Stephens Scown has been shortlisted in seven categories at the Devon and Somerset Law Society (DASLS) Awards, achieving recognition across every category entered and underlining the strength and breadth of its work.
The firm has been shortlisted for:
- Law Firm of the Year (£4m+ turnover)
- Employer of the Year
- Client Experience
- Sustainability Award
- Team of the Year – Family
- Solicitor of the Year – Benitia Knowles‑Wright
- Paralegal of the Year – Ed Bidder
The nominations follow a record‑breaking financial year and highlight Stephens Scown’s continued momentum, combining high‑quality legal work with a strong focus on people, client service and positive impact.
Shortlisting in the flagship Law Firm of the Year (£4m+ turnover) category recognises the scale and quality of work delivered across the firm and its growing standing within the South West legal market. Recognition for Employer of the Year builds on Stephens Scown’s inclusion in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work, reflecting its commitment to employee wellbeing, professional development and an inclusive, supportive working environment.
The Client Experience nomination highlights the firm’s sustained focus on client care, including the introduction of enhanced feedback systems and a culture of continuous improvement to ensure clients feel informed, supported and confident throughout the legal process.
In the Sustainability category, Stephens Scown was recognised for achieving operational Net Zero and for its wider commitment to responsible business practices and community engagement, reflecting the firm’s ethos of doing good and leaving a positive legacy for future generations as a B Corp™ Certified and employee-owned law firm.
The firm’s Family team was shortlisted for Team of the Year, with judges recognising a top‑ranked team independently recognised by both Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners. One of the largest teams in the region, it continues to deliver impactful work for clients in complex and sensitive matters.
Individual nominations recognise outstanding client‑focused work. Benitia Knowles‑Wright’s nomination for Solicitor of the Year reflects her work supporting clients while leading a firm‑wide initiative to strengthen support for neurodivergent clients. She has designed and implemented practical, compassionate adjustments that improve accessibility at every stage of the client journey.
Ed Bidder, shortlisted for Paralegal of the Year, was recognised for his work representing vulnerable parents in highly stressful and sensitive cases, including complex disputes with international elements. His work is highly regarded by clients, and he is regularly commended by CAFCASS professionals and counsel alike.
Speaking about the shortlisting, Managing Partner Richard Baker said:
“To be shortlisted in seven categories, spanning every area of the business, is a tremendous endorsement of the depth and consistency of our work. These nominations reflect the quality of service we provide to clients, the strength of our culture and the commitment of our people.
“I am particularly pleased to see Benitia and Ed recognised for the care and professionalism they bring to supporting clients through challenging circumstances. Taken together, these nominations demonstrate why Stephens Scown continues to be a great place to work and a trusted firm to do business with.”