The Future Lawyer of the Year Award

Are you the Future Lawyer of the Year?

We're searching for university students across the UK to find an 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, break barriers, and drive meaningful change. This award celebrates future lawyers who bring curiosity, innovation, and determination to the way they think about legal challenges.

More than just an award, this is a platform to showcase your potential and take ownership of your legal career. It's your chance to demonstrate critical and ethical thinking, gain recognition from Freshfields — a firm at the forefront of law for nearly 300 years — and share your vision for shaping the future of the industry.

To enter this award, you must be:

Interested in Law and studying a degree of any discipline
On track for a 2:1

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Apply

PRIZES

What could you win?

You could win £1,000 to invest in a professional development course of your choice, whether that's leadership training, public speaking, negotiation skills, project management, or any specialized area that will enhance your professional skills to become a lawyer. On top of that, you'll enjoy an exclusive dinner with Freshfields partners, offering you a unique opportunity to build connections, gain career insights, and learn directly from leaders at the very top of the legal world

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 forward-thinking problem-solver who can see beyond the textbook. They're curious about the world around them, committed to justice and equality, and able to apply innovative legal thinking to real-world challenges. The Future Lawyer of the Year should:

Show curiosity about society, justice, and law's role in driving positive change
Bring fresh perspectives and creative solutions to complex legal and ethical issues
Demonstrate resilience and adaptability when navigating complexity and ambiguity

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FROM OUR PARTNER

Freshfields and the Future Lawyer of the Year Award

Freshfields has defined what it means to be a global elite law firm, leading the profession for nearly 300 years with quality, innovation, and impact. With 32 offices worldwide, we advise the world’s most influential businesses on their most critical issues, from market-defining transactions to high-stakes disputes that set global precedent.

Our reputation is built on excellence. The Being Freshfields values of respect, support, openness, and excellence underpin a culture where exceptional talent thrives. We believe that the most successful legal careers are founded on collaboration, innovation, and the pursuit of the highest standards.

At Freshfields you will join a firm where heritage and ambition combine. From your first day you will work alongside some of the brightest legal minds, advising global clients and gaining exposure to complex, high-value matters. You will develop across practice areas and sectors while also contributing to initiatives that deliver real impact through our pro bono and community commitments.

We are dedicated to equality and diversity, recognising that the strongest teams draw on a wide range of perspectives and experiences. Whatever your background, you will find the support, resources, and opportunities to shape your ambition into lasting impact.

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

The next stage is a review by Freshfields of your application. Once reviewed, you may be invited to a Freshfields-led assessment centre.

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