University of Toledo Student Wins Stuckey Firm Scholarship for Advocacy on Jury Trial Rights

The Stuckey Firm, LLC announced Kayla Marsh, a University of Toledo pre-law student, as the recipient of its 2025 scholarship. The $2,500 award recognizes Marsh's advocacy for expanding the right to jury trials for personal injury victims, a topic that addresses fundamental questions about access to justice in the American legal system.

Marsh, who is pursuing a degree in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice, developed her passion for the scholarship topic through her experience working at a personal injury law firm since high school. During this time, she witnessed firsthand the influential role juries play in ensuring fair outcomes for injury victims. Her practical exposure to the legal system provided unique insight into how jury decisions can significantly impact individuals seeking compensation for injuries.

"I've been surrounded by cases where juries make a significant difference, and restricting their role could have serious consequences," Marsh explained. "This scholarship topic felt especially relevant to me and pushed me to think more critically about what a fair trial really looks like." Her perspective highlights the ongoing tension between efficiency concerns and the preservation of traditional jury rights within the civil justice system.

The scholarship recipient credits much of her inspiration to her mentor and boss, Lori, an attorney who has guided her since high school. "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 relationship demonstrates how professional guidance can shape future legal professionals' career trajectories and ethical frameworks.

Beyond her academic achievements, Marsh maintains an impressive record of extracurricular involvement that complements her legal interests. She serves as president of both the Ohio Innocence Project-U Chapter and the Political Science Student Association, competes on the mock trial and Model EU teams, and plays club softball. Additionally, she volunteers for the Ohio Coalition to End Qualified Immunity and interns for Judge Lindsay Navarre at the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas. These diverse experiences provide her with multiple perspectives on legal system operations and reform efforts.

After graduating from UToledo, Marsh plans to pursue a legal career that makes a meaningful impact, possibly as a prosecutor working at the federal level. "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 a growing trend among law students seeking public service roles that address systemic justice issues.

The Stuckey Firm, LLC, which serves individuals and families across Ohio and West Virginia in personal injury, wrongful death, and accident cases, established the scholarship to support students like Marsh who demonstrate commitment to improving the justice system. Founded in 2018 by Nathan Stuckey, the firm focuses on personalized advocacy and has grown to include offices in Springfield, Dublin, and West Virginia. More information about the firm's approach can be found at https://www.stuckeyfirm.com.

This scholarship program represents one way legal organizations are investing in the next generation of attorneys who will shape future legal practices and policies. The recognition of Marsh's work comes at a time when jury trial rights face increasing scrutiny amid court backlogs and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Her advocacy for preserving and expanding jury access reflects broader conversations about how to balance efficiency with fundamental rights in civil litigation.