Courts / Wicklow / Report

Legal exec tells Michael Lynn trial she signed other solicitor's name under his instruction

Date
2023-11-14

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Redcross

County
Wicklow

Summary

In the trial of Michael Lynn, a former legal executive, Liz Doyle, testified that she signed another solicitor's name on documents at Lynn's instruction, citing intense pressure and fear in the firm. Doyle, who worked as a legal executive at Michael Lynn & Co, described a demanding environment with constant calls and emails, and claimed she followed Lynn's directions to sign the name of Fiona McAleenan, a solicitor in the practice, and also the signature of Kinsella Mitchell and Associates, auditors for the firm. She admitted she was aware that signing the documents was wrong but felt compelled by the pressure. Doyle also discussed personal financial strain, including her husband's business collapse and multiple mortgages. The prosecution alleges Lynn obtained multiple mortgages on the same properties, while the defence disputes the extent of Doyle's knowledge and intent. The case is before Judge Martin Nolan and a jury. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Legal exec tells Michael Lynn trial she signed other solicitor's name under his instruction. Charges or matters: 21 counts of theft in Dublin between October 23, 2006 and April 20, 2007. Procedural stage: trial

When:

October 23, 2006 Hearing Or Sentence
April 20, 2007 Hearing Or Sentence
2023-11-14 Publication

Why: Photo: Collins) A legal executive for former solicitor Michael Lynn has told his trial she signed another solicitor's name on undertakings at his instruction because there was "fear" at the practice and she was under "horrendous" pressure at the time. CNI source report