(L-R): Awards host David Mitchell, Hogan Lovells professional support lawyer Mark Crossley and awards judge James Blendis

Finalists: Barclays (highly commended), Dentons, LOD, RPC, Shoosmiths, Simmons & Simmons, Taylor Wessing

Hogan Lovells won this award after impressing judges with its Prism service, described by one judge as "something genuinely new that actually helps clients".

Prism is an online software programme designed as an early case assessment service for clients. It was developed by Hogan Lovells dispute resolution partner and global construction co-head John Gerszt.

The firm's submission for this award explained that Prism is able to provide an initial assessment of a case after one client meeting lasting two hours. A partner is able to take the client through various options designed to recommend a course of action, saving them from embarking on costly litigation or arbitration.

After assessing key case documents, Prism generates a note setting out the agreed scope of work, timetable, fee and immediate actions to be taken by the client and Hogan Lovells.

One client who had used the service gave it a glowing testimony, stating: "The early case assessment meant that my organisation had a broader, more encompassing view and I could determine an effective strategy. This ultimately resulted in a good settlement that more than met our expectations."

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