Verdict of excellence in the Eternal City

The European Legal Awards arrive in Rome to celebrate a gala that honours the work and dedication of Europe’s legal professionals.

The 6th edition of the European Legal Awards was held on 26 November in a setting as imposing as it was symbolic: the Hotel Westin Excelsior in Rome, a historic landmark which, for the first time, hosted awards that had previously been held in other major European cities such as Paris or Budapest. The change of venue already conveyed a clear message: this edition sought to leave a different mark, to broaden horizons and to place legal excellence at the cultural, political and symbolic heart of Europe.

A city that breathes history and justice

The choice of Rome was no coincidence. The Italian capital, cradle of some of the most influential legal principles of the Western world, welcomed the award winners with the majesty of its avenues, the solemnity of its palaces and the Mediterranean warmth that envelops every corner. Attendees, from law firms and chambers across Europe, arrived in the city with the feeling that they were entering a space where tradition and modernity embrace.

The atmosphere was ideal for a gala that aimed to celebrate European legal talent, not only as individual recognition, but also as a meeting point for cultures, areas of specialisation and visions for the future of law.

A welcome cocktail for connection and exchange

The welcome cocktail, held in one of the Westin Excelsior’s main reception rooms, opened the evening in an atmosphere marked by distinction and networking. Amid lively conversations, the photocall cameras captured the excitement and pride of those attending. Lawyers, consultants, legal professionals, specialists and representatives from various legal companies mingled in a relaxed setting where the exchange of ideas flowed naturally.

Elegance reigned in the room, further enhanced by the collaboration with designer Félix Ramiro, who dressed the awards’ management in elegant dinner jackets from his collection. His contribution added an extra touch of distinction to the gala, reminding guests that aesthetics and professionalism can coexist in harmony at an event where every detail is carefully considered.

A dynamic gala

As the early evening drew on, guests were guided to the main ballroom, where the award ceremony would take place. The staging set the scene for a night of emotion and excellence.

The gala was hosted by Sonia Fernández and Andrés López, a duo who brought dynamism, warmth and professionalism. With an approachable style, they guided the audience through the different stages of the event with ease and a perfect balance between formality and lightness.

The opening address was delivered by the Director of the Awards, Antonio Queijeiro, whose speech set the tone for the evening. He spoke about the evolution of law in an ever-changing world, the commitment of the awarded professionals and the mission of the European Legal Awards as a platform for recognition, inspiration and international projection. He also highlighted the added value of holding this edition in Rome: “celebrating these Awards in Rome is no coincidence. This city, the cradle of law and Western legal thought, reminds us that Europe was built upon principles of order, dialogue and civilisation. Here were born the legal foundations that still inspire our institutions, our commerce, our coexistence and our understanding of justice. Rome teaches us that greatness is achieved through clear rules, responsibility and respect for society. That is why gathering in this eternal city is also a tribute to the values that sustain Europe and to those who, like you, work every day to promote them,” Queijeiro emphasised.

The awards ceremony: recognition and shared emotion

The presentation of awards was a parade of inspiring careers and projects. Each step onto the stage was charged with emotion. Many of the award winners highlighted in their speeches the value of teamwork, the importance of clients who place their trust in them and the motivation that comes from receiving international recognition. What was most frequently expressed, both privately and publicly, was a sense of shared pride: these awards not only elevate individual careers, but also celebrate the collective contribution to strengthening the European legal landscape.

A total of 15 awards were presented. The award in the Second Chance Law category went to lawyer María Isabel Miranda, who retained the title for the second consecutive year, standing out for her commitment to offering effective solutions for the economic reorganisation of individuals and self-employed professionals. In the Media and Entertainment Law category, the title was also renewed by Olivia O’Kane, partner at British law firm Lewis Silkin, recognised for her strong defence of freedom of expression and the legal protection of creators and media organisations. The Spanish firm Preico Jurídicos was awarded in Consumer Law for its work in the comprehensive defence of consumers and users, while Irish lawyer David O’Malley was recognised for his rigour and sensitivity in cases of medical malpractice. The award in Banking Law went to Serrano Abogados, distinguished for their expertise in litigation and advisory work against abuses by financial institutions. The Swiss firm Kiavila Avocats took the trophy in Technology Law for its innovative approach to legal protection in the face of emerging technological challenges, and London-based lawyer Deborah Casale, Regional Head at Irwin Mitchell, received the award in Employment Law. In the Real Estate Law category, the award went to Sky Law Bufete de Abogados, recognised for their excellence in transactions and disputes relating to real estate. In Immigration Law, the distinction was awarded to QVE, a firm founded by Fernanda Sierra and based on her own experience as an immigrant, now helping clients with expert advice on migration processes and international residency. Arnaut Group received the award in Tax Law, standing out for its strategic advice in tax planning and compliance. In Family Law, the award went to James Stewart, recognised for his humane and professional approach to resolving family disputes. AMG Lawyers was awarded in the Criminal Law category, excelling in its robust defence and technical expertise in highly complex criminal proceedings. The Italian firm Studio Legale Ruo Piazzoni won the award in Child Law, recognised for its commitment to the legal protection and wellbeing of minors. Meanwhile, Spanish lawyer Concepción Vidaurre Mauleón received the European Legal Award 2025 for Professional Career, an honour that pays tribute to a career marked by excellence, ethics and dedication to public service.

The presence of colleagues from different countries such as England, Ireland, Switzerland, Italy and Spain reinforced this impression. Legal, cultural and professional diversity became the true protagonist of the evening.
After receiving their awards, the winners were guided to the press set installed by the organisation, where they shared their first impressions in interviews that will be available on El Suplemento’s website and YouTube channel.

Closing and gala dinner

The gala was closed by Pablo Suñer, Managing Director of the Professional and Business Excellence Institute which, together with El Suplemento, organised the event. In his closing speech, he thanked all attendees for their participation and constructive spirit and highlighted the work of the team that made this sixth edition possible. “Excellence in law is never an individual effort. That is why these awards are also dedicated to those who have supported you every step of the way,” Suñer emphasised. He also underlined the importance of keeping an eye on the future: how law will continue to adapt, transform and contribute to social wellbeing and business development.

After the closing, guests enjoyed a gala dinner, a moment that combined Italian cuisine, a festive atmosphere and relaxed conversation. For many, it was the perfect opportunity to deepen new alliances, share experiences and celebrate the successes of the night.

Music, emotion and a diverse atmosphere

The end of the awards ceremony was particularly moving when the Director of the Awards, Antonio Queijeiro, returned to the stage to once again dedicate a few heartfelt words to the honoured professionals.

But the gala was not only a sequence of emotional speeches; another of the event’s distinctive features was its commitment to music and diversity of styles. The welcome cocktail was accompanied by artist Lou 7 Go, whose performance blended sensitivity with his distinctive, intimate interpretation of popular songs such as ‘Creep’ by Prince, captivating the audience. His presence added an alternative and vibrant touch to the gala.

For the opening of the gala, Italian singer Nunzia Giannotta delivered a performance filled with emotion, with a warm and powerful voice that drew admiration from those present. Her interpretation connected with the Italian essence of the evening, uniting tradition and modernity in a particularly memorable moment. At the end of the night, both artists took turns to create a grand finale, performing a medley of versions of well-known songs.

A final assessment: between excellence and emotion

The feelings shared among the award winners converged on one point: deep emotion at a recognition that transcends the individual. More than an award, the night in Rome was a meeting of professionals who believe in the importance of law as a tool for building fairer, more efficient and more humane societies.

Rome, with its eternal magnetism, proved the perfect host for this spirit. The 6th edition of the European Legal Awards 2025 was celebrated by the organisers as an overwhelming success, underlining that it was not only a night of recognition for the winners, but also a reaffirmation of Europe’s strong commitment to justice and freedom.