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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The individuals are complete experts in their chosen areas. They are also able to distil complex issues into language understandable for clients and deliver clear recommendations on the issues at hand.’
‘Compared with some other firms, Arthur Cox has a relatively large team of professionals working exclusively on pension matters. As a result, knowledgeable backup is available should the main contact be unavailable. A key strength of the Arthur Cox team is that their extensive pensions client base means that they will have seen most issues before and enables them to provide practical solutions to issues as they arise.’
‘Philip Smith and Sarah McCague are exceptional, experienced pension law professionals who listen to their clients, are easy to deal with, prompt in returning calls, have a practical mindset in providing advice and highly knowledgeable on pension matters. Clients are assured that the advice provided has been properly thought through and all angles covered.’
‘They develop a full understanding of the broader context and work with clients to find practical solutions.'
‘The team is highly accessible, they care about my issues and they deliver high quality work in line with my requirements.'
‘Sarah McCague is very approachable, friendly and always giving of her time. She adopts a pragmatic and sensible approach when faced with complex questions. She effectively uses her team to research the relevant issues and provide high-quality, focused advice in a cost effective manner.'
‘Philip Smith - Phil is a brilliant lawyer. He is very knowledgeable and delightfully considered and calm. He always sets clients at ease.'
‘I think the calibre of their people and their pensions knowledge is at the very highest level in the market.'
Key clients
- CRH plc
- Ulster Bank Ireland DAC
- Flutter Entertainment plc
- Vodafone
- Alkermes plc
- Grafton Group plc
- Trustees of a commercial semi-State client’s AVC Scheme
- Coillte
- Trustees of the Gas Networks Ireland DB and DC pension schemes
- CRH plc
Work highlights
- Advised Vodafone on commercial court pensions litigation.
- Advised CRH plc on pensions aspects of the disposal of Clogrennane Lime Limited.
- Advised Grafton Group plc on pensioner buy-in exercise.
Lawyers
Hall of fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Philip Smith
Other key lawyers
Deirdre Cummins; Sarah McCague