Carson McDowell has taken on seven newly qualified solicitors into permanent positions following the completion of their training contracts with the firm.

Steven Burrows, Rebekah Spence, Holly Cooper, Jack Turkington, Reece Simpson, Sarah Logan and Susanna Elliott have joined specialist teams across the firm. Burrows and Spence are in defence insurance, Cooper in professional negligence, Turkington in banking, Simpson in corporate/commercial, Logan in employment and Elliott in corporate.

Orlagh O’Neill, managing partner, said qualifying as a solicitor is a significant achievement and the partners are proud of each of them. She noted that throughout their training contracts they showed commitment, resilience and a willingness to learn.

Declan Magee, senior partner, added that the appointments represent an important investment in the future of the firm and client service. He said the training programme delivers first class candidates and is part of succession planning.

Mary-Kim Doherty, trainee partner, said it was a pleasure to support the group and their retention reflects hard work, commitment and the strength of the trainee programme.

The firm continues to invest in developing legal talent through its summer vacation scheme, work experience programme and two-year trainee solicitor programme. Seven trainees have also joined as part of the 2026 intake.

The announcement comes as colleagues remember Kate Duffy, who passed away shortly after qualifying as a solicitor.