Final year Law and Law & Criminology students completed an unforgettable trip to London for the annual Lawyer in London field trip

The School of Law’s Gillian Pastuch and Mark Johnson reflect on Lawyer in London with the help of students Sophie Stead and Gabriel Okafor.

Forty final year students from Law and Law & Criminology took part in our annual Lawyer in London trip on 14 and 15 December 2023 organised by Senior Lecturer’s Gillian Pastuch and Mark Johnson.

Lawyer in London provides students with transformative opportunities to experience the practice of law in a global city.

This year, following an early start at Collegiate Campus, we arrived in London for inspirational talks from John Battle KC, Head of Legal and Compliance at ITN News and from Ruth Camp, housing solicitor from the charity Shelter.

The following day began with a walk along Chancery Lane taking in famous legal sites of the Law Society and the Inns of Court on our way to the Royal Courts of Justice (pictured in header above). At the RCJ our students took part in a mock-trial in the court rooms of the RCJ, before receiving an engaging talk from Master Stevens KBD, a judge and Master of the King’s Bench Division of the Royal Courts of Justice.

Lawyer in London 2023 was capped off by a memorable trip to international law firm CMS who hosted our students for lunch and events in the afternoon.

Lawyer in London is an inspirational insight into a diverse variety of different legal practice areas. It is made possible due to the fantastic links the School of Law has with the legal community on a local, national and international basis.

Our brilliant students, Sophie and Gabriel, will pick now pick up the story with their own reflections on a memorable Lawyer in London 2023.

“In December, I was given the fantastic opportunity to attend the ‘Lawyer in London’ trip held by Sheffield Hallam. During the first day of this event, I was honoured to receive an insightful talk from senior barrister John Battle KC, followed by a talk from solicitor Ruth Camp from Shelter. The second day was an ultimate eye-opener for myself who aspires to be a barrister, as we visited the Royal Courts of Justice, where I was able to act as judge during a thorough mock trial. I cannot thank the tutors enough who organised this event and encourage all students next year to apply.”

Sophie Stead, L6 Law

“The diverse career paths of the two lawyers who spoke to us on day one showcased the versatility of the legal profession. These sessions provided a unique glimpse into the passion and interests that drive individuals beyond their professional roles. Participating in a mock trial at the Royal Courts of Justice provided insights into the practical aspects of law and gave us a rare opportunity to walk the halls of such a historically significant building. Networking with trainee solicitors at CMS offered practical tips for securing training contracts. This exposure broadened my understanding of the legal landscape, inspiring me to consider unconventional paths within the field. This event without a doubt significantly impacted my future decision-making, emphasising the importance of networking and diverse experiences in shaping a fulfilling legal career.”

Gabriel Okafor, L6 Law