McCann FitzGerald claims FT awards for innovation in the business of law

Barry Devereux

The firm took away three honours in the category for its partnership with Women’s Aid, its development of cutting edge legal services technology, and the creation of a new People Services division.

The partnership with Women’s Aid saw 40 solicitors led by employment partner Mary Brassil provide a legal information and assistance clinic to support women experiencing domestic violence who are representing themselves in domestic violence and family law proceedings.

Speaking at the awards, Barry Devereux, managing partner of McCann FitzGerald, said: “Accessing legal aid is often not an option for women experiencing domestic violence, given the huge delays in the legal aid system. At McCann FitzGerald, we believe that it is important that we have a positive impact on the communities where we work by supporting projects that help those most in need.

“This partnership with Women’s Aid shows how corporate law firms can use their skills and expertise for the benefit of some of the most vulnerable individuals in our society.”

The firm was also recognised for its work in developing AI-driven client solutions, including a GDPR gap-analysis app, using software by Neota Logic.

Further commendations were also awarded to McCann FitzGerald for its creation of a people services division, a formalisation of its secondment programme that allows the firm to fulfil clients’ demands in an agile manner, without impacting internal teams.

Separately, McCann FitzGerald was recognised for its work advising Greencoat Capital on the acquisition of two wind farms and the subsequent listing of its operating company.