Legal professionals inspire future generations at Cumbria’s university

Hannah Smith, a partner at Bendles, and Mr Rogerson were the keynote speakers at the annual law conference organised by the university’s student-led Law Society. 

Mr Rogerson delivered an insight into his career and the local courts and legal system followed by a talk by Ms Smith who explored the complexities of child law and the family justice system.  

Above l-r: University of Cumbria Law Society representatives with barrister Gerard Rogerson and LLB (Hons) programme leaders Fiona Buchanan and Fiona Boyle

The event was invaluable in bringing together legal professionals and figures from local public sector organisations including Citizens Advice, helping to inspire aspiring law professionals who are currently studying on the LLB (Hons) programme at University of Cumbria. 

Following keynote speeches, breakout workshops saw Citizens Advice highlight the free legal advice it offers and its work supporting communities. A representative from the HM Courts and Tribunals Service was able to give insight into how the court system operates. There was also a police-led session, supported by Cumbria Constabulary, which outlined the investigative process from arrest through to conviction before the day ended with a Q&A session.   

The conference demonstrates University of Cumbria’s continued commitment to experiential learning, employability and student voice.   

Law society president and second-year student Ellie McKenna said:

“We are delighted to have welcomed our guests, and we thank them for coming along and giving their time in support of our students. Our law conference offers students a look into their futures, where we can offer guidance and realistic expectations from professionals in any field they may choose. Students benefit from a look into their potential day-to-day life in practice.”  

Kieron Metcalf, a law lecturer at University of Cumbria, added:

“The conference provides fascinating insights into the daily lives of legal professionals. For students, they gain an invaluable opportunity to network with inspiring local practitioners.”  

Hannah Smith, Partner at Bendles Solicitors, said:

“I was delighted to be invited to speak at the University of Cumbria’s annual law conference. It was fantastic to see so many familiar faces in the student body, alongside new ones, and to have the opportunity to spend time with students who represent the next generation of lawyers.  

“Events like these are so important, not only to support and inspire future legal professionals, but also to continue and strengthen the great working relationship Bendles has with the university, particularly the law school.”  

The law conference comes as the student law society prepares to host its annual law ball. This year’s event is taking place at The Halston in Carlisle on 12 May.  

Ranked first for satisfaction with feedback out of 108 law schools nationally*, find out more about studying law at University of Cumbria at https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/study/courses/undergraduate/law/