Press release: Attorney General visits law students in Birmingham

Attorney General Jeremy Wright QC MP will meet with University of Birmingham students and staff when he visits the law school today (Thursday 9 November).

The Attorney, who is the Government’s Pro Bono Champion, is making the visit as part of National Pro Bono Week – a nationwide campaign to increase understanding and interest in pro bono work.

The University won an award for Outstanding Contribution by a Law School at the Attorney General’s Pro Bono awards earlier this year. The Attorney will meet law students who give free legal advice to some of the most vulnerable people in the community, on issues including family and employment law. The University runs a number of different projects that enable students to get involved in a range of activities, while allowing them to develop their knowledge of how the law operates in the real world. The Attorney General said:

“Pro bono work often starts at universities and colleges, where students gain first-hand experience of providing legal advice and help to those in need.

“I strongly encourage both students and established lawyers to explore what sort of pro bono help they might be able to provide, as it will enhance their careers and make a real difference to those who receive it.”

Professor Michael Whitby, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Head of the College of Arts and Law at Birmingham Law School said:

“We are delighted to be welcoming the Attorney General to Birmingham Law School during National Pro Bono Week. Our Pro Bono Group represents a significant commitment by staff and students at the University of Birmingham to making a positive difference to our community at global, national and international level.

“This initiative is generously supported by members of the city of Birmingham’s legal profession. The Group’s focus on increasing access to justice accords with the core values of our civic university and exemplifies Birmingham’s commitment to developing graduates with attributes and experiences that make them competitive and valuable employees.”

The Attorney, who superintends the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), will also visit the CPS West Midlands office in Birmingham.

CPS West Midlands recently underwent an inspection by Her Majesty Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate with inspectors roundly praising performance. They found hate crime conviction rates had much improved from previous inspections, and that the Area had been working well to improve outcomes for victims and witnesses.