The Law Society of Ireland is proud to announce a new category in this year’s Justice Media Awards, Best Student Journalism, to recognise emerging talent and support the future of legal journalism.

The category is open to entries from second-level and third-level student journalists who have had their work published in Ireland. This work must directly relate to the law and publication can include, but is not limited to, a school magazine, college newspaper or student radio station.

James Cahill, President of the Law Society, said, “The Law Society has a long history of championing the highest standards of legal journalism, first hosting our Justice Media Awards 30 years ago. It is important that this includes the future of this vital media sector, which is why we are pleased to announce a new Best Student Journalism category.”

“The Justice Media Awards recognise outstanding print and broadcast journalism that contributes to the public’s understanding of justice, the legal system and legal issues. Previous winners have included some of our nation’s best regarded journalists, many of whom earned their first by-line in a student publication. Students at second and third level institutions across Ireland now have the opportunity to join this legacy and we encourage budding journalists to get involved,” he continued.

“The Law Society is committed to improving access to the solicitors’ profession, and representation of women and diverse groups. And we are pleased to extend this to the Justice Media Awards as we particularly encourage entries from journalists from diverse backgrounds, and entries covering topics relating to the law that increase representation for gender equality, diversity and inclusion issues in Ireland.”

“As an organisation grounded in tradition, the Law Society continues to look forward to the future. We hope that by creating a new student journalism category, the Justice Media Awards will inspire the next generation of legal affairs journalists to uphold the highest reporting standards and play an essential role in the public’s understanding of justice and the legal system.”

Entries now open

The deadline for entries is at 5pm on Tuesday 6 April 2021. The Law Society of Ireland Justice Media Awards 2021 will take place online on Thursday 24 June 2021.

A full list of categories, entry forms and submission guidelines are available to view and download at www.jmawards.ie.

Return to previous press releases