Forsters Private Wealth sweeps up trio of awards at the STEP Private Client Awards 2023/24

The judges at the prestigious STEP Private Client Awards 2023/24 named Forsters as the winner of three awards, showcasing the firm’s Private Wealth team as a global leader in advice to international families and in the field of digital assets, while recognising the team’s leadership for its commitment to its people. The team was also shortlisted for Private Client Legal Team of the Year (large firm) and Family Business Advisory Practice of the Year.

The judges commended Forsters in each of the three winning categories:

• International Legal Team of the Year (large firm) - The judges described the winning entry as ‘simply excellent’. In an impressive field, Forsters stood out for its ability to attract and secure new clients, handle multi-jurisdictional projects effectively, and find innovative solutions; while the team’s governance work was recognised for its sensitivity to family dynamics. Overall, the team presented as the quintessential International Legal Team.
• Digital Assets Practice of the Year - Forsters was well known as being one of the first to advise on digital assets. It had continued to innovate to meet client needs and combine technical skill and knowledge with client focus and thoughtfulness. The judges commented on its commitment to developing the industry through leadership in best practices for crypto and collaboration with HMRC.
• Employer of the Year - Forsters had been carbon neutral since 2007. The leadership of the Private Wealth Team had a demonstrable commitment to employee well-being and open communication with associates through its Village Hall sessions. Twin teams of partners supported its junior lawyers through a mentor programme, and associates were involved in managing key client relationships.

The STEP Private Client Awards took place on 21 September 2023. The awards are regarded as the hallmark of quality within the industry, recognising and celebrating excellence among private client professionals. Attracting entries from across the globe, submissions are judged rigorously by an independent panel of experts made up of internationally renowned private client practitioners.

Head of Private Client, Xavier Nicholas, commented: "We are extremely proud to have been recognised by STEP for these three awards. They demonstrate our ceaseless commitment to our international client base, the entrepreneurial spirit of our partners in reaching into new practice areas, and our belief in looking after our team and supporting them to be the best lawyers in their field while feeling engaged in the business."