Wake Smith’s litigator Sophie Kerry has been shortlisted in Insider’s Yorkshire Young Professionals Awards 2026.
The annual event celebrates young business talent aged 35 and under across the region giving up-and-coming professionals the chance to shine.
Approachable associate litigator Sophie joined Wake Smith Solicitors’ litigation and dispute resolution team four years ago bringing her expertise, vibrancy and a proactive approach to understanding clients needs and securing results.
Her impressive track record in company/individual disputes and litigation, forging strong, trusted client relationships during difficult times with sensitive contractual and business disputes, saw her promoted to associate last May, and also win the UK200 Group’s David Turnbull Award for dedication as UK200 Group Ambassador maximising Wake Smith’s membership.
Her work away from her day to day role has seen her help found, and build, Wake Smith Link, a junior professionals group collaborating socially, sharing learning journeys and broadening professional networks via fun, interactive events.
She plays a key role on internal committees driving improvements, including Charity Board and Well-Being Committee.
Liz Shaw, co-managing director, Wake Smith Solicitors and head of the litigtaion and dispute resolution team, said: “Congratulations to Sophie on the shortlisting.
“She possesses a combination of strong communication skills, legal knowledge, empathy, resilience, and ethical integrity, allowing her to effectively advocate for her clients. She understands working collaboratively, encouraging teamwork and driving forward the business.
“She is also an enthusiastic team player for the firm in organising events and making it a better place to work. She is an extremely valued member of the team.”
The Yorkshire Young Professionals Awards 2026 takes place on June 10 at the Headingley Stadium, Leeds.
The awards recognise outstanding talent in categories such as law, accountancy, IT/Tech, finance, PR, property and construction, recruitment/HR, engineering and manufacturing/manufacturing, education and training, health and medicine and retail/hospitality.
You can contact Sophie Kerry on litigation matters online here, or call Wake Smith Solicitors on 0114 266 6660