The University of Chichester has awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws to The Right Honourable Lord Briggs of Westbourne, recognising his outstanding contribution to the law, public service and legal education.
A Justice of the UK Supreme Court since 2017, Lord Briggs has enjoyed a distinguished legal career spanning more than four decades. He was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1978, became Queen’s Counsel in 1994 and was appointed to the High Court in 2006 before joining the Court of Appeal and later the Supreme Court, where he will be taking on the role of President from January 2027.
The honorary degree celebrates Lord Briggs’ exceptional contribution to the legal profession and his commitment to widening access to justice, supporting legal education and inspiring the next generation of lawyers.
The honour also recognises Lord Briggs’ support for the University and its Law School. He has opened the University’s moot court room, delivered guest lectures and shared his expertise with students and staff, helping to inspire future legal professionals.
Receiving the award, Lord Briggs said: “It is very special to be honoured in the city near to which I have lived since I was six years old, and I’m delighted to have been able to play a part in promoting a young and up-and-coming law faculty.”
Reflecting on his career, he added: “I am most proud of preserving and enhancing the principles of equity as an inspiring source of justice and fairness in the common law.”
Lord Briggs also encouraged students and graduates to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom.
“Work hard to get the best possible degree. Make sure that voluntary unpaid work in your area of expertise forms part of your career from the earliest stage. It gives you valuable early experience, and it’s very rewarding to give something back.”
Amy Elkington, Academic Lead for Law at the University of Chichester, said: “We are delighted to recognise the work of Lord Briggs with an Honorary Doctor of Law, and we are very grateful for the support he has provided to the law school at the University of Chichester over the past few years.”
