The largest employment law practice in the Bay of Plenty is a finalist in the Hays Employment Law Award category of the seventh annual New Zealand Law Awards.

It is the first time Sharp Tudhope Lawyers has been nominated and firm partner Mark Beech says the winners of the awards represent the top of the country's legal profession.

A key part of the judging process is a review of a firm's recent client appraisals of it.

Mark says Sharp Tudhope Lawyers excels in mediation and dispute resolution and works hard to make the process as stress-free as possible for its clients.

'And that is what's so satisfying about being named a finalist in this awards category.

'We've exceeded our clients' expectations and they have been happy with the outcome we have achieved for them.”

Five other legal firms from around New Zealand have been named as finalists in the Hays Employment Law Award category alongside Sharp Tudhope Lawyers.

The winner must have demonstrated excellence in client service and be deemed to have specialist expertise in advising on employment law issues.

'We are very proud to have made it through to the finals,” says Mark.

'We have built our reputation on excellent service and helping people successfully resolve their employment law issues.

'On behalf of Sharp Tudhope Lawyers I would like to sincerely thank all of our clients, both local and national, for their fantastic support.”

The awards presentation is tonight in Auckland.