WA Regional Practitioner of the Year Award
Awarded to a regional practitioner who exhibits an outstanding commitment to their profession and local community, instilling confidence and trust and enhancing the reputation of the legal profession in the regions.
Congratulations to our 2025 winner:
Mark Jeffreys
Mark Jeffreys’ career is a testament to unwavering dedication to justice, community service, and ethical leadership. As Principal Solicitor at Pilbara Community Legal Service (PCLS), he has demonstrated exceptional commitment to both the legal profession and the diverse communities across the Pilbara region. With over 15 years of experience in criminal, family, and community law, Mark is widely respected for his integrity, strong advocacy, and tireless efforts on behalf of vulnerable clients.
Mark has played a pivotal role in developing and coordinating regular outreach services to towns including Newman, Hedland, and Roebourne, as well as remote communities like Jigalong, Nullagine, Marble Bar, Onslow, Paraburdoo, and Pannawonica. By bridging the gap between legal practice and community needs, he ensures access to justice for people in isolated areas. He also mentors junior lawyers and helps strengthen the capacity of community legal services to meet local demand.
Understanding that legal issues often intersect with broader social challenges, Mark collaborates closely with community service providers to deliver holistic support for clients facing family violence, housing insecurity, and financial hardship. His approach empowers clients with the tools and confidence to overcome future obstacles.
Mark’s commitment extends beyond law; he serves as a Board Member of EPIC, a local disability services organisation, and as Treasurer of the Karratha High School Parents & Citizens Association—demonstrating how professional values of service, trust, and accountability can enrich civic life.
As Chair and convenor of the Principal Solicitor network for community legal centres across Western Australia, Mark fosters cooperation and resilience among practitioners, promoting a legal profession grounded in collaboration and service.
Through his leadership, Mark Jeffreys has elevated the reputation of regional legal services, ensuring they remain ethical, principled, and deeply connected to the communities they serve.
Award criteria
The award will be judged on three criteria as follows:
- Community empowerment: Record of achievement and commitment in providing legal support to one or more regional, rural or remote communities.
- Impact: Provides advocacy or support for the needs and interests of regional clients or wider regional communities.
- Integrity: Enhances the reputation of the legal profession in the regions through the promotion of ethical and civic standards.
Judging panel 2025
Clare Thompson SC: Honours Committee member, The Law Society of Western Australia
Gary Mack: President, The Law Society of Western Australia
Michael Ryan: Convener, Country Practitioners Committee, The Law Society of Western Australia
Kylie Sexton: Country Practitioners Committee member, The Law Society of Western Australia
Important dates
- Nominations open on Friday, 11 July 2025.
- Nominations close at COB on Monday, 18 August 2025.
- Unfortunately, late submissions will not be accepted.
- Award winners will be announced at the Law Society’s 2025 Gala Awards Evening on Friday, 7 November 2025. Click here for more information.
Further information
Contact Member Services on (08) 9324 8692 or email membership@lawsocietywa.asn.au.
Previous Award recipients
WA Regional Practitioner of the Year
- 2025 – Mark Jeffreys