Sparke Helmore Lawyers is proud to announce that Sydney-based Government Partner Karwan Eskerie was named Partner of the Year at the 2017 Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards, on the eve of its 135th anniversary last Friday night. The firm was also a finalist in Dispute Resolution, Workplace Relations and Employment, Intellectual Property and Government Team of the Year categories, and Business Development & Marketing Director Sharon Stockman was a finalist for Business Development Professional of the Year.

The 17th annual awards ceremony was held at The Star in Sydney, attended by more than 700 people celebrating innovative and high-performing teams and individuals in the legal industry.

Partner of the Year nominees were judged on their outstanding work, contribution to the growth and financial performance of their team and firm, how their leadership has shaped the culture and strategy of their practice group as well as their general client service during the 2016-2017 financial year.

"I'm very humbled by this award and grateful to the exceptional team of lawyers and support staff in our Government Group—I owe this recognition to their support as well as the support of our clients, who provide us with such fantastic work every day," said Karwan.

Sparke Helmore's National Managing Partner Phillip Salem said, "It's great to see Sparke Helmore people continuing to shine, especially in the 135th year following our founding by William Sparke. Their commitment to providing world-class service to our clients day-in and day-out is something that we're very proud of. Congratulations to Karwan and to our finalists for this well-deserved recognition."

The firm was also recognised for its contribution to the Hunter community at the Hunter Business Awards last week.

Above: Partner Karwan Eskerie at the awards night.