Watkins Solicitors is proud to announce that Managing Partner Beverley Watkins has been shortlisted for the 2025 Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year (LALY) Awards in the category of Family Legal Aid, including Children’s Rights.

This national recognition reflects Beverley’s exceptional dedication to publicly funded legal work over a career spanning more than 30 years. Throughout her career, Beverley has been an advocate for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), often representing families in some of the most complex and emotionally charged cases. 

Her practice has long been defined by a client-centred ethos, supporting not just the legal outcomes, but the wellbeing of those she represents.

Former clients describe her as “simply outstanding,” “highly professional,” and “a lifeline during incredibly emotional and stressful times.” 

Under her leadership, Watkins Solicitors has built a national reputation for its work in education and family law, and Beverley continues to lead by example, mentoring junior solicitors, contributing to national dialogue on legal aid, and working on cases that help shape the future of children’s rights in the UK.

The winners of the LALY Awards will be announced at a ceremony in London on Thursday, 4 July 2025.

Speaking about the shortlisting, Beverley said:

“It came as a wonderful surprise to be shortlisted, there is no greater honour than being recognised by the LALYs. I have been incredibly fortunate to spend my professional life working as a legal aid lawyer in family and education law. 

Legal aid lawyers truly are the fourth emergency service, and it has been a privilege not only to serve families in crisis, but also to encourage and train the next generation of legal aid lawyers.”

For more information about our Legal Aid services in family and education law, or to speak with our team, please contact Watkins Solicitors on 0117 939 0350 or email info@watkinssolicitors.co.uk.