This is a new innovation of the awards, which were previously judged by a panel of lawyers, designers and search engine specialists when they were run in 2002 and 2003.

This year, the judging will potentially be carried out by hundreds of judges, using web technology that allows anyone to register as a judge. FindLaw and FirmSite commercial manager Gavin Messenger said the large number of judges “should give a truer state of play”. Another innovation is the addition of a prize for best law firm website across the three categories of small, medium and large firms, which Messenger said would add excitement to the awards and give the smaller firms a chance to outshine the larger players.

The 2003 winners were Allens Arthur Robinson, Swaab Attorneys and Immigration Solutions in the large, medium and small firm categories respectively. The people’s choice award went to Michell Sillar. To nominate your firm or register as a judge go to http://www.websiteawards.com.au/web/default.asp.