CSR Programme of the Year

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HOGAN LOVELLS - Crispin Rapinet; Yasmin Waljee

Hogan Lovells has long led the way with its CSR work and this year is no exception. The firm created an innovative scheme that encourages law firms to release their dormant client funds and donate them to the Access to Justice Foundation (AJF). So far the Attorney General and Lord Chief Justice have both backed the scheme that has already freed up £76,000 for use by AJF.

 

 

In recognition of either a single law firm or chambers or a wider association of law firms, this award will recognise those that have made the strongest overall contribution to corporate social responsibility. Reference can be made to a range of areas, particularly pro bono, but also community activities, environmental and workplace initiatives (such as those promoting greater diversity), and responsible client selection.

 

Hogan Lovells has long led the way with its CSR work and this year is no exception. The firm created an innovative scheme that encourages law firms to release their dormant client funds and donate them to the Access to Justice Foundation (AJF). So far the Attorney General and Lord Chief Justice have both backed the scheme that has already freed up £76,000 for use by AJF.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

FRESHFIELDS BRUCKHAUS DERINGER
Paul Yates

Since 2009 Freshfields has been advising one of the UK’s largest charities, Save The Children, on its global restructuring, including drafting new governance structures, contracts for its 29 international member groups and racking up some £2.5m worth of billable hours on the project.

HERBERT SMITH
Richard Brophy

Herbert Smith underlined its pioneering CSR credentials this year by committing to a five-year scholarship scheme that will provide experience, a bursary for higher education and mentoring to five young people a year. The firm hopes to create a network of young people from diverse and underprivileged backgrounds with the skills to succeed in professional services firms.

LINKLATERS/WEIL, GOTSHAL & MANGES
Mark Nuttall (Linklaters); James Cole (Weil Gotshal)

Linklaters and Weil, Gotshal & Manges used their capital markets expertise to great effect this year, advising the charity Scope on a bond programme. Thanks to their pro bono work, Scope now has access to much-needed complementary funding of up to £20m from the capital markets.

OLSWANG
Linda Zell

Olswang has shown its firm-wide commitment to CSR by allowing its staff six days a year to participate in volunteering. Currently over 70% of staff do some volunteer work for charities such as Coram and local schools like the Haverstock School in Camden.

THOMAS EGGAR
Tony Edwards

Thomas Eggar has been working with the Prince’s Trust, providing work experience and raising funds to reduce the number of disadvantaged young people facing unemployment. The 150-lawyer firm is also offering free legal advice to young people who are starting their own business.