---

An open door

As a growing profession that needs to meet the changing needs of those we represent, it’s important to continue finding ways to make it easier for people from diverse backgrounds to consider a career as a solicitor, writes Eamon Harrington.

A continuing priority for the Law Society is to find ways of bringing more diversity to the profession so we can be truly representative of the public we serve, while also ensuring that legal services are available in all communities.

We already have several successful initiatives in place that are making an impact.

The media recently reported on a Wexford solicitor who shared his inspiring journey to qualification – thanks to the financial support provided by the Law Society’s Access Programme. Something that seemed impossible for him became a reality.

Since 2001, this scholarship programme has assisted over 400 people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds with their course fees. Many of them have successfully qualified as solicitors.

Education evolution

It’s been some years since I studied at Blackhall Place, but I’ve noticed that the flexibility of the education offering has evolved considerably.

Trainee solicitors from around the country can now apply for the hybrid version of the Professional Practice Course, allowing them to stay in full-time employment while training.

Numbers have doubled since the launch of the hybrid course in 2019. Its accessibility has clearly appealed to mature trainees, those with family and other caring commitments, and those based outside Dublin who can train to be a lawyer while remaining in their home communities.

Next year, the PPC hybrid course will be restructured to allow trainees who wish to become solicitors to study part-time. The course will take longer to complete, but should work very well for those with other responsibilities or who struggle with challenging socio-economic circumstances.

€125k grant scheme

Students, of course, need a traineeship before they can start their course. To support sole practitioners and smaller rural practices, a Law Society grant scheme worth €125,000 has been providing support to five trainees in regional areas each year since 2020.

This enables rural practices to grow their businesses and ensure continuity of service to their communities.

Applications have recently closed for 2025, and the five eligible practices will soon welcome their new trainees, who will begin the next PPC or PPC Hybrid course.

To further encourage others into the profession, I am happy to report that the Law Society is exploring a new solicitor-apprenticeship model for school leavers. The apprentices would work in law firms, gaining experience over a number of years and earning qualifications before ultimately qualifying as solicitors.

A similar model is popular with firms in England and Wales, and it has had a positive impact on improving diversity and equality in the profession there.

These different pathways will also help to tackle issues like recruitment, retention of solicitors, and succession planning for practices in all counties.

Calcutta Run

Having recently taken part in the Calcutta Run in Dublin and Cork, it was heartening to see so many colleagues, friends, and family members supporting these events. Congratulations, too, to Galway on hosting its first Calcutta Run!

On behalf of our worthy charities, I wish to thank all of our wonderful volunteers and participants for making this legal fundraiser such a success, and one that will make a significant difference to homeless people in Ireland and India. To donate, visit: www.idonate.ie/event/calcuttarun2025.  

Eamon Harrington is President of the Law Society of Ireland