Double Shortlisting for Appleby at STEP Private Client Awards 2026
Shortlisting spans both firm-wide excellence and individual achievement, with recognition for the Private Client team and Associate Jackson Messer.
Appleby is delighted to have been shortlisted in two categories at the STEP Private Client Awards 2026.
The firm has been recognised in the Private Client Legal Team of the Year (Midsize Firm) category, and Associate Jackson Messer has been shortlisted for Rising Star Legal.
This year’s awards attracted a significant number of entries, with 374 submissions from 26 countries, underscoring the strength and depth of competition. Being shortlisted in this environment is a notable achievement.
The STEP Private Client Awards are widely regarded as the hallmark of quality within the private client industry, recognising excellence across private client lawyers, accountants, bankers, trust managers and financial advisors globally. All entries undergo a rigorous judging process, with up to five finalists selected in each category.
Commenting on the shortlisting, Carlos de Serpa Pimentel, Practice Group Head, Private Client & Trusts, said: “This recognition is a testament to the strength, depth and collaboration of our Private Client & Trusts team. We are proud to be acknowledged among leading firms globally and to see the quality of our work and client service reflected in these prestigious awards.”
Simon Raftopoulos, Managing Partner, added: “We are especially pleased to see Jackson recognised in the Rising Star Legal category. As a talented young Caymanian lawyer, he represents the future of our practice and the wider profession. His shortlisting is richly deserved and reflects both his dedication and the calibre of emerging talent within our firm.”
Appleby’s Private Client and Trusts team advises on all aspects of trusts and estates law, including the establishment, administration, restructuring and termination of private, charitable and commercial trusts and foundations. The group’s lawyers are frequently instructed by institutional and independent trustees, family offices, high-net-worth individuals and other leading international institutions.
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 17 September 2026 at the London Hilton on Park Lane.
