Today, Tuesday 11 May, over 50 solicitors from Leitrim, Longford, Roscommon and Sligo will attend the Essential Solicitor Update 2021, the first in a series of online events taking place this year to support local solicitors to upskill while working remotely.

Organised by Law Society Finuas Skillnet in association with the Bar Associations of Leitrim, Longford, Roscommon and Sligo, the conference provides an opportunity for local solicitors to stay up-to-date in areas of law relevant to their daily work within their communities.

Solicitor Michael Monahan of Michael Monahan Solicitors, Sligo, is President of the Sligo Solicitors Bar Association and said the Essential Solicitor Update is a welcome chance for local solicitors to highlight changes that have arisen in practice over recent months, such as new client bank account charges, data polices and more.

“Every year, the Law Society hosts a series of events across the country. There have been limited opportunities for colleagues to meet over the last 12 months, virtually or otherwise, so this conference is a welcomed chance for solicitors to come together and discuss the challenges and changes we have faced in practice,” explained Mr Monahan.

Data protection

“GDPR and data protection are two keys issues which will be addressed at the conference. Whether working remotely or preparing to physically reopen, businesses must ensure that they have a robust data policy in place,” explained Mr Monahan.

“Every small business, community group and sports team must be vigilant of the data they keep, ask themselves why they keep it and report breaches if necessary.”

“As we prepare to reopen, now is good as time as any to review our data policies and delete unnecessary information. Local solicitors are experts in GDPR and if you need advice or want to review your business or organisation’s data policy, talk to your local solicitor,” he said. 

Bank charges

“In February 2021, the Law Society and local bar associations across the country campaigned against the introduction of negative interest rates and sought an exemption for solicitor client accounts to this charge,” he said.

“However, the banks prevailed and solicitors are now faced with adding this charge to clients’ money held in solicitor client accounts.”

“This conference ensures that local solicitors can stay up-to-date on this issue and provides practical advice for solicitors on how to implement it correctly and stay compliant,” he said.

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