This award recognises excellence amongst rural and regional practitioners, awarded to an individual displaying excellence, innovation and leadership in their field and community. This person is committed to service of their community and goes above and beyond to ensure access to justice in regional and rural NSW.

2024 Finalists

Dannielle Ford, Director Solicitor, Cheney Suthers

Anneka Frayne, Principal Solicitor, Stacks Law Firm, Tamworth

Jennifer Spear, Senior Associate, Duffy Elliott Lawyers

Assessment Criteria

• Where has the nominee has gone above and beyond to ensure access to justice for residents in rural and regional areas, and how this commitment has positively impacted their community. (50 per cent)
• How has the nominee's innovative approach to legal practice or community service made a significant difference in the lives of those they serve. (25 per cent)
• How has the nominee actively engaged with the community and local organisations to address legal needs and promote access to justice, fostering a culture of service and support in rural and regional areas. (25 per cent)

Eligibility

Nominations for this award are open to individuals who:

• are NSW solicitor practicing law in a rural or regional area; and
• hold a current NSW practising certificate; and
• are members of The Law Society of NSW

Judging Panel

This award will be judged by the Law Society of NSW Rural Issues Committee.

Key dates

• Nominations open Monday 2 September
• Nominations close Tuesday 15 October
• Finalists Friday 1 November
• Awards ceremony Friday 6 December

Guides

• Guide for nominees
• Judging methodology