In an exceptional achievement for the University, Charlotte McGuigan (LLB Law and Criminology) and Kayla Cunningham (LLB Law) have both been selected in Target Jobs’ Top 10 Future Lawyers for 2026, which celebrates undergraduate students demonstrating exceptional potential in the legal profession.
Target Jobs issued a nationwide call for “undergraduates who see the law not just as rules to learn, but as a powerful tool to shape society, break barriers, and drive meaningful change.” The award recognises future lawyers who bring “curiosity, innovation, and determination to the way they think about legal challenges.”
The selection process is rigorous and highly competitive, with applicants from across the UK showcasing their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and commitment to the field of law. Both Charlotte and Kayla have distinguished themselves by demonstrating the skills, insight, and real-world experience developed during their time at the University of Sheffield’s School of Law.
For two students from the same institution to be named in the Top 10 is a remarkable accomplishment. Together, they will make up one fifth of the finalists attending the awards ceremony in London on 24 April 2026.
Charlotte McGuigan said: “It is a real honour to have reached the final stage of such a prestigious award following a rigorous application process - particularly one partnered with a firm as highly regarded as Freshfields. Looking back, I still remember how daunting my first year of my law degree felt, which makes this achievement feel all the more unexpected.
During my time at Sheffield, I have been fortunate to get involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities. These include working in the University’s AI Policy Clinic, publishing articles on my student-founded online platform, and volunteering with refugees and individuals in police custody. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding and have shaped both my academic and professional interests. I am especially grateful to James Zeller for his support throughout the application process, and for encouraging me to apply in the first place. I’m looking forward to the ceremony in London, and to meet some inspiring undergraduates and employers!”
Kayla Cunningham added: “I am honoured to have made it through to the final for the Future Lawyer of the Year award. This achievement means a lot to me, especially as a state-educated and first-generation university student, which makes me feel really proud. I am grateful to the staff at the School of Law, who have shaped my education and allowed me to flourish, develop my confidence and form my career aspirations. I'd like to thank my academic tutor, Kate Campbell-Pilling, in particular, as she has supported me throughout my time at the university and has always encouraged me to celebrate my own successes, which in part influenced me to apply for the award. I am looking forward to the awards ceremony at the end of April to meet the other candidates and make new connections.”
This recognition highlights not only the individual excellence of Charlotte and Kayla, but also the strength of the University of Sheffield’s School of Law in nurturing the next generation of legal professionals.