Winchester Cathedral to host Law Week Festival this autumn

Taking place at Winchester Cathedral, the fourth annual Law Week Festival will run from October 5 to 15, and will feature speakers, discussions and creative works focused on the criminal justice system and the role of faith in rehabilitation.

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A major feature of this year's festival is the Law Week Exhibition, which includes portraits of Hampshire judges and magistrates. (Image: Supplied)

Canon Andrew Micklefield, canon treasurer at Winchester Cathedral, said: "Law Week Festival creates a space for thoughtful conversation about issues that affect individuals, communities and society as a whole.

"By bringing together voices from the legal profession, the Church, education and the voluntary sector, we hope to encourage a deeper understanding of justice, mercy and the importance of supporting people as they rebuild their lives."

The festival will address how communities can support rehabilitation, the influence of faith within the justice system and broader questions about justice in a changing world.

Legal figures, prison chaplains, theologians and community groups will contribute to the programme.

One of the headline speakers is Sir Robert Buckland KBE KC, former justice secretary, who will deliver a talk titled Justice and the Rule of Law in the Age of Machines on Friday, October 9 at 7.30pm.

Sir Robert will discuss the future of justice in a technological era, drawing on his experience in law, public life and faith.

Revd Dr Isabelle Hamley's keynote lecture will examine the relationship between justice and mercy through a theological perspective. (Image: Supplied)

Revd Dr Isabelle Hamley will deliver a keynote lecture on Wednesday, October 14 at 7.30pm titled Beyond Fairness: The Surprising Justice of a Merciful God, offering a theological exploration of the relationship between justice and mercy.

A central part of the festival is the Law Week Exhibition, which will run throughout the event and showcase creative work from local schoolchildren and men from HMP/YOI Winchester.

The exhibition will include portraits of Hampshire judges and magistrates from the Wisdom by Innocence project, as well as photography, poetry and artwork developed in collaboration with BearFace Theatre CIC.

These pieces will explore themes of hope, freedom, voice and justice.

Other events include the annual Law Sunday Service on October 11 at 11am, honouring those who serve in law and order across Hampshire.

Rev David Hinks will lead a session on Monday, October 12 at 7pm focusing on the role of chaplaincy in the criminal justice system and how faith can support rehabilitation and reintegration.

The Law Week Festival is sponsored by Shentons Solicitors.