2011: Ms Debbie Mortimer SC
Victorian lawyer Debbie Mortimer SC won the annual Law Council of Australia President's Medal and was presented her award by Law Council of Australia President, Alexander Ward, at a dinner reception held at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
Ms Mortimer SC has over 23 years experience in the legal profession, including eight years as a silk and has practised across a diverse range of disciplines.
Ms Mortimer SC is particularly renowned in the public law sphere and was lead counsel in the applications to the High Court on behalf of Afghani asylum seekers under threat of removal to Malaysia. She has also represented clients in environmental law, Indigenous land rights and has clients across the government, non-government and pro bono sectors.
Ms Mortimer said she felt honoured and privileged to receive the award.
"When I look at the past winners, I do find it a little hard to conceive of myself in that category - it's thrilling, but difficult to come to terms with," Ms Mortimer said.
"Ms Mortimer embodies the very best traits of Australia's legal profession and it was a privilege to present her with the Law Council of Australia Presidents Medal," Mr Ward said.