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Lacey Solicitors Continues Proud Legacy of Representing Young Solicitors on a National Level with Two New Committee Appointments

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

Lacey Solicitors is pleased to announce that two of its current solicitors, William Wilson and Aisling Creegan, have been elected onto the committee of the Northern Ireland Young Solicitors’ Association (NIYSA) for the 2025 term. This appointment highlights the continued leadership role Lacey Solicitors plays in representing young solicitors at the national level, further reinforcing its commitment to nurturing the next generation of legal talent.

William Wilson Elected Vice-Chair of NIYSA

 

William Wilson, property lawyer at Lacey Solicitors, has been elected as the vice-chair of the NIYSA for the upcoming year.   Wilson will play a pivotal role in steering the association through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for young solicitors in Northern Ireland.

Aisling Creegan Elected membership secretary of NIYSA

 

Aisling Creegan, another solicitor from Lacey Solicitors, will serve as the membership secretary of the NIYSA. This new appointment further underscores Lacey Solicitors’ significant influence within the association, as the firm continues to empower young solicitors in the region and provide them with platforms to thrive in their careers.

NIYSA’s Role and Importance

 

The NIYSA, established in 1984, represents and advocates for young solicitors in Northern Ireland. As a member-driven organisation, the association promotes the interests of solicitors with less than 10 years of post-qualification experience. It offers opportunities for professional development, networking, and the sharing of best practices among its members, all while supporting them through the evolving challenges of the legal profession.

The other committee members are Emma Falloon as Chair, Katherine Macauley as secretary, Shannan Greer as treasurer, Emma Doherty as CPD co-ordinator,  Victoria Kinkaid as social media manager, Tony McCann as membership engagement officer, Morgan Giovanna Pennie as trainee rep and Sarah Swann as LawCare representative.

Lacey Solicitors: A Proud History with NIYSA

 

Lacey Solicitors’ connection with the NIYSA runs deep, as the firm has a long and proud history of involvement with the association at a national level. Current partner Ruaidhri Austin is a notable example of Lacey Solicitors’ commitment to young solicitor advocacy. Ruaidhri was previously elected as the chairman of the NIYSA, an esteemed role that saw him lead the association through a transformative period. His tenure, which saw a continued emphasis on professional development and member engagement, paved the way for ongoing improvements in how the NIYSA supports its members.

With these recent appointments, Lacey Solicitors maintains its dedication to representing young solicitors and supporting their professional journeys. Both William and Aisling bring invaluable expertise and energy to their respective roles, and Lacey Solicitors is confident that their contributions will help drive the continued success and development of the NIYSA.

As the legal profession faces ongoing changes, including the aftermath of the global pandemic, the need for a strong, supportive network for young solicitors has never been greater. Emma Falloon, the newly elected chair of the NIYSA, has expressed her commitment to strengthening engagement with members across Northern Ireland and beyond. She aims to continue building lasting connections with counterparts in the UK, Ireland, Europe, and further afield, all while fostering the mental health and well-being of young solicitors through continued collaboration with organisation like LawCare.

Lacey Solicitors’ continued involvement in the NIYSA is a testament to the firm’s dedication to fostering a supportive, dynamic, and resilient legal community. With William Wilson and Aisling Creegan joining the ranks of the NIYSA’s leadership, the firm’s commitment to empowering young solicitors is stronger than ever, ensuring that they are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern legal landscape.

Conclusion

 

Lacey Solicitors extends its congratulations to both William and Aisling on their appointments and looks forward to seeing the positive impact they will undoubtedly have on the NIYSA and the wider legal profession in Northern Ireland.

How to Stay Safe During Dangerous Weather Conditions: A Guide for Employers and Employees

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

As winter sets in, Ireland experiences colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and an increase in dangerous weather conditions like snow, ice, and heavy rain. These conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents, especially slips, trips, and falls, which are common during the autumn and winter months. With many employees commuting in the dark and the weather worsening, it’s important to take proactive steps to ensure safety in the workplace.

 

In this article, we will provide guidance on how both employers and employees can stay safe during dangerous weather conditions and reduce the risk of accidents in the workplace.

What Should Employers Do to Prevent Accidents?

 

As the weather deteriorates, it’s essential that employers take appropriate steps to reduce the risks posed by icy conditions and hazardous outdoor environments. Here are some key actions your employer should take to protect their workforce:

  1. Grit Walkways and Entrances:
    If ice or snow is forecast, it is essential for employers to ensure that all walkways, pedestrian entrances, and paths are properly gritted. Grit (or rock salt) helps prevent the formation of ice, but it takes time to work, so the best practice is to grit the evening before the temperatures are expected to dip below freezing and again in the morning before employees arrive. Regular gritting throughout the day may also be necessary during ongoing weather conditions.

  2. Winter Weather Risk Assessments:
    A responsible employer should conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify any potential hazards that may arise due to dangerous weather conditions. These might include:

    • Paths under trees that are at risk of becoming slippery from falling leaves.
    • Blocked gutters that may cause excess water to spill onto pathways.
    • Areas that are perpetually shaded, leading to the build-up of moss, algae, or ice.
    • Poorly lit areas where it may be difficult to spot potential hazards like ice or debris.

  3. Ensure Proper Drainage:
    Ensure that drainage grids are free from obstructions to allow for the smooth flow of water. This will prevent water from pooling on walkways and causing further slip hazards.

  4. Clear Outdoor Paths and Walkways Regularly:
    Regularly clear paths of fallen leaves, moss, and other debris. Employers should also prune back overhanging trees or shrubs that may obstruct walkways or contribute to dangerous conditions.

  5. Non-slip Mats and Wet Floor Signage:
    Provide non-slip mats at entrances to buildings to help absorb moisture and prevent slips. Additionally, ensure that wet floor signs are clearly visible in areas that are likely to be slippery due to incoming weather conditions.

  6. Communicate Policies to Employees:
    Make sure all employees are aware of the firm’s winter or dangerous weather policy, including the steps to take when encountering hazardous conditions. Encourage them to report any hazards they notice on the premises.

 

What Can Employees Do to Stay Safe?

 

While employers have a responsibility to ensure workplace safety, employees also play a crucial role in maintaining a safe working environment during dangerous weather. Read our article on the steps and employee can take:

  1. Report Hazards Promptly:
    If you notice a potential hazard, such as a build-up of leaves, blocked drainage, or slippery surfaces, report it to your employer immediately. Prevention is always better than dealing with an injury.

  2. Wear Appropriate Footwear:
    When working outdoors in dangerous weather conditions, ensure you are wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear. This is one of the simplest ways to avoid slipping or falling.

  3. Familiarise Yourself with Company Policies:
    Make sure you understand your company’s winter or dangerous weather and risk assessment policies. Know what to do in case of an emergency or hazardous conditions and follow the safety procedures laid out by your employer.

  4. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings:
    Always be aware of any hazards on your way into and out of the workplace. Take extra caution when walking in poorly lit areas, and avoid rushing if conditions are slippery.

 

Additional Tips for Staying Safe in Dangerous Weather

 

In addition to workplace safety, it’s also important to take steps to stay safe in your personal life, especially if you need to travel during extreme weather conditions. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

  1. Avoid Unnecessary Travel:
    If dangerous weather is forecast, the first and most important rule is to ask yourself: “Do I really need to go out?” Driving in heavy rain, snow, or high winds can be dangerous, especially with fallen debris and flooded roads. Only travel if absolutely necessary, and ensure you check local weather reports for any disruptions.

  2. Driving in Dangerous Weather:
    If you must drive, ensure you are prepared:

    • Keep a firm grip on the wheel, especially when driving over bridges or in areas with little shelter from the wind.
    • Avoid overtaking other vehicles when wind conditions are high.
    • Slow down and drive cautiously when visibility is poor or when there is standing water on the road.
    • Always carry essential supplies such as food, water, blankets, and a fully charged phone in case of emergency.

  3. Stay Indoors During Storms:
    During extreme weather like storms, stay inside as much as possible. Avoid walking near buildings, trees, or fences that could collapse due to strong winds or flying debris. Listen for weather updates on the radio and TV to stay informed about any safety risks.

  4. Prepare for Power Cuts:
    In case of power loss, turn off non-essential appliances but leave a light on to indicate when power has been restored. Ensure you have warm clothing, a flashlight, and any necessary supplies ready in case you need them.

  5. Take a note of important numbers:

The Health and Safety Executive in Northern Ireland has a list of emergency contact numbers on their website that you should save in case you need them.

 

 

What to Do After a Storm

 

Once a storm has passed, be sure to check for any damage to your home, workplace, or property. Here are some key actions to take:

  • Contact your insurance company to report damage as soon as possible.
  • Avoid walking around exposed electrical lines or other hazards.
  • If necessary, arrange for emergency repairs to prevent further damage.
  • Keep receipts for any repairs or emergency services as they may be needed for your claim.

 

Can You Claim Compensation for an Accident?

 

If you suffer an accident at work due to dangerous weather conditions, you may be entitled to compensation, especially if your employer failed to implement necessary safety measures or carry out a proper risk assessment. If you’ve experienced an injury due to slipping on an icy surface or other weather-related hazard, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your options. Our team at Lacey Solicitors is here to provide expert advice on your case.

Call our Belfast office on 028 9089 6540 or complete our online contact form to arrange a consultation. Our friendly team is here to guide you through every step of the claims process and help you secure the compensation you’re entitled to.

Multiple Injuries and the Assessment of Damages, North and South.

Posted on by Damian McGeady (Partner)

A valued insurance client recently asked for guidance on measuring damages for personal injury in Northern Ireland, where multiple injuries are sustained, and how it compares to the approach South of the border.

 

Green Book Claims

 

The Green Book, or to give its official title, Guidelines for the Assessment of General Damages in Northern Ireland, was recently updated with the publication of the sixth edition. It is the NI equivalent to The Personal Injuries Guidelines. In applying the Green Book, the leading case on aggregating damages for multiple injuries is Wilson v Gilroy & Anor [2008] NICA 23.

 

Intuition

 

Much will depend on a trial judge’s determination and intuition.

 In Wilson, the Court of Appeal concluded;

In cases involving a multiplicity of injuries each of which calls for individual evaluation, it is well established that one should check the correctness of the aggregate sum (which is produced when one adds together the amounts for all of them) by considering the figure on a global or general basis. Essentially, this involves an intuitive assessment of the suitability of the sum produced to compensate the plaintiff’s overall condition.

Application

 

 In McAuley v Russell and others, Mr Justice Humphries applied a small discount on an aggregate award. In that case, he totted up the value of each injury as per the Green Book. The Plaintiff had suffered injuries including Left leg injury, Left arm injury, Right knee, Facial & ENT injuries, Scarring, Rib/chest injury, Concussion, Tooth injury, and an Adjustment Disorder. That amounted to an aggregate value of £250,000.  Applying the test of the Court of Appeal in Gilroy, the Judge reduced the award to £225,000.

 Theoretically, if the Court was satisfied, it could consider not applying a discount. It is not mandated; instead, it is for the Judge to decide. In practice, there will inevitably be a discount in most cases. The discount level may not be significant in some cases, such as the example in McAuley. When acting for Defendant Insurers, we would argue that there should be a much more substantial reduction than that given by the Court in McAuley. The truth is that another judge may well have given a lower award. Given, however, that it comes down to the intuition of the Judge, it would have been a difficult one to appeal.

 

 Claims under the Personal Injuries Guidelines

 

There is much more detailed guidance south of the border, where the proposed revised Guidelines have noted the application of the Jurisprudence of the Superior Courts.  See our previous insights where we highlighted that ‘The Uplift’ can exceed the value of the award for the dominant Injury in applying the new Guidelines.

Cases such as McHugh v Ferol and Lipinski (a minor) v Whelan, where the  High Court noted that the existing guidelines did not provide specific direction regarding the uplift that should be applied in cases of multiple injuries. In McHugh v Ferol, the court established that the combined uplift could, in certain circumstances, exceed the value of the award for the dominant injury. In the Lipinski case, the High Court gave clear guidance on calculating the compensation for psychiatric injury under the new guidelines. 

 In Zaganczyk Petit and others, the Court of Appeal referred to, with approval, the decision in McHugh v Ferol. In this instance, the Court of Appeal reduced the plaintiff’s award and gave further guidance on the methods of valuing psychiatric injury under the guidelines and procedures for calculating the uplift in a case of multiple injuries.

 If the revised guidelines are passed (as expected), these will be put on a formal footing.

Understanding Liability in James v Halliday [2024] IEHC 281

Posted on by Maria Adams

The recent Irish High Court decision in James v Halliday [2024] IEHC 281 has sparked discussions about road safety and liability apportionment in accidents involving agricultural vehicles. This case, decided on May 8, 2024, addressed a tragic collision between Darren James (the Plaintiff), a delivery driver, and a tractor driven by the deceased William Wilson (the Defendant).

Central to the judgment was the question of negligence and how liability should be divided between the parties.

 

Case Background and Circumstances

 

The accident occurred on January 12, 2018, on the N14 road between Lifford and Letterkenny in Ireland. The Plaintiff was driving at speeds of 60–70 mph on a wet and winding road.  The tractor, operated by the Defendant, lacked a legally mandated amber flashing beacon.

The collision unfortunately resulted in the Defendant’s death and significant injuries to the Plaintiff.

 

Principles of Liability

 

The Court in determining liability, outlined the well-established principles of negligence:

  • Duty of Care: Both parties owed a duty of care to operate their vehicles safely and in accordance with traffic regulations.
  • Breach of Duty:
    • The defendant breached this duty by failing to comply with lighting regulations, which are critical for ensuring visibility.
    • The plaintiff breached his duty by not adapting his driving speed to the road and weather conditions.
  • Causation: Both breaches contributed directly to the collision.

The Court opted to apportion liability having reference to the relative severity and impact of each parties actions.

The High Court determined the following;

 

Negligence by the Defendant:

 

The court held the estate of the Defendant, 75% liable for the accident in circumstances where the Defendant’s failure to illuminate his tractor with a yellow flashing beacon was deemed a “severe breach of duty.”

 

Contributory Negligence of the Plaintiff:

 

The Plaintiff was found 25% liable for driving at an inappropriate speed for the conditions, even though he was within the legal limit.  The court noted that the road’s wet and winding nature required greater caution, which the Plaintiff failed to exercise

The role of Yellow Beacons

 

This case highlights the significance of S.I. No. 354/2015 – Road Traffic (Construction and Use of Vehicles) Regulations.

The purpose of these beacons as outlined by the Revised standards of the Road Safety Authority for Agricultural Vehicles are to warn other road users that they are approaching a slow-moving or large vehicle.

These beacons enhance visibility, particularly in low-light or adverse conditions. The failure to use this safety feature was a critical factor in the court’s decision, as it significantly reduced the tractor’s visibility, making the accident foreseeable and preventable.

 

Considerations for future Liability Disputes

 

This judgment sets a clear precedent for how courts may handle liability in similar cases:

  1. Enhanced Scrutiny on Agricultural Vehicles: Operators of such vehicles must comply with all safety regulations, knowing that non-compliance can result in substantial findings of liability.
  2. Reinforcement of Contributory Negligence Principles: Drivers of other vehicles are also expected to adapt their behaviour to prevailing conditions, even if they are not the primary cause of an accident.
  3. Judicial Focus on Safety Standards: The court’s decision underscores the importance of ongoing regulatory compliance as a cornerstone of road safety.

 

Conclusion

 

The High Court’s ruling in James v Halliday serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibilities shared by all road users. The decision emphasises that adherence to safety regulations, such as the use of yellow beacons, is not merely a legal formality but a vital measure to prevent accidents. By apportioning liability between the parties, the court sent a clear message: negligence on the part of one does not absolve others from their duty to exercise caution.

This case will likely influence future legal considerations in Ireland, reinforcing the critical link between compliance, visibility, and liability in road traffic law.

 

Steps to Take if You Suffer A Personal Injury at Work

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

Although statistically most accidents occur at home, many people in Northern Ireland spend a significant amount of time at work. If you’re injured on the job, it’s crucial to follow the proper steps if you plan to seek compensation.

Workplace accidents, whether a trip, fall, slip, or serious injury involving equipment, can be devastating and a real source of anxiety. Often, people neglect to address these incidents, even though they can cause lasting damage.

Workplace accidents can lead to serious injuries, such as broken bones, crushed limbs, or amputations. If this occurs, you have the right to seek legal representation and consider a compensation claim. Taking this step not only supports your recovery but can also help prevent similar incidents in the future.

 

What To Do if You Are Injured At Work

 

After an injury at work, your priority should be recovery. Take the time you need to heal and consult with your doctor and any specialists they recommend.

During this time, keep a detailed record of the incident, photograph your injury and progress, and save all related receipts. This documentation will be valuable if you decide to pursue a compensation claim with your employer’s insurance.

 

What if My Employer Doesn’t Have Insurance?

 

By law, all employers in Northern Ireland must have Employers Liability (EL) insurance and be insured for at least £5 million. Most insurers automatically provide cover of at least £10 million.

Employers’ liability (EL) insurance enables businesses to meet the costs of damages and legal fees for employees who are injured or made ill at work through the fault of the employer. Employees injured due to an employer’s negligence can seek compensation even if the business goes into liquidation or receivership.

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is responsible for enforcing the law on EL insurance and have issued guidance for employers. An employer can be fined up to £2,500 for each day that they do not have appropriate insurance.

Lacey Solicitors in Belfast can carry out checks against an employer to establish whether or not they have insurance if you have been injured at work.

 

Steps to Take After an Accident at Work in Northern Ireland

If you’re injured at work, taking the right steps is crucial to protect your interests and strengthen your compensation claim. Here’s what you should do after a workplace accident:

STEP ONE – Seek Medical Attention
If your injury requires hospital care, ensure you take a colleague with you. This helps prevent your employer from denying the accident occurred.

STEP TWO – Report the Injury to Your Employer
It’s important to immediately report the injury to your employer. UK businesses are required to maintain an accident record book. If your employer fails to document the incident, follow up with an email detailing the accident, the time it occurred, and any medical treatment you received.

STEP THREE – Document Your Recovery
Record your recovery journey by taking photographs or videos of your injury and its progress. Keeping a daily log of your healing process helps illustrate the pain and suffering you endured, which can be essential in a legal claim.

STEP FOUR – Collect Witness Statements
Gather contact details and statements from anyone who witnessed the accident, as well as anyone who accompanied you to the hospital. This evidence can strengthen your case when pursuing compensation and can greatly assist your legal team.

By following these steps after a workplace injury, you ensure your rights are protected and can make it easier to pursue a compensation claim for your injuries.

 

Injured at Work? Seek Legal Advice

 

Lacey Solicitors, with offices in Belfast and Dublin, is a leading insurance and injury law firm. We represent both insurers in defending claims and innocent victims of injury. Our unique position, acting for both claimants and defendants across Ireland, gives us valuable insight into each case, enabling us to deliver tailored and effective legal solutions for the best chance of success.

 

If you have been injured at work, contact Lacey Solicitors using our online portal for trusted personal injury legal assistance.



How Much is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

Thinking of making a claim for compensation for a personal injury in Northern Ireland? How much is your personal injury claim worth and how much compensation should you receive?

 

If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault in Northern Ireland, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation you can claim depends on the specifics of your case, including the type of injury and the impact it has had on your life. Whether you’ve suffered an injury in a road traffic accident, at work, or elsewhere, it’s important to understand how much compensation you might be entitled to.

 

What is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?

 

The value of a personal injury claim is influenced by multiple factors. While there’s no set amount, experienced solicitors can give you an estimate based on your situation.

 

Factors which impact the worth of a personal injury claim include:

 

  1. A person’s age and pre-accident health
  2. The type and severity of injury sustained
  3. Any long-term prognosis
  4. The medical care provided to date and any future medical expenses
  5. The impact on a person’s life and career
  6. Whether your own actions contributed to any of the injuries sustained

 

More severe injuries, such as catastrophic injury claims like quadriplegia, can attract substantial compensation, with awards from the courts reaching up to £870,000.

 

Personal Injury Compensation Breakdown in Northern Ireland

Here’s a closer look at compensation estimates for various types of injuries in Northern Ireland:

  1. Severe Brain Injury Claims
    Compensation for severe brain injuries typically ranges from £500,000 to £850,000.

  2. Road Traffic Accident Claims

    • Minor injuries like whiplash can yield £5,000 if recovery occurs within six months.
    • For more prolonged recovery (up to 24 months), compensation can be as much as £22,500.
      Road traffic accidents can also result in lost earnings and vehicle repairs, all of which are compensable under special damages.

  3. Industrial Disease Claims

    • Ireland’s rich industrial heritage particularly in relation to its shipbuilding has meant that asbestos claims are particularly prevalent in this jurisdiction in comparison to other European countries
    • Pleural plaques (common in asbestos exposure cases) can lead to compensation of up to £22,000.
    • More severe cases, such as Asbestosis, can attract pay-outs of up to £125,000.

What Are Special Damages?

 

In addition to compensation for pain and suffering, you may also claim for financial losses directly resulting from your injury. These are called special damages and can cover:

  • Damaged property or items
  • Loss of earnings (past and future)
  • Car repairs or hire
  • Medical care
  • Travel expenses
  • Rehabilitation and therapy costs
  • Specialist equipment (e.g., prosthetics, hearing aids)

Special damages are essential for covering out-of-pocket expenses incurred because of the accident. If, for example, you are injured in a car accident, you could claim for vehicle repairs, hire car costs, lost income, and medical treatment expenses.

Compensation for a Minor Back Injury in Northern Ireland

For a minor back injury where full recovery occurs within 6 to 24 months, the typical compensation amount is up to £22,500. If the injury requires longer recovery or causes lasting effects, the compensation amount may increase.

Whiplash Compensation in Northern Ireland

Whiplash injuries to the neck are fairly common injuries in road traffic accidents, especially rear-end collisions. Compensation for whiplash varies:

  • For a full recovery within 6-12 months, compensation can range up to £7,500.

 

Average Personal Injury Compensation in Northern Ireland

Because personal injuries vary greatly, it’s difficult to pinpoint an average pay-out. The compensation you receive will depend on the specifics of your case, including the severity of the injury and its impact on your life.

Get Expert Legal Help for Your Personal Injury Claim

If you’ve been injured and need help navigating your personal injury claim, Lacey Solicitors is here to assist you. Our legal team specialises in personal injury and liability claims, and we’ll work to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today using our online form for a consultation on your case and let us guide you through the legal process.

Recent A-Level Results: A Career in Law Awaits!

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

Are you passionate about practising law and ready to embark on your career in a new and innovative way? Our boutique insurance law firm is offering a unique opportunity to combine hands-on legal experience with a fully funded law degree through our prestigious Legal Apprenticeship Programme in conjunction with Ulster University.

As a legal apprentice at Lacey Solicitors, you will immerse yourself in a specialised environment where you will gain invaluable on-the-job experience, assisting and handling a diverse range of cases, all while pursuing your Law degree at Ulster University.

Lacey Solicitors offers specialist legal services to the insurance industry and prides itself on the exemplary, accessible service it provides. Our practice extends to both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, and all of our lawyers are dual-qualified in these jurisdictions. Our lawyers provide a specialist focus in a variety of different areas within insurance law ranging from motor liability, public liability, and employers’ liability claims to catastrophic injury and complex policy coverage disputes. Our lawyers are client-facing, problem-solving, forward-thinking individuals who pride themselves on working collaboratively with a view to providing stellar service to our valued clients. We recognise the importance of our junior lawyers and assist them in finding their passion for practice.

Why Choose Our Apprenticeship Programme? Our apprenticeship programme offers a unique pathway that allows you to work as a paid employee within our firm, while concurrently earning a Law degree, with the added benefit of fully funded tuition fees. This means you can focus on honing your legal expertise and academic development, without the financial burden of university costs. As an apprentice, you will spend the majority of your week contributing to our legal teams, working directly under the guidance of a seasoned mentor. You will be exposed to real-world insurance law cases and develop practical skills that are crucial to thriving in the legal profession.


Areas of Expertise and Professional Experience: At Lacey Solicitors, we have handled significant cases that have had a lasting impact on the insurance law landscape, both nationally and internationally. As a legal apprentice, you will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in our core practice areas, which include:
• Insurance Litigation
• Personal Injury Law
• Claims Management
• Regulatory Compliance
• Risk Management
• Coverage Disputes

You will be actively involved in various aspects of case management, such as:
• Drafting legal documents
• Liaising with Barristers during the life cycle of a case
• Conducting in-depth legal research on complex insurance matters
• Maintaining detailed case correspondence and documentation
• Assisting in client interviews and witness statements
• Attending Court in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland

Why Choose Us?  • Real-World Experience: Work alongside junior and senior lawyers on a wide range of cases, gaining invaluable insights into the legal industry in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

• Earn While You Learn: Receive a competitive salary while studying for a fully accredited law degree, without the burden of tuition fees.

• Tailored Mentorship: Benefit from personalised guidance from our experienced legal professionals, helping you navigate your career path and mentoring you throughout your apprenticeship.

• Boutique Firm Environment: Located in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, Belfast, and on the doorstep of Ulster University’s Belfast Campus, you will enjoy the close-knit, supportive atmosphere of a boutique firm where your contributions are recognised, nurtured, and valued.


Who Should Apply?
This programme is perfect for ambitious individuals who are:
• Eager to start a rewarding legal career without the traditional student debt.
• Passionate about practising law and eager to make an impact in a specialised field.
• Ready to balance academic rigour with practical, on-the-job training.


Entry Requirements: To be considered for this apprenticeship, you must meet the following academic requirements:
• A’ level grades of ABB or equivalent.
• A minimum of a Grade C in English GCSE or equivalent.
All offers of employment should be conditional offers based on our requirements.


Start Your Journey Today!Don’t miss this opportunity to jumpstart your legal career with a firm that values your growth and contribution. Apply now and be part of a dynamic team where your future in law begins. You should submit your CV along with a covering letter detailing your interest in law, your motivation to join our firm, and why you would make an excellent apprentice.


Application Deadline: 4 p.m. Friday 30th August 2024.

Send your application to: aisling@laceysolicitors.com

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview week commencing 2nd September 2024. If you have already accepted your place on a traditional Degree pathway, you are welcome to apply for our Legal Apprenticeship Programme. 

Support and Guidance 

Throughout the apprenticeship, you will receive continuous support from our expert legal team. You will be paired with an Office Mentor and an Academic Advisor from Ulster University who will provide guidance throughout your apprenticeship journey and help ensure your academic and professional success. Your legal career starts here. Are you ready to make it count?

 

Speak to an Expert at Lacey Solicitors today.

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