Last week, we were happy to host our Annual Conference: Challenges and Opportunities for In-House Counsel at King’s Inns.

The event opened with a warm welcome and address from The Hon. Mr Justice Oisín Quinn, Judge of the High Court, followed by Mr Jim O’Callaghan TD, Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, who reflected on his time as a student and barrister, and spoke about the evolving role of legally trained professionals:

“It is extremely important that we see qualified barristers not just working in the courts, but across the economy and public service… The legal world is changing, and your presence here is evidence of that.”

Our panels explored some of the most pressing themes shaping the in-house legal landscape today:

🔹 AI in Law – featuring insights from Ruud van Herpen (Xebia Group), Pádraig Ó’Ríordáin (CRH plc), Julie Galbraith (Arachas Corporate Brokers), Etaoin Harbinson (hyperexponential), Brian McElligott (Mason Hayes & Curran), Dr Barry Scannell (William Fry LLP & AI Advisory Council), Russell Kane, Lee Bristow (Saros Consulting), and Deirdre Ardagh (Three).

As Dr Scannell noted:

“Before November 2022, AI was often seen as science fiction. Today, it impacts every faculty, every industry, and every professional field.”

🔹 Regulation Panel – with Tony Watson (Legal Services Regulatory Authority) and Sara George (Bar Council of England and Wales).

🔹 Wellbeing and Resilience for Legal Professionals – led by Michelle O’Keeffe (Platform 55), highlighting the importance of mental wellbeing and balance in legal careers:

"In the legal profession where the standard is excellent every day, rest will be like a failure. So, how can you take rest, how can you find time for yourself when you need it? Find the thing that resets you, that makes you feel good, a breathing exercise, a good conversation, whatever makes you fell better."

A huge thank you to all our speakers, panellists, and exhibitors — Office of the Attorney General, DPP, DPC and Brightwater for making the day such a success.

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