“If you are determined enough, you will succeed”

LAW degree study at the University of Huddersfield set Dapinderpaul Singh QC on a career course that would lead him to become a top barrister who also sits as a judge in Crown Court trials.

Now, almost exactly 20 years after he graduated, the Yorkshire-born lawyer was back at the University to receive an Honorary Doctorate, in recognition of his contribution to the legal profession.

He received the distinction at one of the July 2019 awards ceremonies taking place over nine days at the University.  An oration was delivered by Professor of Law Samantha Halliday, who outlined Mr Singh’s career.  He had, she said, risen to the very top of his profession, as a barrister specialising in complex frauds and serious crime.

“In 2016, he was appointed a Recorder and now spends around 30 days a year as a judge, presiding over Crown Court trials.  A year later, in 2017, he took silk, becoming Queen’s Counsel.  As a testament to his abilities and hard work, he achieved all this before his 40th birthday,” said Professor Halliday.

“Whilst at Huddersfield, he met Judge Michael Murphy QC at a careers day, he then regularly appeared before him at Sheffield Crown Court and Judge Murphy was one of the assessors for his silk application.  A connection made at the University of Huddersfield has proved to be of continuing importance,” she added.

“Whilst at Huddersfield, he met Judge Michael Murphy QC at a careers day, he then regularly appeared before him at Sheffield Crown Court and Judge Murphy was one of the assessors for his silk application.  A connection made at the University of Huddersfield has proved to be of continuing importance,” she added.

Professor Halliday told how Mr Singh had extremely fond memories of his time at Huddersfield and was motivated to rekindle his relationship with its Law School by mentoring current students, assisting them in planning their careers.

After receiving his Honorary Doctorate from the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bob Cryan, Mr Singh said he was very grateful that the University had put him on the path to his career achievements.

“You all begin a new journey today,” he told the audience of law graduates.  “I was there in 1999, with proud parents wishing me all the best for the future.  There will be times when you get knocks and you receive negativity, but if you are determined enough, you will succeed.”