Pro bono takes centre stage

This year’s LawWorks and Attorney General Student Pro Bono winners received their awards from Attorney General Dominic Grieve QC MP, at a presentation in the House of Commons just before the Easter break.

Topping the awards, which are sponsored by LexisNexis and celebrate the achievements of law students in legal pro bono work, was Sheffield Hallam University—recognised for its efforts to engage students and academics in raising awareness of pro bono both locally and internationally. Exeter University, which runs a popular Community Legal Helpdesk for court users, won Best New Student Activity award.

Hannah Cosgrove was the recipient of the Best Individual Student Award for her work in the University of Strathclyde law clinic.

The attorney general emphasised the importance of recognising and celebrating the “fantastic work done by students and law schools in providing pro bono work”. “It is impressive to see, so early on in their career, the commitment of these students to providing access to justice for all,” he said.

LexisNexis MD, Christian Fleck, added: “We believe pro bono work plays an essential role in helping those who cannot afford access to justice. It is great that this year’s entries are yet again at a very high standard: they show the commitment of those entering the legal profession to pro bono work. We are happy to support and celebrate the excellent work of the winners and those who have been shortlisted.”

The Attorney General also announced that this year’s Access to Justice Foundation Student Essay Competition winner was Matthew Fraser, who is studying the BPTC at City Law School, for his article on whether pro bono should be come compulsory. Matthew’s article will be published in NLJ later in the year.