New Mayo solicitor Denise Duignan formally introduced at court
Denise Duignan has been welcomed to Castlebar District Court where she was formally introduced as a solicitor before Judge Sandra Murphy.
Introducing the Castlebar native, solicitor Dermot Hewson outlined her strong academic and professional background.
A former student of St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Castlebar, Ms. Duignan went on to earn two degrees from the University of Galway.
She began her apprenticeship with former state solicitor Vincent Deane, and following his appointment to the bench, she continued her training with Thomas J. Walsh Solicitors.
Her traineeship was completed in a hybrid fashion, allowing her to gain valuable local experience while undertaking formal training, something described as both practical and forward-thinking by Mr. Hewson.
He also noted that it is increasingly uncommon to formally introduce new solicitors to local courts, as many tend to gravitate towards larger urban venues. He said the court was delighted to welcome a young solicitor choosing to establish herself in Mayo.
State solicitor Louise Cresham, who has worked closely with Ms. Duignan, paid warm tribute to the new solicitor, describing her as “hardworking, conscientious, and an asset to any legal team.”
Inspector Denis Harrington also extended his congratulations, noting he had long known Ms. Duignan and her family.
“Her father, a former Garda Sergeant, Dónal, and her mother, Marion, can be very proud.
"Denise has always shown professionalism and diligence in her work. She kept us on our toes with her thorough handling of books of evidence,” he said.
Castlebar court office manager Breda Byron also wished Ms. Duignan “a long and successful career.”
Judge Sandra Murphy said it was “a special occasion for the District Court” and all the more meaningful given the attendance of Ms. Duignan’s family.
The judge praised her choice of legal mentors, noting that Judge Deane, Ms. Cresham and Mr. Walsh are held in high regard for their integrity and professionalism.
“Your decision to qualify and to practice here in Mayo is most welcome,” Judge Murphy said.
“Your father’s public service as a Garda Sergeant clearly shines through in your own dedication. It is a great day for you and your family, and we are delighted to share it with you.”
Ms. Duignan thanked all those present and said she looked forward to “upholding the high standards of the legal profession here in Mayo.”
She is a member of the legal team at Thomas Walsh Solicitors, Mill Lane, Castlebar.
* Published under the Courts Reporting Scheme.