Socio-Legal Studies Association Annual Conference 2026

The Socio-Legal Studies Association (SLSA) Annual Conference 2026 is a premier event in the field of socio-legal studies, organized by the School of Law, Politics and Sociology at the University of Sussex. Scheduled from Monday, March 30 to Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the conference will be held on the university's campus in Falmer, Brighton. This annual gathering has been a cornerstone for scholars and practitioners since the association's inception in 1990, providing a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering professional networks.

The conference will feature over 30 regular sessions alongside individual topical ones that reflect socio-legal themes or debates of current emerging importance. Key topics include the intersection of social class and law, exploring how law produces class inequality and the intersection of class with other identities. Additionally, the program includes a postgraduate panel session, plenary panel sessions, and various panel discussions covering a wide range of socio-legal issues.

Attendees can look forward to ample networking opportunities, including an informal reception on the first evening at the Brighton Palace Pier and a gala dinner on the second evening at The Grand Hotel, where the SLSA annual prize winners will be announced. The conference will also offer an online poster display and live-streamed plenary sessions to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.

This conference is ideal for academics, researchers, practitioners, and students engaged in socio-legal studies. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research, participate in meaningful discussions, and connect with peers from around the world, all within the vibrant setting of Brighton.