Students and early career legal professionals from across the UK were asked to write a 1000-word essay on the question: “As the Supreme Court approaches its 15th anniversary, what reflections would you offer on its role and achievements?”

The essays were judged by Lady Simler, who was appointed to the court on 14th November 2023.

The judicial assistants and Lady Simler spent a great deal of time carefully reading entries to the essay competition, and selected four runners up. Congratulations are due to Sofia El Mamouni, Craig Williams, Mustafaen Kamal and Jasmine Jones. Each of the runners-up received a signed certificate and a copy of The Supreme Court of the United Kingdom by Chris Miele.

The court received over 120 entries to the competition, but there could only be one winner: trainee solicitor Jude D’Alesio produced an innovative and well-structured entry for the competition. 

Mr D’Alesio recently visited the UKSC to collect his prize and meet with Lady Simler. 

Lady Simler said: “It was a challenge to choose a winner from the entries we received for the essay competition. The standard was high and many of the entries offered thoughtful, mature reflections on the achievements of the Supreme Court in its 15th year, drawing not only from case law but a wide range of other sources, and coupled with originality and flair. It is clear to me that the legal profession has a bright future ahead.

“Over tea, I thoroughly enjoyed finding out more about Jude’s legal aspirations, as well as his wider interests and motivation behind the winning essay. I wish him every success in his future career.”

Mr D’Alesio said: “I was delighted to see the Supreme Court hosting its essay competition. I submitted my piece with the full expectation it would not make the final cut, but being happy nonetheless to have taken part. To win the competition, therefore, was a big surprise!

I answered the question in a way that was not bogged down with black letter case law. Instead, I tried to write something enjoyable for the average reader that put the Supreme Court in its proper historical and social context.

As a prize, I had a one-to-one meeting with Lady Justice Simler at the Supreme Court. This was an unforgettable experience, and I was struck by how down-to-earth, authentic, and modest a character Lady Simler was. A highlight of the visit was also watching court proceedings from the public gallery, which gave an insight into the work of barristers which I hope to take back into my job as a trainee solicitor!

The experience has really inspired me to enter similar competitions in the future, and I would like to give the biggest thank you to my family and friends for supporting me!”

Read the winning essay here.