Midlands solicitors were updated on essential areas of law such as conveyancing, probate and more.
Local supports
In February 2019, the Law Society announced its Small Practice Support Project – a strategic plan to support and develop smaller firms in rural and urban Ireland.
The report is based on extensive research involving a survey of hundreds of smaller law firms across Ireland.
It makes eleven strategic recommendations to assist sole practitioners and smaller practices to grow their businesses and achieve greater success for their clients, their firms and their local communities.
Last Friday’s conference was the second in a series of country-wide seminars designed for smaller practices, sole practitioners and local solicitors.
Economic drivers
Solicitor James McElwee of McElwee Solicitors, Mountmellick, Co Laois is President of the Laois Solicitors’ Association and highlighted the important role of the solicitor in the midlands region while attending the event.
Heart of local community
“Solicitors are at the heart of the local community in rural Ireland, particularly the midlands,” he said. “Local solicitors are our neighbours, business advisers, as well as legal experts.”
“The Law Society’s Small Practice Support Project recognises that smaller practices in the midlands have a distinct profile with specific support needs.
"We face similar challenges and opportunities that are common to other business owners and SMEs. As solicitors, we must be adept at running a business as well as practising law,” he said.
“It can often be a challenge to balance the demands of running a small practice with the need to stay up-to-date on legal trends and developments.”
He said the Midland General Practice Update 2019 conference provided the perfect opportunity for local solicitors to refresh their knowledge and network with other solicitors and small business owners in similar situations.
Topics
Probate was among the eight topics addressed this year, with probate expert Richard Hammond, of Hammond Good Solicitors addressing the attendees.
“Probate will affect every person at some stage of their life. If you are over 18 years of age, it is important to make a will at the earliest opportunity.
“Although a difficult subject to address, making a will, and keeping it up-to-date, can help to avoid heartbreak and confusion further down the line,” said McElwee.
“If you need to make a will, talk to your local solicitor for advice.”