for your achievements.
For full details on how to enter and to view the category criteria, click here.
The 2026 Categories:
Company Awards
Firm of the Year (250 Employees and Over)
Firm of the year (Up to 250 Employees)
Excellence in Client Care
Excellence in Community Care & Social Responsibility
Excellence in Equity & Inclusion
Excellence in Support & Wellbeing
Team Awards
Litigation Team of the Year
Commercial Real Estate Team of the Year
Residential Property Team of the Year
In-House Legal Team of the Year
Criminal Defence Team of the Year
Excellence in Support Services
Family Law or Private Client Team of the Year
Marketing & Business Development Team of the Year
Individual Awards
Lifetime Achievement Award
Business Leadership Award
Lawyer of the Year
Paralegal of the Year
Rising Star of the Year
Advocate of the Year
Law Champion of the Year