For the defamation and reputation lawyer who has provided outstanding service during 2021–22. Attention will be paid to reported cases, innovations, quality of service and client feedback.
Lawyer of the Year – Reputation
Gideon Benaim
Simkins
The consequences of the recent backlash against so-called ‘Slapps’ (strategic lawsuits against public participation) are an issue ‘bigger than any other in this field – yet few have managed to take a stand on it’, noted one of the judges.
A notable exception to this has been Simkins partner Gideon Benaim, who has raised his head above the parapet to question the wisdom of what many (quietly) believe amounts to an ill-defined restriction of the right of an individual to defend their reputation. ‘It’s a genuine affront to constitutional principles, and the work Gideon has done on it is highly relevant,’ said one judge.
Paul Lunt – Brabners
‘It’s a slam-dunk winner… He’s made defamation sexy again,’ enthused our judges about Paul Lunt, the reputation lawyer at the epicentre of the most reported libel action of the year, defending Coleen Rooney after fellow ‘WAG’ Rebekah Vardy sued her for defamation in the case known as ‘Wagatha Christie’. The High Court ordered Vardy to pay 90 per cent of Rooney’s legal costs.
‘The trial was beautifully orchestrated and handled and the puppet master was Lunt,’ our judges added, noting he is instructed on a broad range of matters, often connected to sport and celebrity.
Paul Tweed
Gateley Tweed
