WINN Solicitors is in line to scoop a clutch of accolades at the national Modern Law awards with the Newcastle-based firm shortlisted in four categories.

The firm - competing in more categories than any other finalist – is the region’s only representative at this year’s awards which celebrates excellence in the legal sector.

Head of litigation, Ghazala Bashey is in line to be named Lawyer of the Year with Winn Solicitors also aiming to triumph in the ABS of the Year (more than 100 employees), Deal of the Year and Law Firm of the Year categories.

Ms Bashey, from Newcastle, was instrumental in the launch of Winn Solicitors and has played a significant role in the growth of the firm which now operates as part of the Winn group, following a successful investment by JZ International and Souter investments last year. The firm employs 300 people and generated turnover of £38m last year, £17.2 of which related to legal services, a 15.5 per cent growth from the previous financial year. The Group is on track to generate turnover of £45m in its current financial year, a further growth of 18.4 per cent.

Ms Bashey said; “To have your work recognised as being amongst the best in the country is a huge honour. I am extremely pleased to be one of the finalists for the title as the competition in this category is very strong and so to have been shortlisted is a huge achievement. We place huge emphasis upon staff development and celebrating the efforts of our team and acknowledging their work through awards is a fantastic way to show appreciation.”

Managing director Jeff Winn said; “We are delighted to have been shortlisted in four categories which acknowledges the hard work and dedication that our highly professional team has displayed over the last 12 months. To have our efforts recognised on a national level, and to be competing for more titles than any other finalists, demonstrates the strong reputation that we have established within the industry.”

He added; “Ghazala is a highly respected member of our team and well regarded throughout the legal community in the region through her professionalism, expertise and commitment to staff development. Amongst other achievements, she was successful in arguing an important test case, the result of which has had a significant impact not only for the firm and our clients but for other firms in the sector.”

Now in their second year, the Eclipse Proclaim Modern Law Awards recognise talent and success in entrepreneurship, market development, business management and best practice in the modern legal services arena. A cross-industry panel of judges will decide the winners which will be announced at a glittering award ceremony at the London Hilton, Park Avenue on 15th October 2014.

Winn employs almost 300 people and is a specialist independent solicitors firm which operates a road accident service throughout the UK and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulatory Authority. It is also a member of the Motor Accident Solicitors Society (MASS), the Personal Injury Panel (PIP) and the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL).