Ms Burns was admitted as a solicitor in 1984 and had worked over her career at Donnelly & Kinder Solicitors, Tughans, JG Haughey & Co. Solicitors, EJ Lavery Solicitors and Haugheys Solicitors.

The Law Society of Northern Ireland has extended its condolences to Ms Burns’s family, friends and colleagues.

Her remains will arrive at St Agnes’ Church on Friday for 2pm Requiem Mass, then afterwards to Roselawn Crematorium for service at 5pm.

Ms Burns has expressed a desire that mourners attend both services, and has also expressed a desire for there to be no flowers.

Anyone wishing to make a donation in lieu of flowers can do so to Action Cancer or The NI Hospice c/o Dominick Healy & Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, 252-254 Falls Road, Belfast, BT12 6AL.