Courts / Dublin / Report
Tributes paid to former District Court judge
Summary
Clare Leonard, a former District Court judge who served from 1992 until her retirement in 2013, passed away after a brief illness. She was best known for her extensive work in the Children's Court at Dun Laoghaire, where she approached each case with sensitivity, intelligence, and patience. Leonard also contributed to legal scholarship, writing on xenophobia and racism. Judge Rosemary Horgan, president of the District Court, praised Leonard for treating every child, case, and parent as unique and for recognizing the importance of detention as a last resort. At a Dublin court session, Judge Gerard Furlong announced Leonard's death, expressing regret that she could not enjoy a longer retirement. Judge Deirdre Gearty also lamented the brevity of her retirement, noting Leonard's courteous nature and dedication to her role. The court staff and colleagues mourned her passing, highlighting her significant impact on the legal community.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Tributes paid to former District Court judge. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- 2017-03-03 Publication
Places mentioned
- Dun Laoghaire district court
Topics
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