The well-known judge is due to retire from the court in January after more than two years at the helm.
In her new role at UCL, she will take part in teaching, research and public engagement, particularly in her areas of interest such as women’s rights, access to justice and the rule of law. She has, since 2010, been on the advisory board of UCL Laws’ Judicial Institute―the first and only centre of excellence devoted to research, teaching and policy development to promote understanding of the judiciary and a fair and effective judicial system.
She has a background in academia, teaching law at the University of Manchester from 1966 to 1984 as well as practising at the Family Bar.
‘I am delighted to be rejoining the academic world as an honorary Professor at UCL,’ Lady Hale said. ‘UCL Laws is a ground-breaker in its work on the judiciary and the judicial system and I hope to be able to make a real contribution to that―and one which will have a real impact upon the everyday lives of real people.’
Professor Piet Eeckhout, Dean of UCL Laws, said Lady Hale’s acceptance of the honorary professorship was ‘very exciting news for the university. She has been an exemplary President of the Supreme Court: articulate, determined, fair, and collegiate. Our students and staff will benefit from all of this experience and are extremely excited to have such an inspirational role model in our midst.’
