Arthur Cox fields a diverse public law practice which is well-versed in advising state, semi-state and other public bodies on matters ranging from high-profile inquiries and judicial reviews to the development of major energy and infrastructure projects. Another significant area of expertise lies in advising the Irish government on the establishment of schemes to address the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the housing crisis; Maura McLaughlin is a standout name in this regard. Joanelle O’Cleirigh leads the litigation and investigations side of the practice, while Aaron Boyle focuses on infrastructure and procurement. Kate O’Donohoe is also noted for her provision of advice to statutory bodies.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Maura McLaughlin's advice is always well thought-out, on-point and easy to understand. She takes the time to really listen to the issues and concerns so that she can deliver the best possible solution in the circumstances.'

Key clients

  • Minister for Finance
  • Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage
  • National Treasury Management Agency
  • EirGrid
  • ESB
  • Coillte
  • daa Plc
  • Bord na Móna
  • Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland
  • Land Development Agency
  • Child & Family Agency (Tusla)
  • Irish Blood Transfusion Service
  • Cork County Council
  • Bord Iascaigh Mhara
  • Central Bank of Ireland
  • Ervia
  • Office of Public Works
  • Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland
  • Mental Health Commission
  • Dental Council
  • Home Building Finance Ireland
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • Irish Rail
  • An Post
  • Future Energy Ireland
  • RTÉ

Work highlights

  • Appointed as lead adviser to the Pandemic Stabilisation and Recovery Fund, a sub-fund of the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund which is owned by the Minister for Finance, on the structuring and documentation of its investments.
  • Managing all legal services for the Child and Family Agency (Tusla).
  • Advising the Land Development Agency on its operations, including construction law, property law and planning issues, procurement and other related matters, to address Ireland’s housing needs.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Rising stars with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Arthur Cox
Joanelle works for a broad range of clients, particularly those in the healthcare, life sciences, and regulated sectors. Joanelle also advises clients in relation to inquiries and investigations. Joanelle’s Corporate Crime experience includes advising in relation to the conduct of investigations and inquiries; some of Ireland’s most significant Tribunals of Inquiry, Commissions of Investigation; and on some of the most complex and sensitive statutory and corporate investigations. Her healthcare/life sciences expertise includes advising on: contractual issues; disputes/closure of services; HIQA regulations; HPRA and Compliance; investigations/reviews/look-backs and product recalls; medical negligence cross border healthcare; constitutional law; privacy and data issues; capacity and consent; wardship; maternity services child protection.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Joanelle O’Cleirigh, Aaron Boyle

Other key lawyers

Maura McLaughlin, Alex McLean, Danielle Conaghan, Richard Ryan, Niamh McGovern, Kate O'Donoghoe, Golda Hession