Christian Weaver wins Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Award

13 July 2023

Christian Weaver receives the Legal Aid Newcomer of the Year Award at the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year ceremony

Christian Weaver was named Legal Aid Newcomer of the Year 2023 at the Legal Aid Lawyer Awards ceremony in London last night.

Christian was recognised for his tireless efforts representing bereaved families at inquest and promoting public legal education and access to justice.

Christian’s secured a lot of praise and media attention for his work representing the family of Awaab Ishak at inquest and the subsequent campaign he organised, alongside Awaab’s family, Kelly Darlington of Farleys Solicitors LLP, the Manchester Evening News and Shelter, to ensure ‘Awaab’s Law’ is included in legislation.

Garden Court North Chambers is incredibly proud of the work Christian does. It exemplifies our founding ethos of a strong commitment to publicly funded work and offering representation to those disadvantaged by discrimination and inequality, to challenging the state and to fight for justice.

After receiving the award Christian, said:

“I’m deeply honoured to have been awarded ‘Legal Aid Newcomer of the Year’ at the 2023 Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year awards.

“Thank you to everyone who has continually supported me throughout my journey and who supported my nomination for this award. Your encouragement and belief in my work has been invaluable and I’m sincerely grateful for each and every one of you.

“I would also like to acknowledge and congratulate the exceptional nominees: Ife Thompson, Danielle Manson and Josie Hicklin. It was a true privilege to be nominated alongside such remarkable individuals who are making a profound impact through their work. Learning about their incredible contributions in legal aid is inspiring.

“Legal aid plays an indispensable role in ensuring equal access to justice for all members of society. It’s a vital lifeline that provides legal assistance to those who may otherwise face insurmountable barriers due to financial limitations. Every day, we witness the strength and resilience of our clients, which serves as a constant reminder of the importance and impact of our collective efforts.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to Legal Aid Practitioners Group (LAPG) for organising this brilliant event. The dedication and hard work that undoubtedly goes on behind the scenes is truly appreciated.

“Finally, I would like to thank all my colleagues at Garden Court North Chambers. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such talented professionals who have played a significant role in shaping my career. I wish also to take a moment to honour the late Mark George KC, Head of Chambers at Garden Court North when I joined. His support, both professionally and personally, has been instrumental in my growth.”

Read about Christian’s nomination for the award.

Christian continues the success of the GCN Inquests and Inquiries team in winning the award, as he follows Ciara Bartlam who secured the prize in 2022.

 

Chambers news

Chambers news

Dean Johnstone sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 17 years and six months after pleading guilty to murder

Dean Johnstone was sentenced to 17 years and six months’ imprisonment in Manchester Crown Court for the murder of Ms Karen Youdell.

Chambers news

Alexa Thompson secures possession claim dismissal to keep single mother and children in their home

Alexa Thompson secured the dismissal of a possession claim brought against her client in the Manchester Civil Justice Centre.

Chambers news

Rosalind Burgin and Bethany Currie’s clients acquitted at trial following protest action

Garden Court North’s Rosalind Burgin and Bethany Currie have secured acquittals for three protest defendants.

Chambers news

Ministry of Housing’s draft guidance on Awaab’s Law an “important and long-overdue step towards protecting tenants”

The UK Government’s Ministry of Housing published draft guidance for social landlords on Awaab’s Law, due to come into force in October 2025.

Sign up to our mailing list

Our mailing list is dedicated to professionals with an interest in our work.

Sign up