Future solicitor Fionntán O’Flynn is the happy recipient of the Scott Scholarship which provides a funding avenue for trainees.

The scholarship fund was set up by Ian Scott and named in memory of his late father, Frank Scott, who was a distinguished partner with Arthur Cox in Dublin.

O’Flynn is currently training with Brendan Kelly Solicitors, a general practice with offices in Falcarragh and Milford in County Donegal.

He says the award is a “delightful beginning” to his professional legal career.

Fees sponsorship

The Scott Scholarship provides full fees sponsorship to the successful candidate whether to complete a masters, or to attend the Law Society’s Professional Practice Course.

Ian Scott is a former managing partner at Arthur Cox, following in the footsteps of his father, the late Frank Scott.

Scott senior was one of a quartet or partners who managed the firm after founder Arthur Cox was ordained a priest and left for the missions in Zambia. 

The purpose of the scholarship is to promote lifelong legal education and fund future solicitors who, through their academic achievements, ethics, and vision, are judged deserving of financial support.

The scholarship award is assessed on a candidate’s academic achievement, their understanding of what is desired and expected of them upon admission to the Roll of Solicitors, and their intended future contribution to the wider legal community.

Students who have completed FE1s and wish to start PPC may apply for the scholarship through the Law Society’s Access Programme.

The application consists of the application form, a CV, and a personal statement, followed by an interview.

Ian Scott adjudicates on the successful candidate.

Accolade

“Being awarded the Scott Scholarship is a great personal accolade,” Fionntán told the Gazette.

“It feels rewarding to be acknowledged, understood, and so greatly supported by someone who has had a significant legal career of many years, spent practicing at the highest level.

“The scholarship allows me to focus directly on my professional progress and qualification by removing the financial burden which can be a barrier to entry within the profession.

“Also, the award allows me to remain in Donegal and work in my community."

Fionntán graduated with an LLB Hons Law Degree from Letterkenny Institute of Technology and then completed FE1s.

He is now doing the PPC Hybrid course which he describes as “a great initiative”, because it allows trainees to remain in their local  office while completing their professional qualification largely online.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to work in a general practice which touches upon a vast number of communities throughout the northwest of Ireland and further afield,” says Fionntán.

As a trainee, Fionntán deals with a wide range of legal practice areas.

However, he has a keen interest in civil litigation, and intends to direct his focus in that area upon qualification.

Best of luck Fionntán!