Shifnal law student reaches final of national competition
A law student from Shifnal has beaten competition from across the country to be named as a finalist in an annual competition.
Gabrielle Butler, 19, has triumphed against law students and legal trainees nationwide to be named as one of 10 finalists in National Accident Helpline’s annual Future Legal Mind Award 2021.
Now in its seventh year, a record number of entries were received for the essay competition this year. Past winners have gone on to become barristers and solicitors.
A first-year law student at the University of Cambridge, Gabrielle was prompted into studying law when she learnt about the Trump Administration’s sustained attack on the rights of transgender individuals.
She dreams about becoming a solicitor to help and advise others on how the law can empower and protect them.
In her essay she argued that victims of sexual violence are “routinely abandoned” by the law, which is in “urgent need of reform” in order to increase women’s access to justice after experiencing sexual violence.
Gabrielle said: “Though surprised, I feel honoured and incredibly happy to have been named on the shortlist.
"As someone who is only in the first year of my law degree, I feel especially proud to have become a finalist of such a reputable competition.”
Will Herbertson, marketing and strategy director of NAHL Group said: “Gabrielle clearly feels passionately about challenging laws that discriminate against minority groups. We wish her the best of luck for the final.”
Gabrielle finds out in May if she is the winner of the competition. The winner will receive a £2,000 prize fund and will be mentored by experienced lawyers.
Each of the finalists has recorded a video explaining why they should be named the winner.
To watch Gabrielle’s video, visit bit.ly/3nB05e4 or for more information on the competition visit national-accident-helpline.co.uk/news/future-legal-mind
