Grace Reddan

Grace Reddan, a native of Borrisokane, Co Tipperary, who was since graduated, was assigned to a judge in the Criminal Courts of Justice for the duration of the placement, which included LIT for the first time.

Although most of the programme was run remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms Reddan was invited to attend the court once physical distancing measures were put in place.

She had the opportunity to sit in on cases taking place in the courts over the two-week period, varying from bail hearings and sentencing, on top of taking part in lectures, Q&As and workshops with judges and lawyers.

“Before taking part in the programme I had chosen to do a Master’s in law but I didn’t have any plan on what to do next,” Ms Reddan said.

“Following on from the programme I have now decided I do want to work within the courts and I finally have a career plan in place.

“There is a buzz around the courts, albeit on a scaled-back basis due to COVID-19, and I am keen to get back to sitting in on court cases as soon as possible.”

Ann-Marie Dooley, solicitor and lecturer in law at LIT, said: “We are very grateful to the Chief Justice for affording the opportunity to LIT Law and Tax students for such an immersive, open and facilitating approach to the day to day workings of the senior judiciary.”

Criminal law lecturer Dr PJ Ryan added: “[Grace] expressed a zeal and enthusiasm for the complex multifaceted aspects of criminal law combined with a desire to understand through reading and application that is the hallmark of a good law student.

“She was unwilling to merely accept but rather applied her considerable analytical skills to develop her own reasoning – an approach that will serve her will in her future legal career.”