Unsung hero named at Women & Diversity in Law awards

Geldards is proud to announce that one of its paralegals has won a prestigious law award.

Ranjit Kaur, an experienced paralegal in Geldards’ Family team, has won the ‘Unsung Hero’ award at the Women & Diversity in Law Awards.

The firm’s Family team were delighted to be shortlisted in three categories including DE&I Champion of the Year (Aysha Chouhdary), Race Equality or Faith Initiative of the Year (Sharia Law Service) and Unsung Hero (Ranjit Kaur).

The awards, which recognise exceptional achievements by women actively encouraging diversity and inclusion in the legal profession, were announced at a ceremony in London on 18th March.

Ranjit, who is based in the firm’s Derby offices, has spent the past two decades working in family law, starting her career as a legal secretary before taking on the role of paralegal.

She plays an integral role in Geldards Family team and takes the lead coordinating mediation sessions for clients seeking a harmonious resolution to family disputes without resorting to costly courtroom proceedings.

Fiona Apthorpe, head of family law at Geldards commented on the award: “Ranjit plays an essential role in our dedicated Family team and this award is thoroughly well-deserved!

“She is always looking for ways to improve the service we provide to our clients and her enthusiasm for progressing the diversity agenda within the firm is impressive.”

Passionate about supporting clients in the Indian community, Ranjit works collaboratively with external organisations to signpost clients to services specifically tailored to meet sensitive cultural needs.

Ranjit understands the unique cultural challenges faced by Asian clients when navigating the complexities of divorce and separation. Her understanding of Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu help to overcome barriers for clients who trust her to deal with sensitive matters.

Ranjit added: “I am so honoured and overwhelmed to have been awarded ‘Unsung Hero’ at the Women and Diversity in Law Awards. I can’t believe I have won and am still on Cloud Nine!

“As a divorced mum of three I understand first-hand the struggles faced by Asian women when navigating divorce and family issues. My aim is to help women through one of the most difficult and trying times in their lives, not only through the legal process but also by directing them to support networks that are available.”

The Women and Diversity in Law ‘Unsung Hero’ award recognises the contribution being made to the legal profession by women who are making a special, but unsung, contribution to their organisation.

The awards are judged by an independent panel of industry experts committed to diversity, equality and inclusion.