Stephen Keogh

The Financial Times Innovative Lawyer Report 2025, which profiles the 50 most innovative law firms in Europe, placed William Fry as the highest-ranking Irish firm, recognising its standout achievements in both legal expertise and the business of law.

In addition to its ranking in the report, William Fry was shortlisted in four awards categories at the FT Innovative Lawyer Awards Europe Awards ceremony, held last night at the Natural History Museum in London.

The event brought together over 500 legal professionals from around Europe to celebrate excellence and innovation in the legal sector.

The awards shortlisted include:

• Innovative Lawyers in Restructuring (Home for Life) – for advising on a complex refinancing that enabled Home for Life to expand its support for distressed homeowners under the Mortgage to Rent Scheme, a project led by Lyn Brennan, partner in the firm’s banking and finance team
• Innovative Practitioner – for Dr Barry Scannell, partner in the firm’s technology group, whose work in emerging tech regulation and AI governance has positioned him as a thought leader in the field
• Innovative Lawyers in Unlocking Capital – for advising on the Legal & General Energy Transition Commodities UCITS ETF initiative, a project led by the firm’s asset management and investment funds team
• Most Innovative Law Firm in Europe – recognising the firm’s overall commitment to innovation and excellence

The FT Innovative Lawyers Awards are among the most respected accolades in the legal industry, recognising firms and individuals who are shaping the future of law through creativity, forward-thinking solutions and impact.

Stephen Keogh, managing partner at William Fry, said: “We are delighted once again to be ranked the most innovative law firm in Ireland by the Financial Times.

“At William Fry, innovation is a core value. We consistently seek out new and better ways to work with and support our clients.

“This award is a powerful endorsement of the creativity, collaboration and forward-thinking mindset of our people, and of our commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes through fresh, strategic thinking.”