A York solicitors’ firm is celebrating after being named the best in its field in Yorkshire by its peers.

Howard & Byrne, of Lawrence Street, won the Yorkshire Legal Awards Criminal Law.

Paul Singh, who led the judging panel of leading lawyers and representatives of Yorkshire commerce, singled out the “wealth of testimonials showing how hard they had worked for all their clients” and praised all the nominees for their “dedication to the defence of people’s liberties.”

Howard & Byrne represents many defendants before York and North Yorkshire courts, as well as in major national cases and is regularly involved in international cases.

A statement from the firm said: “We are committed to providing quality advice to everyone, and everyone at the firm works hard for their clients. To be recognised as the leading firm across Yorkshire is a reflection of the reputation Howard & Byrne has for delivering first class criminal defence locally, nationally and internationally.”

More than 900 legal professionals and dignitaries from throughout Yorkshire attended the Yorkshire Legal Awards at Leeds Royal Armouries where BBC Sports presenter Mike Bushell and Mark Dugdale, editor of sponsors Yorkshire Legal News presented the trophies.