Milford native David McGinley of McGinley Solicitors LLP was crowned Lawyer of the Year for Connacht/Ulster at the prestigious Irish Law Awards 2025.
The award capped off a hugely successful night for McGinley Solicitors as they had been nominated for six awards in total: Law Firm of the Year, Lawyer of the Year, Personal Injury Law / Medical Negligence Firm of the Year, Property Law Firm of the Year, Civil Litigation Law Firm of the Year, and Excellence in Communication.
On receiving the accolade, David said, “It’s a real honour to be recognised by the judging panel with this award. But more than anything, it’s a testament to the incredible team of colleagues I work with every day, their dedication and support is central to our practice.
“It was a particular privilege to share such a successful evening at the Law Awards with my parents, Margaret and Kyran, whose leadership of the practice helped secure six nominations this year. Their continued mentorship has been invaluable.”
Established by Margaret McGinley in Milford in 1988, McGinley Solicitors LLP has experienced significant growth and recognition over more than three decades. The firm expanded its presence in 1996 by opening an office in Letterkenny and further enhanced its national profile by establishing an office in Dublin in 2019.
Kyran, Keara, Margaret and David McGinley at the 2025 LEAP Irish Law Awards
Meanwhile, Gweedore native Natasha McDermott of McDermott Solicitors claimed the title of Sole Practitioner of the Year, marking a major milestone for her practice.
The Burt-based firm also celebrated a very successful night, after being shortlisted for Sole Practitioner of the Year, Lawyer of the Year, and Property Firm of the Year.
Sole Practitioner of the Year: Natasha McDermott, McDermott Solicitors, Co. Donegal
The LEAP Irish Law Awards highlight the extraordinary achievements of individuals, firms, and teams who demonstrate outstanding dedication, skill, and leadership in the practice of law.
This year’s ceremony brought together over 500 legal professionals from across the country, with an exceptionally high calibre of entries across 31 categories and included accolades for solicitors, barristers, legal executives, in-house legal teams, law schools, and students.
The event also proudly supported The Calcutta Run: the Legal Fundraiser, reinforcing the legal profession’s commitment to giving back and supporting those in need both in Ireland and abroad.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to former President of Ireland, Mrs Mary Robinson, honouring her remarkable contribution to law, human rights, and public service.
Shane Branagan, CEO of LEAP Legal Software — the awards’ sponsor — praised the calibre of this year’s nominees and winners: “The LEAP Irish Law Awards are an opportunity to recognise the people and firms who lead by example. These winners represent the future of legal practice in Ireland, and we’re proud to support an event that honours the profession’s highest standards.”
He added, “The 2025 awards once again demonstrated the resilience and ambition of Ireland’s legal community. As the profession continues to evolve, the awards serve as a reminder of the values that define great legal practice: integrity, service, innovation, and leadership.”
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