The President's Medal distinguishes an individual at the pinnacle of their career who goes above and beyond to uphold the core values of our profession.

This award recognises an experienced legal practitioner who has shown an exceptionally high level of integrity, courage, and responsibility through their commitment to continual improvement of the profession and of themselves.

2024 Finalists

Kirsty Evans, Director Solicitor, Cheney Suthers Lawyers

Andrew Tiedt, Director, J Sutton Associates

Bronwyn Tolhurst, A/Head of Legal, Legal Services, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District

Assessment criteria

• The person is of high standing in the NSW legal profession.
• The person has made a personal and professional contribution which demonstrates achievements in one or more of the following areas:
  • improvement in community access to justice
  • improvement in NSW or national legal policy or legislation which delivers significant benefits to the NSW community
  • significant service or support to NSW solicitors
  • promotion or defence of the rule of law
  • improvements in the administration of justice in NSW.

Persons may self-nominate or be nominated by someone else.

Each nomination must be accompanied by documentation which:

• outlines relevant current and previous professional positions held by the nominee
• explicitly addresses the assessment criteria
• provides the names and contact details of at least two referees who may be asked to attest to the achievements on which the nomination is based.

Eligibility

Nominations for this award are open to individuals who:

• Are a NSW solicitor
• hold a current NSW practising certificate
• are members of The Law Society of NSW; and
• currently serving Law Society Councillors are excluded from nomination.

Judging Process

Nominations are assessed and the successful candidate determined by a selection panel comprising three people. It is chaired by the President of the Law Society.

The selection panel receives written applications and may elect to undertake interviews with candidates or to seek further information from those nominating the person.

Cross-checks are also made with Professional Standards to ensure that those being considered are fit and proper persons.

Key dates

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