18/06/2026
Celebrating Excellence at the Worcestershire Law Society Legal Awards 2026
Each year, the Worcestershire legal community comes together to celebrate the talent, dedication and achievements of legal professionals across the county at the Worcestershire Law Society Legal Awards.
Established in 1841, the Worcestershire Law Society exists to unite, promote and support local lawyers while serving the wider Worcestershire community. Through excellent CPD training, representation of members' interests and a varied programme of social events, the Society continues to play a vital role in supporting the legal profession throughout the county.
The annual Legal Awards have become a much-anticipated fixture in the legal calendar, recognising outstanding individuals whose hard work, commitment and professionalism make a real difference to clients, colleagues and the wider profession.
This year, we are incredibly proud that Bradley Haynes Law received ten nominations, with seven team members progressing to the finalist stage.
Junior Solicitor of the Year
Leah Lewis
Leah has been with Bradley Haynes Law for two and a half years and, during that time, has worked tirelessly to help develop and strengthen our Private Client offering. Through her expertise, professionalism and client-focused approach, she has built a strong reputation amongst professional contacts who regularly entrust us with referrals.
Beyond her legal work, Leah is deeply committed to supporting the local community. She runs a monthly pro bono clinic at the Citizens Advice Centre in Malvern, providing advice on Wills and Probate matters, and serves as Vice Chair of the Worcestershire Junior Lawyers Division. Her dedication to both clients and the profession makes her a truly deserving finalist.
Haranjit Singh Kalket
Having qualified just over a year ago, Haranjit's achievements in such a short period have been remarkable. He has already been promoted to Associate Solicitor and, last month, was Highly Commended at the The Conveyancing Awards
To receive national recognition so early in a legal career is a significant accomplishment, although it comes as no surprise to those who work alongside him. Haranjit consistently receives exceptional client feedback and demonstrates a level of professionalism, technical ability and commitment well beyond his years of qualification.
Legal Executive of the Year
Helena Palomino
Helena has been a valued member of Bradley Haynes Law for six years and is unwavering in her commitment to delivering exemplary client service.
Her methodical and meticulous approach ensures clients receive the highest standard of advice and care. As a result, she enjoys a wealth of repeat business and referrals, with many long-standing clients regularly recommending her services. Helena's professionalism, attention to detail and dedication have helped her build trusted relationships with clients who continue to return to her time and again.
Beyond her legal expertise, Helena is a positive and supportive presence within the firm. She is always willing to encourage colleagues, support trainees and celebrate the achievements of others. Whether attending team celebrations, supporting our charity initiatives or offering guidance to colleagues, Helena consistently contributes to the positive culture that makes Bradley Haynes Law such a great place to work.
She is a trusted colleague, valued team member and a fantastic ambassador for the firm.
Leigh Wills
Leigh's journey is one of determination, resilience and achievement.
Starting from humble beginnings, Leigh has progressed to become a Board Director at Bradley Haynes Law. Her route to qualification was far from straightforward. She studied in her spare time while working full-time and helping to lead a rapidly growing team.
Along the way, she navigated the challenges of significant SDLT changes, a hospital stay with Covid, the loss of her grandmother and even a serious hand injury. What was intended to be a four-year course became a five-year journey, but her perseverance never wavered.
In February 2025, Leigh sat her final examination and achieved her highest score. On 14 July 2025, she officially qualified as a Licensed Conveyancer.
We are immensely proud of everything Leigh has achieved and the dedication that she shows.
Paralegal of the Year
Niamh Richards
Niamh joined Bradley Haynes Law in 2025 and immediately made a positive impact.
She brought with her a wealth of legal knowledge, but equally important is the warmth, empathy and kindness she demonstrates every day. Clients, referrers and colleagues alike have recognised her approachable and supportive nature.
Whether offering words of encouragement during busy periods, organising charity bake sales for the local community or recently undertaking the Mental Health First Aid at Work course to better support colleagues, Niamh consistently goes above and beyond for those around her.
Legal Secretary of the Year
Julie Lawton
Julie is calm, professional and one of the most approachable people you could hope to work alongside.
Working within our Commercial Property team, Julie expertly balances the differing demands, priorities and working styles of three principals. She does so with energy, positivity and determination, even on the busiest of days.
Her support extends well beyond her immediate team. Whether assisting colleagues across departments, helping organise team lunches or supporting charitable initiatives, Julie can always be relied upon to contribute with enthusiasm, good humour and unwavering commitment.
Employee of the Year
Julie Barnes
Last, but certainly not least, is our receptionist and all-round go-to person, Julie Barnes.
Julie is hugely valued across the firm and consistently goes above and beyond to support everyone who walks through our doors, whether clients, visitors or colleagues.
One colleague recently commented that Julie was so polite, professional and welcoming that she was "the icing on the cake" of their transaction. It is a sentiment shared by many.
Julie greets every client with warmth and professionalism, helping to start their journey with us on exactly the right note. She willingly supports colleagues with an endless variety of tasks and requests and is noticeably missed whenever she takes annual leave. Quite simply, she brings energy, positivity and heart to the firm every day.
Recognition Beyond the Finalists
While we are delighted to celebrate our seven finalists, we would also like to recognise the three members of our team who were nominated but did not progress to the final stage this year.
Please know that your contribution is seen, appreciated and valued. The fact that your colleagues chose to nominate you reflects the respect they have for the work you do and the difference you make every day. That recognition alone is something to be proud of.
Looking Ahead
We would like to congratulate all of our finalists and wish them the very best of luck on awards night.
We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you and look forward to celebrating alongside our colleagues from across the Worcestershire legal community. Whatever the outcome, your achievements reflect the values, dedication and excellence that make our profession so special.
Good luck to all the finalists.
