In 2009, Joseph Richards graduated magna cum laude from the National Programme at the University of Ottawa, obtaining degrees in Civil and Common Law over a four-year period. Finishing with the highest overall standing in his class, he received the Right Honourable Brian Dickson Award, along with the Michel W. Drapeau Award for leadership and academic success and the Torts prize.

Richards was highly involved in his university community. He held the positions of Director of Residents' Affairs and Vice-President (Operations) with the Residents' Association, and ran for the presidency of the Student Federation. Last year, he served on the university's Senate, where he pushed for the special recognition of Remembrance Day, to allow students to participate in November 11 ceremonies without academic penalty.

While on exchange at the University of Houston in 2007, his interest in death penalty law led him to become involved with the Texas Innocence Network. With the Network, he investigated claims of innocence and visited death row to conduct interviews. Overall, his unique experiences in Texas provided a deeper understanding of American constitutional law.

An avid follower of politics, Joseph has volunteered in federal and provincial election campaigns since the age of 12. He is also an active member of his local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Since graduating, Richards commenced his articling term at the Crown Attorney's Office in his hometown of Sudbury and expects to be called to the Ontario Bar in June 2010. His interests include criminal, international, and constitutional law.

Attending Cambridge was a truly exciting and intellectually stimulating experience. The law professors are first rate and the city itself is so intimate and picturesque. The memories and international friendships formed will surely last a lifetime. Without the Paul Martin Sr. scholarship, I wouldn't have had this unique opportunity to travel abroad in pursuing graduate legal studies; I thank the Institute for all their support and confidence over the year and encourage all to apply. You won't regret it!