The death of 62-year-old Judge Philpott, a former Recorder of Londonderry and the incumbent Deputy Recorder of belfast, was announced at Londonderry Crown Court.

The “pioneer” was one of the first women Queen’s Counsel and the first woman appointed to the County Court in Northern Ireland.

John Guerin, president of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, said: “The Law Society of Northern Ireland is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of the Her Honour Judge Philpott QC. Judge Philpott will be remembered for her long and distinguished legal career.

“Her humanity on the bench was one of her many strong qualities and was evident to all who appeared before her or knew her.

“Her hard working nature, steady hand and dedication to the law and principles of justice are lasting contributions to our justice system. She will be sadly missed by her many friends and colleagues.

“On behalf of Law Society of Northern Ireland I wish to offer our condolences to Judge Philpott’s family during this most difficult of times.”

Gerry McAlinden QC, chair of The Bar of Northern Ireland, said: “The passing of our esteemed colleague, Her Honour Judge Corinne Philpott QC has brought deep sadness to the Bar of Northern Ireland.

“Judge Philpott was a quite simply a pioneer of the profession, being one of our first female Queen’s Counsel and the first female appointed to the County Court in Northern Ireland.

“From her days, both at the Bar and the Bench, we remember her generosity of spirit, her deep sense of humanity and her unfailing commitment to serve the interests of justice.

“Her presence will be keenly missed by all who knew her and we offer our deepest condolences to our colleague and her husband, David and their family at this very sad time.”