News & Insights
Understanding Enforceability of Surcharge Interest Clauses in Ireland
Recent developments in Irish law have clarified the enforceability of surcharge interest clauses, particularly within loan agreements. The High Court has reinforced the principle that these clauses are only enforceable if they represent a “genuine pre-estimate” of the lender’s potential loss. This ensures that such clauses are not merely punitive measures intended to deter borrowers […]
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Enforcing UK Judgments in Ireland: Post-Brexit Developments
On 1 July 2025, the Hague Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgments in Civil or Commercial Matters 2019 (the "HJC") will come into effect in the United Kingdom. This development is set to alleviate some of the uncertainty surrounding the enforcement of UK judgments in Ireland, which has been a concern since […]
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Irish Gambler Sues Bookmakers Over Unpaid €320,000 Winnings
A young man from Ireland is embroiled in a legal battle with a major bookmaker after winning a significant sum on a horse racing bet. With dreams of substantial winnings, many have placed hopeful bets only to face disappointment. However, sometimes fortune smiles, yielding life-altering amounts. For 25-year-old Dylan Phelan, the latter was true when […]
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Storm Éowyn Triggers Record Compensation Applications
Storm Éowyn wreaked havoc across Ireland and the UK, leaving over a million people without power and causing significant travel disruptions. In the aftermath, more than 92,000 individuals have sought help through the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme to cope with the extensive damage. Reports indicate that this is the highest number of applications received for any […]
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Insurance Premium Hikes Questioned Amid Decline in Injury Claims
The latest figures from the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB) reveal that personal injury claims have seen a modest increase of 1% to 20,318 in the past year. However, the number remains significantly below pre-pandemic levels, raising questions about the justification for rising insurance premiums for motor, home, and business policies. Insurance reform advocates argue that […]
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Rising Insurance Premiums Questioned Amidst Declining Injury Claims
Recent data from the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB) indicates a slight increase of 1% in personal injury claims last year, totalling 20,318, yet these figures remain below pre-pandemic levels. This has sparked debate among insurance reform advocates who argue that the current rise in insurance premiums for motor, home, and business coverage is unwarranted. The […]
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Motor Liability Awards Drop by Over 40% in Five Years
The value of compensation for motor liability claims issued through the Injuries Resolution Board has seen a significant decline of over 40% in recent years. A new study reveals that €105.8 million was awarded last year, a stark contrast to the €178.85 million distributed in 2019. This reduction follows the implementation of revised injury guidelines […]
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Boy Receives €2m Settlement After Brain Injury Case
A young boy has reached a settlement of €2 million after a High Court case concerning a brain injury he allegedly suffered following septic shock. The settlement, which was made without any admission of liability, concluded on the fourth day of the hearing. Born with complex congenital heart disease, Evan McCurry underwent multiple surgeries shortly […]
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Family Settles Legal Case After Rally Accident in Kerry
A young boy narrowly escaped severe injury during a motor rally in Kerry when a car lost control, crashing through a protective barrier and throwing his buggy against a wall. The High Court recently heard the details of this incident, which occurred a decade ago at a church car park in Ballymacelligott. At the time, […]
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High Court Upholds Traditional Legal Representation Roles
The High Court has recently reinforced the traditional legal roles, particularly concerning barristers and their interaction with clients. The ruling has reaffirmed the principle that barristers cannot accept direct instructions from clients in litigation-related matters, except under certain conditions. Legal Framework and Regulation The case of Mallon v The Minister for Justice and Ors [2025] […]
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Pedestrian Motor Claims Surge in Ireland
Pedestrian motor claims in Ireland have seen a notable rise, as revealed by a recent report from the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB). The data indicates a 15% increase in such claims during 2024, with pedestrians facing a significantly higher risk of fatalities in road accidents compared to other road users. Analysis and Trends Conducted in […]
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AI Tools and Freedom of Information: A Legal Perspective
Recent discussions have emerged regarding the potential inclusion of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, within the scope of freedom of information (FOI) laws. This conversation was sparked by the revelation that a British government official used ChatGPT for ministerial work, leading to records being released under FOI legislation. AI Tools and FOI Legislation The […]
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