BEJI Launches $10,000 Justice Scholarship
The Bermuda Equal Justice Initiative [BEJI] has launched a new $10,000 annual scholarship for a Bermudian student pursuing legal studies.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Equal Justice Initiative [BEJI] is pleased to announce the launch of the Dr. Courtenay Griffiths KC Justice Award Scholarship, an annual $10,000 scholarship for a Bermudian student pursuing legal studies and intending to practise criminal law in Bermuda.
“The scholarship is both a tribute and a practical step. It honours the life, work and example of Dr. Courtenay Griffiths KC, while advancing BEJI’s commitment to strengthening Bermuda’s pipeline of criminal law advocates. Bermuda’s justice system requires talented, principled and courageous lawyers who are prepared to appear in the criminal courts, defend constitutional rights, serve the public interest and uphold the integrity of the rule of law.
“The scholarship will provide $10,000 to one successful applicant pursuing a law degree or professional legal qualification, including an LLB, JD, GDL/PGDL, BPC or other Bar course, LPC, SQE pathway, or another recognised legal qualification. It is intended to support Bermudian students who demonstrate a serious interest in criminal law, constitutional law, public law, justice reform and public service.
“The scholarship is named in honour of the late Dr. Courtenay Griffiths KC, one of the most respected criminal defence advocates of his generation. Called to the Bar in 1980 and taking silk in 1998, Dr. Griffiths became a commanding presence at the Criminal Bar and in major international proceedings. His reputation was built not only on the profile of the cases in which he appeared, but on the discipline, courage, preparation and independence with which he approached the work of advocacy.
“Dr. Griffiths’ career also carried deep resonance in Bermuda, including through proceedings before the Bermuda courts. His example remains a powerful reminder that the justice system is only as strong as the advocates prepared to test the evidence, defend liberty and insist that due process is not reduced to form.
“Applicants must be Bermudian students pursuing legal studies and must commit to returning to Bermuda to practise primarily in criminal law, constitutional law and/or public law for a period of at least two years after qualification and/or being called to the Bar.
“Applications will be assessed on academic promise, demonstrated commitment to criminal justice, public service, leadership potential, character, advocacy aptitude and connection to Bermuda.”
Speaking about the scholarship, Eron S. L. Hill, Founder and Executive Director of the Bermuda Equal Justice Initiative, said: “The Dr. Courtenay Griffiths KC Justice Award Scholarship is more than an award in memory of a great advocate. It is an investment in the future of justice in Bermuda.
“Dr. Griffiths’ legacy is one of courage: the courage to take on difficult cases, the courage to defend the unpopular, the courage to challenge the state when fairness demanded it, and the courage to prepare until the courtroom had no place to hide from the truth.
“Bermuda is urgent need of an increase in the pool of criminal law advocates, particularly those willing to take on Legal Aid work. That shortage affects real lives. It affects access to justice, the pace and quality of trials, and public confidence in the system. BEJI intends to take meaningful and practical steps to help address that challenge.
“Through this scholarship, we want to tell the next generation that criminal advocacy matters. It is demanding work, but it is also noble work. It calls for intellect, discipline, empathy, independence and moral courage. We hope this award inspires young Bermudians to see advocacy not only as a career, but as service.”
The spokesperson said, “BEJI will administer the scholarship through a formal application and selection process. Applicants will be required to provide a personal statement, proof of enrolment in legal studies, academic records, references and a written commitment to practise in Bermuda following qualification.
“Eligible students with a genuine interest in criminal law, justice reform and public service are encouraged to submit their applications to info@bermudaequaljusticeinitiative.org
“Applications are now open and will close on 15 August 2026.”
