The challenges facing solicitors and their clients do not stop at jurisdictional boundaries. From access to legal advice and the future of smaller practices to the growing influence of artificial intelligence, many of the issues affecting the legal profession are shared across Ireland and Britain.
These challenges were among the subjects discussed at the recent Four Jurisdictions meeting, hosted by the Law Society of Ireland at Blackhall Place in Dublin.
The meeting brought together representatives of the Law Society of Ireland, the Law Society of Northern Ireland, the Law Society of Scotland and the Law Society of England and Wales.
Eoghan McKenna, Director of MSM Law and Junior Vice President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, attended alongside colleagues from the four professional bodies.
Discussions covered the pressures facing smaller legal practices, regulation, artificial intelligence, legal aid and the rule of law.
Protecting Access to Justice
One of the most important shared challenges is ensuring that people can continue to access independent legal advice, particularly in communities where local legal services are under pressure.
Smaller practices play a vital role in providing legal support to individuals, families and businesses. Their sustainability is therefore not simply a concern for the profession. It is an access-to-justice issue affecting the communities they serve.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on the opportunities and responsibilities associated with artificial intelligence, alongside the importance of maintaining public confidence in the legal profession.
Eoghan McKenna said, “What struck me about the discussions in Dublin was how many challenges we share across the four jurisdictions. Access to justice, the sustainability of smaller practices and the responsible use of new technology are issues that affect us all. By sharing experiences and working more closely together, we can help strengthen the profession and protect the interests of the people and communities we serve.”
For MSM Law, these discussions reflect a wider commitment to accessible legal services, professional collaboration and the importance of listening to the needs of both solicitors and the people they represent.
While each jurisdiction has its own legal system, the value of sharing experience and working together is clear.
Protecting access to justice is a responsibility that extends beyond borders.
No drama. Just clear legal advice.
