Sarah Keogh: the 2018 Junior Pro Bono Barrister of the Year

Introducing Sarah Keogh: Junior Pro Bono Barrister of the Year 2018 and employment law specialist

Sarah Keogh has dedicated her career to pro bono. From pupillage to present, Sarah’s commitment to pro bono cases has been unwavering, making her a worthy winner of this award. Her nomination came about as recognition of pro bono work in employment law at Old Square Chambers but her impressive experiences throughout her career show that there is much more to be celebrated.

“In an ideal world free legal assistance would be available where needed in all areas of our court system”

An avid supporter of those with special educational needs, as well as a specialist in employment law, Sarah combined passion with skill in Brangwyn v South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust. The client involved had complex mental health conditions and his claim of disability discrimination had been unsuccessful, but Sarah’s tireless efforts secured him permission to appeal on two grounds. Protecting the most vulnerable in society has formed the backbone of Sarah’s career, from representing children with special educational needs in tribunals, to regularly attending the Central London Employment Tribunal to assist litigants in person.

“It is hugely rewarding to see the positive impact it can have on a person’s life to have someone in their corner and listening after struggling through the legal system on their own”

Sarah’s work is one of many examples of the life-changing work our volunteer barristers undertake.

Highly commended for this award last year were Toby Brown of South Square Chambers and Rebecca Murray of Temple Tax Chambers. Toby’s dedication to the African Prison Project and the Access to Justice Foundation has made him well known and valued in the pro bono sector, whilst Rebecca’s scheme for providing pro bono representation for taxpayers in the Tax Tribunals has helped to put pro bono on the tax law map.

Junior Pro Bono Barrister of the Year 2019 is kindly sponsored by Juriosity. The winner will be presented with their award at the Bar Pro Bono Awards on Wednesday 6th November in Pro Bono Week 2019. Nominations are now open: Enter here!