Healthcare and life sciences in Ireland

‘Our organisation is a long standing client of A&L Goodbody, which is itself a testament to our high level of satisfaction with the service they provide. The knowledge base within A&L Goodbody is extensive and any interactions my colleagues and/or I have had with A&L Goodbody personnel have been hallmarked by their attention to detail and even when on occasion they are delivering advice that may be unwelcome they do so in a collegiate manner.’

‘Readily available and the excellent advice and support provided by Cliona Christle was exhaustive and thorough. Cliona’s knowledge of our sector is second to none in Ireland. The project was lengthy and involved a high degree of detail – Cliona was absolutely central to the successful conclusion of the project.’

‘We have had dealing with Arthur Cox over many years and, without fail, their service has been of a consistently high standard. Their capacity to adapt to quickly changing circumstances is first class and during Covid their engagement with us was managed in a way that ensured first class service at all times. Their teamwork approach ensures that all necessary departments seamlessly engage in activities relating to any particular issue.’

‘Arthur Cox is very professional and I do have a lot of business with Arthur Cox. They are very precise and clear in the way they deal with us as a customer. We see them as a partner to our business.’

‘Great communication with details of each litigation matter under representation. Sets realistic expectations and looks for solutions that do not always involve spending more money.’

‘Their personal availability to us at all times is highly valued by us as is their seamless interaction between departments and individuals. They have worked with us particularly in the areas of Healthcare, Litigation and property and have managed a low key approach in recent high profile controversies. Joanelle O’Cleirigh is our key contact and has provided us consistently with a wise and valued service.’

‘We have regular catch-ups on litigation matters that are being handled by the team I work with. I always feel that I am in a good place of understanding what we are currently doing and what our next steps are. Joanelle O’Cleirigh, Leanne Dolan and Kerry Corbett work very well together as a team and provide outstanding counsel.’

‘The partner we deal with, Ryan Ferry, gives amazing attention to our company whether it’s day, evening or night. He has a great knowledge of the Pharma and Life sciences industry that we are in. They always give a clear answer and a clear roadmap.’

‘Excellent team – highly responsive, reliable and high level of expertise in the area of healthcare, particularly around capacity and mental disorder-related issues.’

‘Best in the country when it comes to Life Science and Healthcare legal matters.’

‘The Byrne Wallace team have excellent experience of the Life Sciences area. Particular experience in Licensing Agreements, and especially in finding creative solutions during the final stages of negotiations. Very good at working to deadlines for transactions. Documentation review and quality control strong, making client activities as straightforward and fool proof as possible.’

‘Colin Sainsbury is polite, friendly and highly professional in all matters. Colin’s experience in such negotiations was obvious from the outset. The deliverables speak for themselves. As legal counsel there is a clear recognition that we are seeking to build a long-lasting relationship.’

‘Patrick McLean – hardworking, reliable, efficient, accessible and excellent communicator. Olive Doyle – thorough and expert in her field of healthcare, particularly with regard to capacity and psychiatric disorder -related issues.’

‘Olive Doyle has a comprehensive knowledge of the broader legal and corporate environment in which healthcare decisions are made, and is very committed to guiding and advising clients to optimal outcomes. Patrick McClean has a particular ability in dealing with highly urgent complex cases, and manages to ensure that fully informed decisions are made in very short timeframes.’

‘Colin Sainsbury has very extensive experience in life sciences that has been invaluable in finalising negotiations.’

‘Catherine Dowling is great to work with.’

‘This practice provides an excellent service to their clients. The team are all very professional and helpful. Their knowledge of the healthcare sector and experience in dealing with claims on behalf of the HSE supersedes other practices.’

‘Hayes have a long tradition in the management of medical negligence litigation and the firm is one of the most trusted firms in the defence of medical negligence claims. In addition, Hayes have established a first class reputation with hospitals’ medical staff and medical experts and this is a great ease to the client. Each of the team is accomplished in the defence of medical negligence cases and it is this strength in depth which places Hayes as the leader in the field of medical negligence law firms.’

‘In Hayes, its partners deal with litigation and each of the partners is suitably well-skilled in the defence of medical negligence litigation. Also, Hayes has a tremendous support team to assist the partner managing the litigation. One couldn’t but have great confidence in this firm and the manner in which it manages litigation.’

‘Experience and knowledge of their field of specialisation.’

‘Hayes Solicitors offer an excellent team of highly skilled and experienced lawyers to provide services in the Healthcare and life sciences sector.’

‘The team are extremely professional and highly skilled. They have a vast depth of experience and are aware of how to adequately meet their clients’ needs.’

‘Excellent team, Caroline Crowley, Mary Hough, Martha Wilson, Katy Meade, all great to work with, client management superb and always on top of their brief.’

‘For medical – legal issues we are normally represented by Brian Horkan and his Fiona McNulty. They are easy to access and work tirelessly to provide practical solutions to complex legal and ethical issues.  They explain difficult legal principles in ways that are easy to understand by medical professionals who are not familiar with the legal process.  The clinical teams trust their judgement, advice and solutions.  They were always available to assist with questions/queries and provided feedback to the team.  They have a great understanding of the health service and give practical legal advice to any query that is raised.  They have access to excellent senior and junior counsel.’

‘Catherine Allen and Riannagh Morris – they are both extremely accessible, knowledgeable and always provide advice in a timely fashion.’

‘The team is excellent and demonstrates great availability and resourcefulness. The firm has also been very creative in its billing practices.’

‘The McCann FitzGerald Competition, Regulatory and Company Secretarial teams have all provided excellent advice in an efficient and swift manner. Their use of technology to overcome the difficulties experienced over the last couple of years has been beneficial.’

‘The lawyers we work with in McCann FitzGerald are very knowledgeable, helpful and supportive of our needs in this area. Paul Lavery is our lead contact and he and his team work with us on a variety of matters in this area. In addition to the qualities already mentioned they are all very hard working, turn material around very quickly and make themselves available for discussions/consultations at very short notice.’

‘What is really helpful and which can be overlooked is the ability to be able to speak to non-lawyers and explain complex legal matters in a way that doesn’t have to be amended. Solution driven and not afraid to make a decision on grey areas. The individuals I have spoken to have been incredibly approachable, responsive and well received by non-legal stakeholders too.’

‘David Lydon and Niall Best (New York) stand out as having key industry knowledge and expertise in this sector. For us, their advice is tailored with the pharma industry in mind which makes it easier for clients to digest. Their practical approach is highly valued as is their ability to explain and provide complicated information to a varied audience . They are reliable and accessible. A positive feature is that they are are in different timezones (Dublin and new York offices) which is great for time sensitive matters when they can act as a team to keep the work moving or for dealing with our US based colleagues.’

‘Shane O’Brien – Efficient, experienced in pharma patent litigation, knowns the business, pragmatic approach, experience in collaboration with counsel in multi-jurisdictional disputes, open to discussion, responsive.’

‘I have worked closely with the McCann Fitzgerald team (Shane O’Brien and Fiona O’Beirne) on several matters, including recent patent/SPC litigation. I have been really impressed. They were both a pleasure to work with, extremely collaborative and providing excellent input at all stages. Their calmness and experience always gave the impression that the case was in good hands. I was especially impressed by their eagerness and ability to get deep into the technical details of a complex pharma case.’

‘William Fry are well-renowned for their life sciences practice. The team has particular expertise in life sciences patent litigation. They are responsive and highly diligent as well as being friendly to work with. They are often engaged in substantial cross-border patent litigation matters working in close and fruitful collaboration with patent litigation teams in other jurisdictions. They also bring to bear their broader knowledge of life sciences legal issues in conducting patent litigation. The team are also refreshingly diverse in gender in the patent litigation field which can often be dominated by males.’

‘A reliable focused team, they have always provided us with very detailed work. Practical, focused, experienced providing honest advice with strong detailed legal knowledge and guidance. A personable and reliable team with passion and commitment for each case.’

‘Laura Scott and Charleen O’Keeffe are both highly recommended partners.’

‘Laura Scott is a senior partner who is an experienced leader in Irish patent litigation focusing on the life sciences sector. She is very hands-on and takes a deep, keen interest in litigation she is conducting. She is also a pleasure to work with and very collaborative. She is therefore a ‘go-to’ choice when identifying Irish counsel for life sciences patent litigation.’

‘Charleen O’Keefe is an enthusiastic, energetic partner who demonstrates strategic thinking and a keen interest in ensuring that her clients prevail in their litigation. She is sure to be a star of the future in Irish life sciences patent litigation.’

‘I’ve worked with Charleen O’Keeffe over a number of years, she is an experienced partner, personable, reliable, practical, focused, gives honest advice with strong, detailed legal guidance. Shows a true passion and commitment for each case, and is always a pleasure to deal with.’

‘Fiona Barry and Mary Cooney were excellent in accepting instructions in a sensitive and high value case. Their results, under significant time pressures, were first rate.’

‘CKT have considerable experience in managing cases related to the Disability Act (2005). They have built up significant knowledge and expertise in this area. This supports a consistent response to all of these cases across the country.’

‘What sets Comyn Kelleher Tobin apart from other firms is the strength of the team across the board. Each individual solicitor in the team is of the highest caliber and their combined forces offer something unique among comparable firms.’

‘Eamon Harrington – responsive and detailed, along with his vast experience. Alison Kelliher – excellent solicitor, impressive attention to detail and depth of knowledge. Patrice O’Keeffe – a very experienced and knowledgeable solicitor.’

‘Alison Kelleher, Patrice O’Keeffe, Hilda O’Keeffe, Yvonne Joyce and Eamon Harrington all deserve mention. Their professionalism and case preparation is simply unmatched in the industry.’

‘Eamon Harrington leads the team by example. A vastly experienced, pragmatic and commercially focused practitioner. He is always available and generous with his insights.’

‘Patrice O’Keeffe is a very able and trusted partner. She is proactive, responsive and measured. We rely heavily on Patrice.’

‘Yvonne Joyce is a very strong performer who delivers consistently excellent advice. She is technically strong in areas like data protection, and the law on confidentiality and consent.’

‘Katharine Kelleher is the doyenne of the healthcare solicitors, and this is reflected in the quality of her instructions. Clients trust her implicitly, and there is nothing she would not do for them. The results speak for themselves.’

‘The firm has capability across all disciplines of law to service clients of all types as well as access to an international network within Eversheds to cater for all international needs.’

‘The team is very strong on technical advice which they combine with an in-depth knowledge of our business and commercial needs which allows for a really strong work product. They have an ability to distil complex legal issues and advise us on the right course to steer.’

‘Tony McGovern is an excellent business partner with significant corporate law experience and knowledge. He is personable and easy to deal with. He provides practical advice without trying to overcomplicate and over legalise matters.’

‘Tony McGovern – top notch, affable and business focused and gets the job done’

‘Aisling Gannon is an excellent lead partner and client focussed with best results achieved for clients.’

‘Aisling Gannon is an extremely capable leader in this practice, she is able to insightfully arrive at the key issues for resolution in the cases she deals with.’

‘Marie McGinley is always on top of her brief and her expertise and experience means we have confidence nothing is overlooked.

‘Gerard Ryan is excellent in terms of marshalling and co-ordinating the experts and then providing the layer of strategic guidance of what to do and when.’

‘An unusually strong, knowledgeable, passionate and committed team. They get to the crux of the matter very quickly. No frills or racking up costs with this team. One of the most remarkable things about the team is their ability to bring a speedy resolution to claims. They are the most impressive team I have seen in my 28 years experience of healthcare litigation. We have clients who repeatedly ask for them.’

‘Joanne O’Sullivan (Partner) is a great communicator. She is a strong leader and has great integrity. She listens and is respectful. Not only do our clients hold her in high regard but also her own team.’

‘David McKechnie specialises in advising and assisting doctors who have been complained to the Medical Council. He is at his best when the issues are complex and the stakes are high. He is very knowledgeable, incisive and resourceful. He takes no nonsense and is very calm under pressure.’

‘Very client-focused and friendly team. Shanna Dunne in particular stands out as going above and beyond for her clients.’

‘Shanna Dunne is excellent at keeping clients informed of progress on their claims and fighting to get the best results for her clients.’

‘Excellent presentational skills, concise delivery and explanations. Sound commercial aptitude.’

‘Responsive and commercial, understanding the client’s needs and tailoring the approach accordingly.’

‘Partner driven service with attention to detail. Very prompt response to any queries, great consistent service for clients. Experienced in all areas of healthcare practice and litigation.’

‘The healthcare team I deal with provide regular insights into the sector I am involved in, which keeps me appraised on potential developments and areas for growth. In an area of law which can be very complex their approach has always been very practical and easy to understand. Through the pandemic they have utilised their IT capabilities to maintain and ensure continuous contact.’

‘Fergal Dennehy intelligent, enthusiastic, professional hard working solicitor. Nothing is too much trouble for the client. Richard O’Brien, hard working, intelligent solicitor with great experience in litigation. Always available to assist with ongoing queries.’

‘Peter Groarke is the Partner in the Healthcare team I work with most. He has been and is always available to assist. He is very impressive in legal knowledge. He is engaging and supportive and has great interpersonal skills He is always up to date on the latest developments.’

‘Imelda Tierney is an exceptional person. She takes an interest in her clientele and is perceptive to their needs. I have observed Imelda providing much support and encouragement to witnesses, building rapport and trust. Imelda ensures she is well informed which results in her strong decision making abilities and strategic thinking. Imelda is highly regarded and frequently sought after due to her significant experience and extensive knowledge. She has excellent mediation skills based on mutual respect. A genuine and enthusiastic solicitor and a role model for junior staff.’

‘Padraic Brennan is a very knowledgeable and approachable member of the team at Ronan Daly Jermyn. Padraic has extensive experience which is evident in his strategic thinking and advocacy skills.’

‘Partners Imelda Tierney and Padraic Brennan provide dedicated support and advice. Her attention to detail and willingness to given her time and attention and to exhaust all issues to deliver a satisfactory outcome to all.’

‘I have worked with Fergal Dennehy , Peter Groarke and Richard O’ Brien during the last 5 years. These partners and the associate with whom I deal on a regular basis are highly innovative in deciding on strategy. Each of these lawyers takes a very detailed assessment and offers great insight into the problems facing clients. There is a comprehensive approach adopted to issues facing clients.’

‘Engaging and dynamic.’

‘Flexibility and availability.’

‘Very reactive to emergency requirements during the pandemic. Were willing to go the extra mile and ignore normal working hours to deliver results.’

‘Philip Lee – creative solution finder. Ronan Dunne – hard working and effective solicitor with substantial public procurement experience.’