Patrick Carty

Why ByrneWallace LLP?

I decided to apply to ByrneWallace LLP due to its reputation as being one of Ireland’s largest and most dynamic full-service law firms. During the application process, I was impressed by the level of resources and attention that the firm invests in its trainees. This is particularly the case with one-to-one partner supervision, which ensures that your experience at the firm is tailored to both your interest and needs. Despite its growing size, ByrneWallace LLP continues to maintain a familial environment and considers its trainees not only as essential members of staff, but also the partners of the future. As a trainee, you will have the opportunity to work with some of the leading practitioners in their field and clients who span the commercial and public spectrum.

ByrneWallace LLP prides itself on its work/life balance and this has been evident to me through the very active Sports & Social Club. The firm regularly organises social events to ensure that you have the opportunity to not only build relationships with those within your department, but also those across the wider firm. 

Describe your rotations to date

Prior to commencing Blackhall, I completed a pre-seat in the Commercial Litigation Department. During this rotation, I worked with all members of the team on issues concerning various clients in both the public and private sector. As for the latter, the Litigation team at ByrneWallace LLP advises some of the largest and most important public bodies in Ireland. This enabled me to gain experience in areas such as judicial review, statutory interpretation, injunctions, public procurement, risk advisory, regulatory investigations and enforcement actions. My work here generally involved in-depth legal research, drafting pleadings and assisting with client advices. I was involved in matters concerning commercial clients in more nuanced areas such as data protection and intellectual property law. 

Having returned from Blackhall, I am currently working in the Health Services Department which is ranked as top tier by the Legal 500. The Health Services Team are engaged in multidisciplinary work and to date, I have been involved in a number of matters concerning child protection, mental health and disability law, and regulatory compliance. 

My rotations in Commercial Litigation and Health Services has afforded me the opportunity to attend court from the District level all the way up to the Court of Appeal. This has given me a unique insight into court procedures and has provided me with a practical understanding of the relationship between solicitors and barristers and how a case is run. I have been provided with countless opportunities to attend court and team members are always willing to explain the legal issues which are in dispute. 

Future at ByrneWallace LLP

While I was somewhat apprehensive about what to expect when returning to the office, I was provided with fantastic support which ensured a smooth transition back into the work environment. I am now thoroughly enjoying my time with the Health Services team and look forward to exploring my other potential interests during my next rotation in December.