Martin Lawlor is 156th Law Society President
Wexford solicitor Martin Lawlor has been appointed as President of the Law Society for the year 2026/2027, with effect from Friday 6 November.
The managing partner of Coghlan Kelly solicitors in New Ross, Co Wexford, becomes the 156th president of the Law Society.
A native of New Ross, the new president acquired his first legal practice in 1986, serving the needs of communities in Wexford, South Kilkenny, and Waterford.
He will serve a one-year term as President of the Law Society, representing almost 13,000 practising solicitors, until November 2027.
Accredited mediator
Lawlor mainly practises litigation and dispute resolution – including property and will disputes – for private clients.
In addition, he is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, a Notary Public, and a CEDR-accredited mediator.
Having started out in the District Court, he now practises only in the Circuit Court and High Court.
"It is a great honour to take on the role of President of the Law Society of Ireland for the coming 12 months. Is mór an onóir dom glacadh le ról Uachtarán Dlí Chumann na hÉireann don 12 mhí atá romhainn,” Martin Lawlor stated.
Sole practitioners’ contribution
“I am particularly conscious of the significant contribution that sole practitioners and smaller firms make to their local communities, and of the distinct challenges and opportunities associated with practising in these settings.
“However, supporting, representing and advocating for all solicitors, rural and urban, across the country will be a key priority during my presidency,” he stated.
The new president said that he understood first-hand the importance of local legal practices and the communities they served.
“Being entrusted with the responsibility of representing the solicitors’ profession, both in Ireland and internationally, is something I do not take for granted. I am mindful of the importance of this role and will carry out my responsibilities with commitment, integrity, and a genuine sense of duty,” Lawlor stated.
Opportunity
He added that he looked forward to supporting and advancing the Law Society’s work in the interests of both the public and legal profession.
“Working collaboratively, we have an opportunity to strengthen and develop a justice system that is responsive to the needs of the people and communities it serves.
The knowledge and expertise within the solicitors’ profession, together with the dedication of the Law Society and our stakeholders, will be central to building a justice system that is fair, accessible, and future-focused,” he said.
“I look forward to continuing the excellent work of those who have held this office before me and to serving the profession with meaningful purpose and commitment,” the new president concluded.