Award recognises MJC Law Practice Manager’s outstanding contribution to legal aid, leadership and access to justice.
MJC Law is delighted to announce that our Practice Manager, Helen Dunn, has been named Legal Aid Support Staffer of the Year at the 2026 Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards (LALYs).
Widely regarded as the most prestigious awards in the legal aid sector, the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards celebrate the exceptional individuals and organisations whose dedication, expertise and commitment help ensure access to justice for some of the most vulnerable members of society.
Helen received the award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to legal aid practice management, regulatory compliance and operational leadership. As Practice Manager at MJC Law, Helen plays a pivotal role in the firm’s day-to-day operations, overseeing regulatory compliance, Legal Aid Agency contract management, human resources, finance, governance and business operations. Working closely with the firm’s directors and staff, she is committed to ensuring MJC Law continues to deliver exceptional legal services whilst maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, compliance and client care.
With more than twenty years’ experience in the legal profession, Helen has dedicated much of her career to supporting firms operating within the legal aid sector. Alongside her role at MJC Law, she is Chair of Nottingham Law Society’s Education and Training Committee, a member of the Legal Aid Practitioners Group (LAPG) Advisory Committee and a member of Nottingham Law School’s Advisory Board, reflecting her commitment to supporting both the profession and the next generation of legal professionals.
Reflecting on receiving the award, Helen said:
“I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award. Legal aid exists to ensure that everyone has access to justice, regardless of their circumstances, and I feel privileged to play a part in supporting that mission.
This recognition belongs as much to the wonderful team at MJC Law as it does to me. Every member of our team works tirelessly to support our clients, and I am fortunate to work alongside such dedicated and talented colleagues every day.
I would also like to congratulate all of this year’s finalists and winners. It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many individuals whose passion, resilience and commitment continue to make such a positive difference to the legal aid sector and to the lives of the people we all serve.”
Lauren Castle, Solicitor and Director at MJC Law, said:
“Helen’s dedication to MJC Law, our clients and the wider legal aid community is exceptional. She leads with professionalism, integrity and genuine compassion, and this national recognition is thoroughly deserved.
Her expertise, leadership and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in the continued success of our firm. Helen consistently goes above and beyond to support our colleagues, our clients and the legal aid community, and we are incredibly proud to see her recognised on the national stage.”
This latest accolade follows Helen being shortlisted for the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards in 2024 and receiving Nottinghamshire Law Society’s Practice Manager of the Year Award in 2022, further reflecting her longstanding commitment to excellence within the legal profession.
Everyone at MJC Law extends their warmest congratulations to Helen on this outstanding achievement. Her award is a testament not only to her professionalism and leadership but also to the firm’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality legal aid services and ensuring access to justice for those who need it most.
We would also like to congratulate all of this year’s finalists and winners at the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards. Their dedication, resilience and commitment continue to strengthen the legal aid sector and make a lasting difference to individuals, families and communities across the country.
At MJC Law, we remain proud to stand alongside the legal aid community in protecting access to justice, championing excellence within the profession and supporting those who need legal representation most.
Photo courtesy of Rugfoot Photography:
