Now open for 2023, the Bar Council’s Law Reform Essay Competition is aimed at developing and fostering an interest in law reform. Students and pupils are invited to submit essays making the case to reform English, Welsh and European law.

The competition is offering a top prize of £4,000 (wow!), plus prizes for runners-up and highly commended essays. Here are the details:

• The winner: £4,000, and their essay published on Counsel magazine’s website
• Runner-up: £2,500 
• Best GDL entry: £1,500
• Runner-up GDL entry: £1,000
• Highly commended award: 2 x £500

In addition, all prize winners will be invited to meet members of the Law Reform Committee at a small reception held at a set of chambers.

How long have you got to craft your masterpiece? The deadline: 23rd October 5pm

If you need further inspiration, watch the video below to hear from past winners. Or read the essays from previous years (dating back to 2018).