'Good news in court six - for a change': Limerick solicitor to be made a judge

Darach McCarthy received word of the Cabinet’s decision over a phone call

Published 1st Apr 2026, 15:50 BST Updated 1st Apr 2026, 16:12 BST Darach McCarthy said he has worked among court staff, gardaí, solicitors and indeed, journalists, and that 'they are all very hard-working' Darach McCarthy received word of the Cabinet’s decision over a phone call Sign up to our Limerick Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Limerick Live within your account.

THERE WAS "a little bit of good news in court six - for a change" when Judge Patricia Harney announced that a well-known criminal defence solicitor in Limerick has been nominated by the Cabinet to be a judge.

Darach McCarthy received word of the Cabinet’s decision over a phone call this Wednesday, April 1.

Judge Harney congratulated “the star of the moment”, and invited Mr McCarthy to say a few words before the court.

The solicitor stated that he’s been practicing for 20 years in Limerick, and that he believes Limerick’s court to be the most hard-working court in the country.

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Mr McCarthy said he has worked among court staff, gardaí, solicitors and indeed, journalists, and noted that “they are all very hard-working”.

Judge Harney remarked “You’ll get a flattering image in the paper for that”.

The solicitor thanked all the aforementioned workers, and Judge Harney.

Prosecuting Inspector Denis Waters stated: “On behalf of An Garda Síochána I wish Mr McCarthy the very best in all his endeavours.”

Solicitor Sarah Ryan added: “We’ve all congratulated Mr McCarthy already”.

Speaking to the Limerick Leader, Solicitor Tom Kiely, who has frequently worked with Mr McCarthy in the Limerick courts had the following message for Mr McCarthy: "Congratulations on your judicial appointment. A remarkable milestone and a testament to your integrity and work ethic."

Mr McCarthy is the President of the Limerick Solicitors’ Bar Association, and has practiced as a solicitor for 24 years. The 50-year-old founded a law firm on Pery Square, Limerick city, and is originally from Kerry.

Related topics: Limerick Limerick city Limerick District Court Limerick Courthouse An Garda Siochána Sign up to our Limerick Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Limerick Live within your account.