Judge leads tributes as Mayo solicitor retires after 50 years service

Judge Fiona Lydon led the tributes at Castlebar District Court to one of Mayo’s most popular solicitors, who made his final appearance after some 50 years of service to the legal profession.

Many tributes were paid to Ward McEllin, who continued on the business of his late father, Paddy McEllin, for his diligence and professional approach to his work as a solicitor.

A former President of the Irish Law Society, Mr. McEllin was very highly regarded by his peers in the legal professional, not just in Mayo, but throughout Ireland and beyond.

His attitude at all times, both as a defence or a prosecuting lawyer on behalf of numerous State bodies, was never aggressive or over-powering, always treating people with respect and dignity.

Judge Lydon spoke glowingly of Mr. McEllin’s professionalism throughout his career, describing him as a man of very good humour who will always be fondly regarded by those fortunate to know him over the years.

“I wish you well in your retirement and I congratulate you on what you have contributed to the court system over a very long and distinguished career,” said Judge Lydon.

Mr. Charles Gilmartin, on behalf of the Mayo Bar Association, said Mr. McEllin came from a highly respected family who provided a top class legal service for the people of Mayo over the years, always maintaining a high level of professionalism in all the work he did, while he was also very supportive of many young solicitors he encountered, always willing to help them in developing their careers.

Sgt. Margaret O’Connor, on behalf of An Garda Síochána, said she always found Mr. McElllin helpful and courteous in his court dealings with herself personally and her colleagues in An Garda Síochána.

Mr. Peter McGurren, on behalf of the Courts Service, said the Courts Service staff had a long association with the McEllin family over the years, describing Ward as a man of integrity and professionalism who always dealt with the staff and other officers of the court in a very courteous manner.

Ward McEllin said he was looking forward to spending more time on the golf course but thanked all for their kind words on his departure from the legal scene in Mayo where he enjoyed a long and fulfilling life in a career that was always interesting and challenging.