Courts / Dublin / Report

'Mago' Gately gets legal aid to fight CAB case despite claims of €440k spend on home

Date
2022-11-16

Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

High Court judge Mr Justice Alexander Owens ruled that James 'Mago' Gately and his partner Charlene Lam are entitled to legal aid to defend Criminal Asset Bureau (CAB) claims that their Coolock home was purchased with proceeds of crime. CAB opposed the application, alleging the couple spent over €440,000 on the property and took holidays in the Caribbean and Southeast Asia. However, the judge found the couple lacked the means to pay for representation, noting their recent spending had dried up and there was no evidence Gately earned income from training. The judge granted legal aid for one solicitor and one barrister but refused funding for senior counsel. CAB seeks orders under the Proceeds of Crime Act regarding the home, a Volkswagen Golf GTI, and a Rolex watch, alleging these assets were acquired through criminal proceeds. The couple denies these allegations, stating the assets were bought with legitimate funds, including Gately's past earnings and Lam's income as a beautician. The judge set a timetable for document exchange to expedite the hearing. The matter was adjourned and is scheduled to be next mentioned before the court next month.