The Law Society Award, offered every two years, honours the truly exceptional within the profession, based on the criteria of integrity, professional achievement, service and law reform. The Award is made chiefly in recognition of contributions to the advancement of the profession or the law, but public service outside the legal profession will be considered.

In 2008, the Law Society Award was presented to John McAlpine, QC (pictured at right with 2008 President John Hunter, QC at the Bench & Bar Dinner in November). The Rt. Hon. Chief Justice of Canada, Beverly McLachlin, P.C. supported McAlpine's nomination for the award, stating: "I can say, unequivocally, that through his professionalism, his contributions to judicial education and his role as an example and a mentor, Mr. McAlpine has made an outstanding contribution to the betterment of the law and the improvement of the justice system."

Past recipients of the Award are Charles C. Locke, QC (2006), Richard R. Sugden, QC (2004), The Hon. Kenneth E. Meredith (2002), The Hon. E.N. (Ted) Hughes, QC (2000), The Hon. Martin R. Taylor, QC (1998), Alfred Watts,QC (1996), Mr. Justice Peter D. Seaton (honoured posthumously, 1994), Chief Justice J.O. Wilson (honoured posthumously, 1992), Oscar F. Orr, MBE, OBC, QC (1988) and Dean Emeritus George F. Curtis, QC (1986).

The next call for nominations is expected in the Spring of 2010.