We recently welcomed over 100 students, alumni and staff members to the launch of our Annual Lecture which saw Lord Neuberger, Chancellor of the University and former President of the , deliver an inspiring and insightful keynote speech.
Written by Grant Longstaff. Published 17 October 2025.
Introduction: Professor Andrea Nollent
The evening opened with an address from our Vice-Chancellor and CEO, Professor Andrea Nollent. She stated: “We believe powerfully and passionately that education is curated through inspiration, mentorship and the passing on of wisdom from those who have walked the path before us.”
Andrea went on to discuss the importance of the inaugural Annual Lecture: “It’s about creating space for reflection, conversation and practical insight into what it truly means to be a lawyer today and anticipating what that role will be tomorrow.”
Lecture: Lord Neuburger
Andrea then introduced Lord Neuberger, who reflected on his extensive legal journey and shared practical career advice for aspiring lawyers. He began by discussing the difficulties and differences between becoming a barrister now and in 1974, when he was called to the Bar. He also talked about the combination of luck and hard work in forging a successful career and the importance of learning from mistakes, both your own and those of others.
Lord Neuberger continued at length on the rule of law, emphasising the need for laws to be “accessible and comprehensible” and the necessity for properly trained lawyers. He also highlighted some of the potential threats to the rule of law and discussed topical issues such as the inadequate level of legal aid, the abuse of executive powers in the USA and much more. He closed his address stating, “All the dangers are worrying, but facing down dangers is intellectually and practically stimulating. And when it's for a good cause – such as the rule of law – it's also very satisfying.”
Following the address, alumnus Alex Aldridge, founder of , continued the discussion with Lord Neuberger which further explored his career, thoughts and experiences on the legal world.
Food for thought
We’ve pulled some of our favourite quotes and pearls of wisdom from Lord Neuberger and shared them below:
“Don’t give up. Nothing is guaranteed. But grit, determination and high spirits are worth a lot. It's how you handle your setbacks that marks you out.”
“The trouble is that most people who've been successful don't want to admit that their success is partly, often largely, due to good luck…The role of luck is always worth bearing in mind. You've got to be ready for it. Life is not entirely fair and just. If you know luck is always around, you are more likely to grasp it when it comes your way.”
“Personal disadvantages can make you more understanding of other people's problems. That doesn't only make you a better person, it also makes you a better lawyer.”
“When you start off in any career, you are particularly prone to making mistakes. They're part of your education. Don't grieve too much over them, but don't ignore them. Learn from them.”
“Play to your own strengths. Don't try and pretend to be somebody you’re not. Don't try and be somebody you are not naturally like.”
“You don't want to shout at people and bully them into being good…You want to make people respect you and want to impress you.”
“You may think you've finished learning, but life is like walking up a mountain. Every time you think you’re near the top, you pass over a ridge, and you suddenly see you've got further to go.”
“If lawyers don’t defend the rule of law, who will?”
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