Porter Dodson Partner, Julia Perrins, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for services to legal practice at the recent Devon and Somerset Law Society (DASLS) Awards.

The DASLS annual awards dinner which aims to celebrate and recognise the achievements of those in the legal profession, was attended by over 500 local experts, and took place on Thursday 23^rd June at the beautiful Great Hall at Exeter University, Following a dinner, guests were entertained by the inspiring Barrister Shaun Wallace best known in his role as a Chaser in the TV show The Chase.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Julia, aims to recognise ‘an individual who, in the opinion of the judges, has made an exceptional contribution to the reputation of solicitors during their career as a solicitor in Devon and Somerset. Candidates will be an exemplar of the legal profession having demonstrated high standards of integrity in their endeavours’ - a statement which Julia embodies.

Julia’s dedication to the legal profession in the South West is extraordinary, spanning almost 40 years, making her a very worthy recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Julia was admitted as a solicitor in December 1984, becoming a Partner at then Dodson Harding in 1989, at the time being the only female partner in the firm. Julia played a key role in the merger of Dodson Harding with Porter, Bartlett & Mayo, resulting in Porter Dodson LLP as it is known today, a decision that guaranteed the future success and growth of the firm. Julia has been a strong advocate for equality in the partnership and was elected as Chair, a role to which she has now been elected on two successive rotations.

Porter Dodson’s Managing Partner, Kate James, commented, “We were all so delighted and it really couldn’t have gone to anyone else – Julia’s contribution to this firm and indeed legal practice is extraordinary and to see this recognised was a real honour. Enormous congratulations Julia – we are so proud of all you have achieved." 

Julia is a trained mediator and collaborative lawyer and an active member of the Somerset Collaborative Law Group. Julia was also a founder member of the Somerset Branch of Resolution. She has been recognised in Legal 500 as providing ‘excellent advice and a sympathetic and understanding approach’. Julia continues to support the firm as Head of the Family Law Team in Taunton, specialising in divorce and the resolution of financial matters and has an enviable reputation across the region.

Commenting on her achievement, Julia said, “It is a wonderful surprise to receive this award. I am truly honoured and I would like to thank all my Porter Dodson colleagues, both past and present, for all their help, guidance, support and kindness over the last 39 years.”

Porter Dodson was shortlisted for four awards in total including individuals, Michelle Wilson for Leader of the Year, and Robert Coppard from Chartered Legal Executive of the Year. In addition, the Private Client Team was nominated for the Team of the Year.