London’s Oldest Higher Education Institute Welcomes Clive Stafford Smith JD OBE as New Professor of Law

Gresham College is proud to announce the appointment of Clive Stafford Smith JD OBE as the new Professor of Law. Stafford Smith, a renowned human rights lawyer and the founder and director of the Justice League, a non-profit human rights training centre dedicated to fostering the next generation of advocates, will join the college in delivering free public lectures on significant legal issues starting this September.

In his new role at Gresham College, Stafford Smith will provide a series of lectures aimed at exploring contemporary legal challenges, human rights issues, and the impact of legal frameworks on society. His lectures will draw from his extensive experience and offer insights into the intersection of law, justice, and human rights.

Clive Stafford Smith brings decades of experience and a distinguished career in the field of human rights law. His appointment reaffirms the college’s dedication to addressing contemporary issues through free, high-quality educational offerings.

Known for his dedication to defending the rights of those facing the death penalty and severe human rights abuses, including over 400 people facing execution in the US. Stafford Smith has had a profound impact on the legal landscape both in the US, UK and internationally. He brought the first challenge to Guantánamo Bay, where he has secured the release of 85 detainees and continues to assist the remaining 30. In all five of the cases he has helped bring to the U.S. Supreme Court the petitioner has prevailed. He also founded the Louisiana Capital Assistance Center in 1993 and Reprieve in 1999.

Professor Clive Stafford Smith will deliver regular lectures at Gresham College as their new Professor of Law starting from Autumn 2024.

In addition to his litigation practice, Stafford Smith teaches part-time at Bristol Law School and Goldsmiths and runs a summer program for students in Dorset. He has published several books, including “Bad Men” and “Injustice,” both shortlisted for the Orwell Prize, and “The Far Side of the Moon.” He has contributed to many films and documentaries, including “Fourteen Days In May,” ranked among the top BBC documentaries of all time. He has received numerous awards, including an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000 for “services to humanity.”

Professor Stafford Smith’s inaugural lecture; Human Rights Law: Bringing Power to the Powerless, will take place at 6pm on Thursday 19th September, at Barnard’s Inn Hall, London.

Professor Stafford Smith expressed his enthusiasm about joining Gresham College, stating:
“I am honoured to become part of an institution with such a rich history of advancing knowledge and fostering intellectual debate. I look forward to engaging with the public on important legal issues and contributing to Gresham College’s mission of providing accessible education.”