The Law Society has published an updated Guide for In-House Solicitors Employed in the Corporate and Public Sectors.

Law Society President Maura Derivan has thanked the Law Society’s In-house and Public Sector Committee for their work on the sixth edition of the guide.

The guide takes account of the different perspectives and requirements of in-house solicitors in the private and public sectors.

"To work as an in-house solicitor in Ireland at the present time is an ever-changing, challenging, and exciting experience," said President Derivan.

As the Irish economy evolves, the sector has expanded.

At the time of publication, in-house solicitors in the private and public sectors comprised approximately 25% of Law Society's membership and 23% of practicing-certificate holders.

"The Law Society is very aware of the need to provide support to this important segment of the profession," the president added.

In-house solicitors will have one client: the State, a company, or an organization that employs them.

Each in-house solicitor's role is unique and may involve a multiplicity of roles depending on the circumstances, for example, legal advisor, business support, and company secretary.

Conflicts of interest

However, the independence of the in-house solicitor remains of critical importance, given the possibility of pressures and potential conflicts of interest.

The updated guide refers to the practical issues that may confront the in-house solicitor in fulfilling their duties, such as instructing external legal advisors, professional practice issues that may be encountered, as well as support services available to the in-house solicitor.

The guide is now available on the  Law Society's website.