Byrne Wallace Shields LLP Announces 16 Promotions
Tuesday, 18 August 2026This year, six lawyers have been promoted to Partner, one to Of Counsel, seven have been appointed to Management Associate level and two lawyers have been appointed to a Senior Associate level.
The promotions span the firm’s key practice areas and include the following:
Appointed as Partner
- Lisa Hyland – Health and Social Care
- Helen Boland – Health and Social Care
- Sean Neville - Litigation and Regulation
- Andrew McVea – Infrastructure, Construction and Energy
- Kristofer O’Shea - Corporate
- Fergal McConnan – Tax
Appointed as Of Counsel
- Robert McDermott – Litigation and Regulation
Appointed as Managing Associates:
- Ruth O’Mara - Property/Real Estate
- Aoife Coughlan - Property/Real Estate
- Orla McCarthy Lyons - Property/Real Estate
- Ciara Redmond – Health and Social Care
- Roisin Garvey – Health and Social Care
- Lorraine Heffernan - Employment Law
- Rory O’Huiginn – Infrastructure, Construction and Energy
Appointed as Senior Associates:
- Laura Ryan - Employment Law
- Christoper Woods – Infrastructure, Construction and Energy
Commenting on the promotions, Managing Partner Feargal Brennan said, “The Firm has developed significantly in the last year 2026 is demonstrating material growth across all our service lines. Our primary investment is in our people, as it is our people that makes us a great Firm – put simply this announcement underscores our commitment to this.”
HR Partner and Head of Property Alison O’Sullivan added, "Our people are at the heart of Byrne Wallace Shields LLP, and we remain committed to fostering an environment where talented lawyers can develop, thrive and build rewarding careers. Through ongoing training, mentoring and development opportunities, we support our lawyers in achieving their professional ambitions and delivering the highest standards of service to our clients."
She concluded that "these promotions recognise the exceptional contribution each of these lawyers has made to the firm. They reflect not only their expertise and dedication, but also the values and commitment they demonstrate every day. We congratulate them on this important milestone and look forward to their continued success as they help shape the future of the firm."
Photographed (L-R) Robert McDermott, Lisa Hyland, Sean Neville, Alison O'Sullivan, Fergal McConnan, Helen Boland, Kristofer O'Shea (Not present for photograph - Andrew McVea)
