Ashurst wins Innovation in Responsible Business at the FT Innovative Lawyers Awards APAC 2023
05 May 2023
Ashurst is recognised for its Pacific Islands Pro Bono Practice, as the winner of Innovation in Responsible Business at the Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Awards Asia Pacific 2023.
Commenting Sarah Morton-Ramwell, partner and global head of pro bono and social impact, said:
"At Ashurst, we are deeply committed to making a positive impact in communities. Our pro bono practice is an important part of this commitment, and we are the only law firm that has a Pacific Islands pro bono practice in order to address access to justice deserts within Pacific Islands countries. We believe that access to justice is a fundamental human right, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that everyone has access to the legal services they need."
Ashurst has a dedicated Pacific Islands pro bono team, as well as a longstanding office in Port Moresby, and our projects in the Pacific Islands focus on providing assistance in three key areas - gender rights; access to justice, and responding to climate, health and economic crises.
The FT Innovative Lawyers Report is one of the top legal rankings across the Asia Pacific, and its corresponding awards are widely regarded as the best researched in the market, celebrating the most innovative legal work from across the region.
The firm was also shortlisted for its Innovation in People & Strategy for the launch of the first joint venture between an international law firm and a Korean law firm in South Korea. Ashurst Korea JV significantly expands Ashurst's existing outbound Korean practice by building a local presence. Through the JV, Ashurst became the first global firm permitted to practice Korean law since the legal market opened in 2011.
Paul Jenkins, Global CEO, added:
"It is a privilege to be recognised in this way. Clients come to us for our expertise, but they also expect us to be innovative and forward-thinking in the solutions we offer. Ashurst Korea JV is a distinct offering and a differentiator in the market, a true one-stop service. It is a 'gamechanger' in the Korean legal market, with innovation at its very heart. We are thrilled to have been recognised by this prestigious award, which reflects the substantial contribution of all involved."
