Patrick Roberts Law
Public Service Scholarship
Applications Open for Fall 2025 Scholarships
The Patrick Roberts Scholarship for Aspiring Criminal Justice Professionals is dedicated to supporting individuals who aim to create a significant impact in the field of criminal justice. It seeks to encourage and empower students motivated to uphold the rule of law, advocate for the underrepresented, and contribute fiercely to the betterment of society.
This opportunity is for individuals who possess a compelling motivation for choosing criminal justice law and have a proven track record of passion and commitment to the field. It is for those who are passionate about ensuring equality before the law, advocating for fair trials for all, and protecting the rights of the accused.
Attorney Patrick Roberts is a distinguished criminal defense lawyer in North Carolina, known for his unwavering commitment and exceptional prowess in representing his clients. With a career spanning over two decades, he has built a reputation for his strong defense tactics and sharp analytical skills. He has defended individuals accused of a wide range of complex crimes across the state, such as child sexual assault, drug trafficking, white-collar offenses, domestic violence, and other felony charges.
Mr. Roberts has received various awards, including the Client Champion Platinum Award from Martindale-Hubbell®. He was selected by his peers to receive the AV Preeminent designation from Martindale-Hubbell®, which acknowledges high ethical standards and competence in the field of Criminal Defense. Additionally, Attorney Roberts was awarded the Top 100 Trial Lawyers and Top 40 Under 40 titles, having been nominated by his peers and recognized through a national vetting process by the National Trial Lawyers in 2013.
Mr. Roberts' academic journey began at Johns Hopkins University, where he earned a degree in Engineering before discovering his passion for law. He obtained his Juris Doctor from Duke University School of Law and further refined his skills at the Trial Lawyers College and the National Criminal Defense College. His service as an Assistant District Attorney across North Carolina, along with appointments to the North Carolina State Ethics Commission and Juvenile Justice Planning Committee, reflect his commitment to justice, ethical standards, and community service. Mr. Roberts’ dedication and exemplary career make him an inspiring role model for the next generation of leaders in criminal justice.
This scholarship awards $5,000 to selected applicants pursuing a degree in criminal justice or a related field. Applicants should clearly convey their motivation, passion, and dedication.
Apply HereWho is Eligible to Apply?
To be eligible for a Fall 2025 Patrick Roberts Law Public Service Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:
- You are enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university for the Fall 2025 semester
- You are a U.S. citizen
- You are at least 18 years old
- You are pursuing a career in public service such as law, social work, government, non-profit, or education
How Do I Apply?
Your application should include a 500–750 word essay response to the following prompt:
What is one major issue facing the criminal justice system today, and how would you work to address it in your future career? How have you taken advantage of opportunities to work or volunteer in the criminal justice realm so far? How do you see these opportunities propelling your career within this sector forward?
The Deadline to Submit All Materials is October 24th 2025 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
How Are The Recipients Chosen?
After reviewing all applications, our team at the Patrick Roberts Law will select a recipient for the Fall 2025 scholarship based on the following criteria:
Thoughtfulness & Originality
of Submitted Essay
Clarity and Quality
of Writing
Fit with Application
Requirements
We will select and notify the Fall 2025 recipient by November 24th , 2025. Awards will be sent directly to the financial aid office of each recipient's school. Recipients must consent to the use of their name, photograph, and essay on the Patrick Roberts Law website, social media channels, and other marketing materials.

