Over the summer of 2025, I was fortunate to be selected for the Chief Justice Summer Placement Programme, held in the Courts in Dublin. This initiative is designed for final-year law students from universities across Ireland, the US and the UK, offering hands-on experience working as judicial assistants within the courts.
The programme runs for three and a half weeks, beginning at the end of June and finishing in mid-July. Students are placed with judges based on their stated preferences and availability. As I had a particular interest in family law, I was delighted to be assigned to two High Court judges, Judge Jordan and Judge Jackson. Alongside the judges, I also worked closely with their full-time judicial assistants, whose guidance and support made the experience both approachable and engaging.
My daily tasks included proofreading judgments, preparing case summaries, and verifying legal citations. These assignments, though reviewed by the judicial assistants, provided valuable insight into the responsibilities of the role and helped me develop a stronger understanding of court procedures. I also had the opportunity to discuss ongoing cases with the judges, ask questions, and engage in meaningful conversations that deepened my appreciation of the legal process.
In addition to court work, the programme featured daily guest speakers and information sessions designed to broaden our understanding of the Irish legal system. Topics included the role of the Attorney General, juvenile justice, the Blackhall experience, and life as a barrister. These talks were exceptionally informative, offering practical advice and personal reflections from experienced legal professionals.
The programme concluded with a mock trial and moot held in the Supreme Court, where we presented cases before our peers and the Chief Justice himself. Standing in the Supreme Court chamber was an unforgettable experience and a highlight of the entire placement. Another major highlight for me was the networking aspect. I had the opportunity to meet students from across Ireland and even from the United States. Sharing experiences and perspectives on law and education with such a diverse group was both inspiring and enriching.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Chief Justice Summer Placement Programme to any final-year student at TUS. It is an incredible opportunity to apply the skills gained throughout your degree, gain real-world insight into the workings of the courts, and build connections that will last far beyond the placement itself.