Charles Russell Speechlys is shortlisted for Team of the Year: Legal Transformation at The Lawyer Awards 2026

Charles Russell Speechlys today announces that it has been shortlisted for Team of the Year: Legal Transformation at The Lawyer Awards 2026.  

The Lawyer Awards, widely regarded as one of the most respected events in the legal calendar, celebrates outstanding achievements across the legal sector. For over two decades, the awards have recognised law firms, barristers’ chambers, in-house departments and individuals for their exceptional performance and impact across diverse areas.

In 2024, the Firm embarked on a strategic initiative to enhance its legal operations capabilities by building out the Legal Technology team and adding process improvement and legal project management functions to redefine service delivery.  Recognition in the shortlist reflects the work of a legal technology transformation project, led by the Legal Technology team, with 11 distinct business services teams delivering a complex transition within a tight timeframe.

Tessa Bartley, Head of Legal Technology, comments: 

I’m really pleased we’ve received recognition for such a strong cross team collaboration. This reflects the team’s hard work and our continued focus on optimising firm workflows for efficient automation of service delivery. Beyond the technical migration, what sets this project apart is the speed, collaboration and innovative thinking involved, transforming a potential operational risk into a strategic opportunity.

Lesley O’Leary, Chief Operating Officer, says: 

Our inclusion in the shortlist is an excellent achievement and well-deserved recognition of the team’s impressive operational achievements.

The success of this project reflects the strength of our Business Services team and the collaborative way we work. It is a clear example of how we operate as a business. Well done to everyone involved, and congratulations to our fellow short listers.

The shortlists reflect the work undertaken across Business Services. Teams involved: Legal Technology, Knowledge, IT Applications, Procurement, Information Security, the Project Management Office (PMO), Finance Systems, Risk and Compliance, Internal Client Services, IT Training, and Communications and Corporate Affairs.

The full shortlist is available to view here. 

The category winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony, which takes place on Tuesday 16th June at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.