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'Highly discourteous': senior judge criticises Law Society over failure to inform courts of proposed work withdrawal

Summary

Mr Justice Paul McDermott criticized the Law Society of Ireland for failing to inform the courts of the proposed withdrawal of legal aid work by solicitors, calling it 'highly discourteous'. The judge expressed disappointment that the court had not been notified of the action by solicitors or the Law Society. He emphasized the need for formal notification from a representative body, such as the Law Society, if such action was to be taken. The judge noted the potential impact on trials, including murder cases, jurors, and families. Solicitors were reportedly withdrawing services in a dispute over legal aid reforms involving solicitor fees. McDermott urged solicitors to inform the court in advance and not leave it to barristers to handle the situation. The comments were made ahead of the swearing in of a Central Criminal Court jury, with concerns that the trial may not proceed as scheduled.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Highly discourteous': senior judge criticises Law Society over failure to inform courts of proposed work withdrawal. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• 2026-06-16 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Read the original CNI report