Around 100 solicitors from across County Mayo and Connaught are gathering at the Breaffy House Hotel today (29 September) and tomorrow (30 September) for a learning and networking event tailored to meet the needs of the local area.

They will be attending the Connaught Solicitors’ Symposium 2016, hosted by the Mayo Bar Association 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, taxation and probate – 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

Swinford solicitor Brendan Donnelly is President of the Mayo Bar Association. His firm is based in Davitt Place, Swinford.

Mr Donnelly 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 Mayo we are seeing some recovery in the form of ‘trickle-down economics’ – but we are still waiting for the trickle to become a stream.”

“Mayo 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. It is also important that people are aware of the complex legal issues involved in the purchase or sale of a property.”

“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, the Mayo Bar Association and Law Society Skillnet have been guided strongly by what the people of Mayo and Connaught 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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