MSM Law Director Eoghan McKenna was among representatives from the Law Society who appeared before the Justice Committee to give evidence on the Sentencing Bill and highlight the need for stronger protection for solicitors carrying out their professional duties.
The Law Society called for solicitor safety to be made a priority, warning that threats, abuse and attacks against solicitors do not only affect individual practitioners. They also risk undermining access to justice, the rule of law and public confidence in the justice system.
A recent Law Society survey found that 66% of respondents had experienced some form of threat or abuse in the course of their work, ranging from online harassment to physical attacks.
The Society welcomed the introduction of the Sentencing Bill, including the proposed new offence of assaulting a person delivering a public service. However, it urged that the Bill should be strengthened further to ensure a robust and consistent response to attacks on solicitors and other legal professionals.
Eoghan McKenna, Director at MSM Law, said:
“Solicitors often work with people at some of the most difficult moments in their lives. In family law and criminal law in particular, emotions can run high and the pressures can be significant.
Protecting solicitors is not only about personal safety. It is about protecting the ability of solicitors to do their job properly, support their clients and uphold access to justice every day.
We hope the Justice Committee will give these concerns serious consideration and help strengthen protections for solicitors and other frontline workers.”
At MSM Law, we believe clear legal advice depends on solicitors being able to do their work safely, professionally and without fear.
No drama. Just clear legal advice.
