The Law Society of Ireland is saddened by the death of solicitor, past president, and friend, James MacGuill SC

Over a 40-year career, James was one of the country's most prominent litigation solicitors, with a particular focus on public law and criminal defence law. He represented clients in landmark cases in both Ireland and Europe, including representing a defendant in Ireland’s first ever criminal prosecution for female genital mutilation.

His passion for criminal law and human rights law show the people-centred approach he applied to his work. James embodied the core of what it means to be a solicitor – to achieve the object of justice for any person who needs it.

The contribution James has made to the Law Society, the solicitors’ profession, and Irish law is immeasurable. His sound judgment, advice, and wit will be missed by colleagues.

James's career and beliefs can be summed up in a quote from a Law Society Gazette interview when he was appointed President of the Law Society in 2007, "The greatest satisfaction for me in being a solicitor is where your client is the person against whom all the odds are stacked – but has justice on their side.”

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Ní neart go cur le chéile.