Jack Sheard wins the Nicholas Jarman QC Advocacy prize

42BR is pleased to share that our pupil, Jack Sheard, has won the Nicholas Jarman QC Advocacy Prize 2026 after a mock trial at Inner Temple.

Jack was one of two pupils shortlisted for the prize following Inner Temple’s residential training weekend earlier this year. He was pitched against the other candidate for a final competition: a mock trial. Jack was instructed to defend Mrs Donaldson, who was accused of stabbing her abusive husband.

The competition was judged by Masters HHJ Soole, Alastair Hodge and Sarah Clarke KC, who assessed the candidates on their witness-handling and submissions. During the trial, both candidates (cross-)examined Mr and Mrs Donaldson, played by their advocacy trainers from the training weekend. Following this, the candidates made closing submissions to the jury.

After deliberations, the panel declared Jack was the winner of what had been a very high-quality competition. They were particularly complimentary of the responsive and persuasive nature of his closing speech.

The prize was donated by Mrs Julia Jarman, widow of criminal barrister Nicholas Jarman QC. Jack’s award will also be celebrated at the Inner Temple’s Annual Advocacy Dinner.

23rd Jun 2026

Jack Sheard

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