Timing
He feels that early- to mid-career is an excellent time to get involved in Council and lists the many benefits that have accrued to him from service.
His election followed several years of involvement in the Law Society, starting as a trainee, when he worked closely in ByrneWallace LLP with long-standing committee member and 2021/22 President Michelle Ní Longáin SC.
“Michelle and I worked very closely together, so I was able to see the variety of work that she did for Council and various Law Society Committees, and the level of dedication that she put into the job.
“I found it intriguing, because of the exposure to issues that wouldn’t normally cross my desk as a specialist employment lawyer,” Donal explained.
Council service allows one to see under the bonnet of the issues that are important to practitioners throughout the country.
He points to the hot topic of the rollout of digital administration for enduring powers of attorney (EPAs), which is of huge importance to many practitioners and is certainly one that is of public interest.
Perspective
“On the Council, you get a broader perspective on the legal profession, and exposure to a lot of different issues beyond one’s day-to-day work. You get to see how decisions are made, and you are part of those decisions,” Donal adds.
Donal had a long-standing interest in legal education, going back to his days as HLJ volume 12 editor.
He is happy to serve on both the Education, and Employment and Equality Law Committees.
Reading
Hamilton is realistic about the volume of preparatory reading required prior to committee and Council meetings, particularly in an unfamiliar sphere, but says that it becomes easier over time.
“The time commitment can be challenging on top of the busy-ness of work and life, but it becomes increasingly manageable as you read into the job, as familiar patterns and issues start to emerge,” he said.
On the Education Committee, he was pleasantly surprised at the empathy and compassion behind decision-making.
“The Education Committee plays a critical role in furthering the Law Society’s education initiatives, but also deals with members on CPD compliance and other matters.
"In doing so, it helps and supports members, some of whom are in difficult circumstances or suffering from ill-health, as best it can, while upholding and maintaining the required standards,” he noted.
Exposure
Hamilton encourages other solicitors to run for Council, to get this type of exposure to the wider perspective on the legal profession.
“Overall, it's been an extremely positive experience. I’m still reading into the job but I'm really enjoying it so far and I absolutely encourage others to get involved because it is an important role.
“I think it's important that everybody who has an interest puts their hat in the ring, because broad representation is key to the future of the profession,” Donal Hamilton said.