University’s free Legal Advice Centre shortlisted for prestigious legal award

The University of Bolton has been shortlisted for a prestigious Law Society Award, the highest accolade for law firms in England and Wales.

The University’s free Legal Advice Centre is nominated in the Excellence in Pro Bono category and is the only university to feature.

The Legal Advice Centre, launched in September 2019, is the brainchild of the University’s Lecturer in Law and qualified Solicitor Advocate Ian Bowden.

It has dealt with hundreds of cases from people in the Bolton community and has operated throughout the pandemic remotely, with the students supported by University lecturers.

Ian said: “I am delighted that we have made the shortlist and are the only University in England and Wales to do so.

“Our nomination focussed on the work that we have done across the University, as well as the work completed by our students in conjunction with the local law society.

“It has truly been a team effort and it is great to have some recognition for this.”

Law Society of England and Wales president I. Stephanie Boyce said: “Congratulations to all those who have been shortlisted.

“After an extraordinary year, it has never been more important to celebrate the outstanding work of our profession.

“As the country emerges from the pandemic, solicitors will be there every step of the way to help people and businesses get back on their and ensure access to justice and the rule of law.”

Winners will be announced in an online ceremony on 7 October.

An online portal, where members of the public can register their legal enquiry with the University of Bolton’s Legal Advice Centre can be found at www.bolton.ac.uk/legal-advice-centre/