Pinsent Masons took home the top prize at the 2016 Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards.
The firm, whose Birmingham practice is based in Colmore Circus, was crowned law firm of the year (16 partners or more) at last night's award ceremony at the ICC.
It saw off strong competition from rivals Browne Jacobson, Gateley, Gowling WLG and Mills & Reeve to win the coveted title, marking a triumphant return to the awards after last being shortlisted in this category in 2010.
There were also law firm of the year titles for Worcestershire practice Thursfields (five to 15 partners) and Jewellery Quarter-based Neil Davies & Partners (up to four partners).
Birmingham Law Society introduced two new categories for 2016 to recognise corporate and in-house legal teams, taken home by Eversheds and Jaguar Land Rover respectively.
More than 560 people attended last night's ceremony which was hosted by writer, broadcaster and former MP Gyles Brandreth.
Mushtaq Khan, president of Birmingham Law Society, said: "This year's awards were extremely hard fought with all categories well represented, demonstrating the strength and depth of legal talent we have in the region.
"The Legal Awards is not just about rewarding legal excellence, it is also about recognising the valuable contribution lawyers, law firms and other legal professionals make to supporting the local economy and the communities they serve."
In addition to the 12 main categories, a lifetime achievement award was presented to Professor Bernardette Griffin for her contribution to the legal profession over the past 30 years.
A qualified solicitor, she has spent the majority of her career working as an academic, having worked at the University of Wolverhampton and in 2001 was appointed as the first regional director of the then College of Law.
Her voluntary roles for Birmingham Law Society include joint honorary secretary, director of learning and development and chairman of the education and training committee.
Mr Khan added: "Bernardette has been and continues to be a loyal servant of Birmingham Law Society.
"Her commitment and devotion to the legal profession during her long and distinguished career is exemplary and it is fitting that Bernardette's years of service are recognised."
The other winners from last night's ceremony were:
Trainee Solicitor of the Year
Liz Cooper, DWF
Assistant/Associate Solicitor of the Year
Kate Oliver, Gateley
Barrister of the Year
Vinesh Mandalia, No5 Chambers
Chartered Legal Executive of the Year
Andrew Verlander, FBC Manby Bowdler
Paralegal of the Year
Jaspreet Atwal, Anthony Collins Solicitors
Partner of the Year
Inez Brown, Harrison Clark Rickerbys
Corporate Social Responsibility/Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year
Greg Lowson, Pinsent Masons
