Over 100 solicitors from across County Kerry will gather at the Ballygarry House Hotel on Thursday (8 September) for a learning and networking event tailored to meet the needs of the local area.

They will be attending the Essential Solicitors’ Update Kerry 2016, hosted by the Kerry Law Society and Law Society Skillnet. The seminar is part of a nationwide programme of cluster events taking place throughout the country this year.

Describing the event, Law Society of Ireland Director of Representation Teri Kelly said, “Local solicitors have identified a range of legal issues - including family law, the Legal Services Regulation Act, company law and data protection – as being of key importance for the region. Experts on these topics will deliver updates and highlight recent developments in the law and provide a forum for discussion and debate.”

Local perspective

Tralee solicitor John Galvin is the president of the Kerry Law Society. His firm is based in Ashe Street, Tralee.

Mr Galvin says that the health of the local economy can often be measured by taking a look at the business coming into solicitors’ offices.

“Here in Kerry we are seeing some recovery in the form of ‘trickle-down economics’ – but we are still waiting for the trickle to become a stream!”

“There is a sense that the tourism industry overall is leading the recovery in the county. This provides a knock-on opportunity for local businesses to grow and expand. The Wild Atlantic Way has played a significant role in opening Kerry up to a wider, international visitor base, particularly the smaller areas that wouldn’t be well-known.”

“Kerry solicitors are also seeing an increase in conveyancing business. Increased house-buying would tend to indicate an upturn in the overall economy of the area.”

He notes that house-buying has become much more complex in recent years. “It is important that anyone buying a house is aware that there may be a number of potential issues involved in the transaction, which could lead to delays.”

“I would advise everyone to speak to their solicitor early in the buying or selling process. He or she will be able to advise if there are any concerns around a particular property - as well as the many new charges that have come into force since the recession; there may be some legacy issues that require extra attention.”

Teri Kelly says, “In designing this seminar, Kerry Law Society and Law Society Skillnet have been guided strongly by what the people of Kerry need from their solicitors.”

“It is important for the Law Society to reach out to our members around the country. These cluster events allow us to tailor our seminars around the particular needs of local solicitors and the local communities they serve.”

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