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.
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.
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 meet the following criteria:
Hold a current NSW practising certificate
Member of The Law Society of NSW;
Current serving Law Society Councillors are excluded from nomination.
Category open to self-nomination (supported by one or two referees).
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.
