Blackhurst Budd has been shortlisted in the Lexcel Award for Excellence in Practice Management which recognises legal firms which operate to the highest degree meeting every industry standard expected by the Law Society.

The firm was only able to apply for the award as it has consistently received the Lexcel seal of approval from the Law Society each year since it was first awarded it in 2010.

Blackhurst Budd Managing Director Warren Spencer said the decision was taken to enter the awards because of this and the steps continually taken by the firm to ensure best practice is used for every instance of their business.

He said: “This really is a coup for Blackhurst Budd and everyone who works here as it represents a tremendous team effort.

“It is a great achievement to have Lexcel accreditation as it is because it is the official nod of approval from The Law Society that we are doing everything we possibly can to operate a highly professional legal business.

“We have continued to hold that accreditation for four years so to now be shortlisted in what are basically the Oscars of the legal world is fantastic.”

The awards shortlist is the latest accolade for Blackhurst Budd who earlier this year became the first legal firm on the Fylde Coast to receive Wills & Inheritance Quality Scheme accreditation. Previously it has achieved the Silver Investors in People Award and Conveyancing Quality Scheme accreditation.

To be shortlisted for the Law Society Awards Blackhurst Budd had to provide evidence of the steps it has taken to create a law firm which operates best practice in every area of its business ranging from Risk Management and improved client experience, to the creation of a Compliance Team and its increased work supporting the community through the sponsorship of local sports teams and Blackpool Operatic Society.

The finalists for the Awards, which represent firms in England and Wales, were selected by a panel of senior industry experts and range from small local practices and in-house teams to large City firms. In all there are 10 awards for firms and six for individuals.

Warren added: “Above all else we are incredibly honoured to have made this shortlist because we know we are up against some pretty impressive names from our profession so we will now look forward to a great awards ceremony.”

The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony at a London hotel in October.