The Stuckey Firm, LLC, has selected University of Toledo pre-law student Kayla Marsh as the recipient of its 2025 scholarship, awarding her $2,500 for her advocacy work focused on expanding the right to jury trials for personal injury victims. This recognition comes at a time when access to justice and the role of juries in civil cases remain critical issues within the legal system, potentially affecting how injury victims seek compensation and accountability.
Marsh, who is pursuing a Political Science degree with a Criminal Justice minor, developed her interest in jury trial rights through practical experience working at a personal injury law firm since high school. She observed how juries significantly influence case outcomes and ensure fair proceedings for injured individuals. Marsh explained that restricting jury roles could undermine justice, stating, "I've been surrounded by cases where juries make a significant difference, and restricting their role could have serious consequences. This scholarship topic felt especially relevant to me and pushed me to think more critically about what a fair trial really looks like."
The scholarship's focus on jury trial rights matters because it touches on fundamental legal principles affecting everyday citizens. When personal injury victims face limitations in accessing jury trials, they may encounter barriers to obtaining full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This has broader implications for public trust in the legal system and the balance of power between individuals and large corporations or insurance companies.
Marsh credits attorney Lori, her mentor and former boss, with inspiring her legal career path. "Her passion for her work and the way she supports her clients and uplifts others have left a lasting impression on me," Marsh shared. This mentorship highlights how professional guidance can shape future legal advocates who prioritize client-centered representation.
Beyond her scholarship-winning essay, Marsh demonstrates commitment through extensive campus and community involvement. She serves as president of both the Ohio Innocence Project-U Chapter and the Political Science Student Association, competes on mock trial and Model EU teams, plays club softball, and volunteers for the Ohio Coalition to End Qualified Immunity. She also interns for Judge Lindsay Navarre at the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas, gaining practical judicial experience.
After graduation, Marsh plans to pursue a legal career focused on meaningful impact, potentially as a federal prosecutor. "I want to be the kind of attorney who seeks justice, holds people accountable, and advocates for fairness in the system," she said. Her career aspirations reflect growing interest among new lawyers in public service and systemic reform.
The Stuckey Firm, which serves personal injury, wrongful death, and accident clients across Ohio and West Virginia, established this scholarship to support students like Marsh who demonstrate commitment to justice system improvement. Founded in 2018 by Nathan Stuckey, the firm emphasizes personalized advocacy and direct attorney-client communication. More information about their approach can be found at https://www.stuckeyfirm.com.
This scholarship announcement comes as legal education costs continue rising, making financial support increasingly important for students pursuing public interest law careers. By recognizing advocacy for jury trial rights, The Stuckey Firm highlights ongoing debates about civil justice accessibility that could affect how future lawyers approach representation and systemic change.
