Law Society House in Belfast hosted a key event this week bringing together leading legal practitioners and aspiring solicitors for an in‑depth exploration of commercial awareness within the legal profession. 

The event, organised collaboratively by the QUB Commercial Awareness Society (CAS) and the Law Society of Northern Ireland, was entitled “Commercial Awareness in Legal Practice: Urban & Rural Perspectives.”

The event provided an invaluable platform for local law students to develop a deeper understanding of the commercial realities influencing legal practice today. 

Attendees heard direct insights from solicitor practitioners, trainees, HR specialists and economic experts, all of whom shared practical perspectives on the skills and knowledge required in an evolving legal landscape.

A distinguished panel of speakers contributed to the discussion:

  • Helen Claney – Interim Head of People, Law Society of Northern Ireland
  • Lisa Early – Corporate Partner, Pinsent Masons
  • Kevin Neary – Solicitor, DND Law
  • Lauren Spence – Trainee Solicitor, Murlands, Downpatrick
  • Matthew McGuigan – Trainee Solicitor, MKB Law Belfast
  • Gareth Hetherington – Director, Ulster University Economic Policy Centre

Panel discussions explored the distinctions between large commercial firms and regional or rural practices, the challenges of recruitment and retention within Northern Ireland, expectations placed on modern trainees, and the broader economic trends influencing legal work and client needs.

The event concluded with a networking session, giving students the chance to engage directly with industry professionals and further develop their understanding of career pathways within the solicitor profession.

Commenting on the event, the Head of Professional Development, Darren Patterson, said:

“The Law Society is delighted to host this important initiative and to work in partnership with the QUB Commercial Awareness Society. 

Events such as this provide an essential platform for law students to enhance their commercial awareness and to better understand the opportunities that lie ahead for future solicitors in Northern Ireland.”