The Future Lawyer of the Year Award

Are you the Future Lawyer of the Year?

We’re searching UK universities to find the outstanding Future Lawyer of the Year. We’re looking for undergraduates who see the law not just as rules to learn, but as a powerful tool to shape society, challenge injustice, and drive change. This award celebrates future lawyers who bring curiosity, creativity, and determination to the way they think about legal issues.

More than just an award, this is a platform to showcase your potential, demonstrate your ability to think critically and ethically, and be recognised for the impact you could make as the next generation of legal leaders. It’s your chance to stand out, share your vision, and take a step towards a career where you can influence the future of law.

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Apply

PRIZES

What could you win?

You could win £1,000 towards a professional development course to enhance your skills, alongside a dinner with partners!

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WHAT IT TAKES

What makes an award winner?

A Future Lawyer of the Year isn’t just someone with strong academic results — they’re a thinker, a problem-solver, and a communicator who can see beyond the textbook. They are curious about the world around them, committed to fairness and justice, and able to apply legal thinking to real challenges. The Future Lawyer of the Year should:

Show curiosity about society, justice, and the role of law in shaping change
Bring fresh perspectives to complex legal and ethical issues
Demonstrate resilience and adaptability in the face of complexity

FROM OUR PARTNER

Freshfields and the Future Lawyer of the Year Award

At Freshfields, we seek visionaries.

Experience and contribute to a culture that values community and each person as an individual. Deliver meaningful work, turn ideas into action and drive our business forward. We partner with some of the biggest organisations across industries to help them navigate complex challenges, unlock opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. With offices in major financial and commercial centres around the globe, Freshfields combines deep sector knowledge with a collaborative, forward-thinking approach. For students, we offer more than just insight into international law — we provide opportunities to develop skills, build networks, and explore a career where you can make a real impact. From vacation schemes and training contracts to events and mentoring, our programmes are designed to support talented students from all backgrounds. At Freshfields, we’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where your ideas matter and your potential can thrive.

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GOING ALL THE WAY

How do I win?

Register

Extended Deadline:

January

2026

Online tests

Deadline:

January

2026

Submit by

26 January

2026

Your details must be submitted and completed by 9am on 26th January 2026.

If you are successful in getting through to the next stage, you will hear from us by 18th February 2026.

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Assessment

If you pass the initial application and screening stage your application will be reviewed by Freshfields. Once screened by Freshfields, you may be invited to an assessment centre led by Freshfields.

Grand final

The final shortlist of ten students will be invited to the awards ceremony on 24th April 2026, where the award winners will be announced.

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Apply Review application