I began my research project with a clear plan, and in my naivety, intended to stick with it to the last letter. However, research is never linear, and unexpectedly, the bumps in the path have helped me become more aware, resilient, and empathetic. My research focused on a comparative analysis of three high profile miscarriages of justice in infanticide cases, that is, women falsely accused and/or convicted of infanticide, only to be exonerated in the end as they were never truly guilty.
While I focused on the more academic aspects in my research report and poster, I wish to dedicate this blog post to the very human side of legal research that this summer exposed me to. The three women at the heart of the cases- Joanne Hayes, Sally Clark, and Kathleen Folbigg have left a lasting impact on my life. Over the course of the summer, I became deeply engrossed in their stories, and looked beyond pure legal analysis to find their own
voices, to hear their own perspectives, in a world that so frequently silences women. From losing their children, to being publicly vilified, their resilience in the face of pain left in me a deep sense of admiration.
As a law student, it can be hard to reconcile genuine academic interest in the discipline with its malicious side, especially in its treatment of the most disadvantaged in our society. However, the project allowed me to comprehend these injustices of the legal system on a much deeper level, and I now feel renewed motivation to be a part of the change.
If anything, learning about these incredible women forced into difficult situations has impacted my perception of leadership on a deep level. Experiencing the difficulty of coping with such heavy material was, in some strange way, invaluable; as it taught me that sitting with discomfort may sometimes bring about positive outcomes. The kindness and resources I received from my supervisors in this regard were invaluable.
As the summer ends, I realise that it has shaped me in ways I am still discovering. For this, I am eternally grateful to the people who made this possible. My supervisors, the Laidlaw Team at Trinity, and the Laidlaw Foundation have my sincere appreciation. Working with the other Trinity Laidlaw scholars over the summer, sharing updates, ideas, and having the most interesting conversations shaped this project in a deeply unique way. Thanks also to the many friends and peers who have made this experience such an enjoyable one!