Duncan McNair, a leading solicitor from Spencer West LLP and tireless advocate for animal welfare, has been awarded The Law Society’s prestigious Legal Hero of the Year 2024 award. The accolade, presented yesterday at the Law Society’s historic venue on Chancery Lane, recognises McNair’s exceptional work in protecting vertebrate species, with a special focus on the endangered Asian elephant, and his broader contributions to combating global dangers to both animals and humans.
McNair’s monumental efforts, especially through his founding of the non-profit organisation Save The Asian Elephants (STAE), have galvanised worldwide support for the protection of this iconic species. His work has led to a series of landmark achievements, most notably the Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Act, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at protecting all vertebrate species from exploitation in tourism and other harmful industries. For over a decade, McNair has dedicated hundreds of pro bono hours annually to his advocacy, which has included relentless media engagements, political lobbying, and legal strategy, all of which have brought real change to the field of animal welfare.
“It is a profound honour to receive this award and be named among such remarkable legal professionals,” McNair said during his acceptance speech. “But this recognition is not just for me – it is for all the creatures we care about and fight for and fellow humans injured and killed by abused, maddened captive animals. STAE and the Low-Welfare Act Coalition I lead have a vast amount to do. But this award recognises the growing awareness and concern for the great multitudes of species to which Man lays waste and the opportunities to protect and save them”.
McNair was one of five winners to receive The Law Society’s Legal Hero of the Year 2024 award, alongside Kevin Macmanaman, Andrew Macleod, Pauline Campbell and Stephen Kinsella.
The awards ceremony, hosted by Nick Emmerson, President of the Law Society, drew attention to the inspiring efforts of solicitors who have gone above and beyond their legal duties to bring positive, lasting change to their communities and society at large.
A Global Effort for Animal Welfare
McNair’s work with STAE has been truly transformative. With Asian elephants facing growing threats from habitat loss, exploitation in tourism, and illegal wildlife trade, McNair recognised an urgent need for legal and public intervention. Since founding STAE in 2015, he has played a critical role in raising global awareness about the plight of Asian elephants and advocating for better protections.
Dedication Beyond the Courtroom
While McNair’s professional legal career spans over 30 years, where he has built a reputation for his expertise in complex litigation, it is his passionate commitment to animal welfare that has made him stand out in the legal profession. His advocacy for ethical practices in animal tourism and his leadership in shaping meaningful legislation have left an indelible mark not only on the legal landscape but on the lives of countless animals and people alike.
The Law Society’s Legal Hero Awards 2024
This year’s Legal Hero initiative saw an impressive 500 nominations, a testament to the vast and impactful work being done by solicitors across the UK. After a meticulous review process by an expert judging panel, 19 individuals were shortlisted for their remarkable contributions. The five winners were honoured for their work, which has gone beyond the bounds of traditional legal practice and made a demonstrable, lasting impact on society.
The awards ceremony, held on 12 September 2024 at 113 Chancery Lane in London, was an inspiring occasion that highlighted the important work being done by solicitors who dedicate their time and expertise to causes that truly matter.
In recognising these unsung heroes, The Law Society celebrates the best of the profession and its power to bring about meaningful social change.
For more information about Duncan McNair’s work with Save The Asian Elephants, click here.
