Top Tips for your Manchester Legal Awards nominations!
Are you preparing your nominations?
It’s time to shine the spotlight on you and your amazing team, but to ensure you craft an award-winning entry, don’t miss these essential top tips, direct from our judges!
1) Answer the question!
To avoid duplicating information, read the criteria carefully before you start. Address the question and avoid going off at a tangent.
2) Avoid cut and paste
You might’ve written entries for legal directories or other awards but it’s best to avoid copying and pasting. As award criteria vary, you need to ensure you meet the MLA’s criteria, not those of past award entries.
3) Evidence matters
Provide concrete examples to back up your claims, such as including figures and specific details that add credibility and enhance your entry.
4) I’m not crying, you’re crying!
The judges are human too, so don’t be afraid to engage them emotionally. They want to feel your enthusiasm and passion through your entry – that’s how you’ll stand out.
5) Sometimes the simplest answer is the right one
Don’t overcomplicate it. The judges are seeking brevity. Avoid jargon and use clear, concise language that gets to the point.
6) Different is good
No matter how small you think a facet of your entry might be, it could be the very thing which makes the biggest difference. Saying you provide a great service with a great team is expected but what makes you really stand out?
7) Stick to the rules
Pay attention to the 250-word count and remember that you will be automatically penalised if any of the statistics you’ve provided fall outside the qualifying period or region.
8) Seek feedback
Before you submit your entry, ask a colleague to proofread it on your behalf. A fresh set of eyes can spot typos, information duplication, and help identify areas for improvement.
So, there you have it. We hope the above helps. Don’t forget the deadline for entries is Friday 20th March 2026. Everything you need to know about the categories, deadlines, judging process and ceremony can be found on Manchester Legal Awards website.
Key dates
Entries are now open and the other key dates to mark in your diary are:
- 20 March: Entries close
- 5 May: Shortlist announced
- 12 June: Judging Day
- 2 July: Manchester Legal Awards Ceremony
- 3 July: Book the day off for recovery!
Other ways to get involved
There are limited sponsorship opportunities still available. See our packages here or email [email protected] for more information.
