Law firm settle action against three solicitors

Proceedings by a prominent law firm against three solicitors who resigned from the practice late last month have been resolved.

Augustus Cullen Law and Cullen Solicitors Services Limited solicitors had initiated the High Court proceedings against Michael Boylan, Gillian O’Connor, their firm Michael Boylan Litigation Law Firm, and another solicitor Ciara McPhillips for alleged breach of contract.

Mr Boylan had been an equity partner at Augustus Cullen, Ms O’Connor had been a partner while Ms McPhillips had been an associate solicitor with the plaintiffs prior to their resignation on June 25th last.

Last week the plaintiffs obtained permission, on an ex parte basis, from Ms Jutice Caroline Costello to serve short notice of the proceedings on the defendants.

When the matter returned before the court on Friday Rossa Fanning SC, for Augustus Cullen Law, said that following discussions between the parties the matter had been settled, and could be struck out.

Counsel said that as part of the settlement all allegations of the soliciting of clients were withdrawn.

Andrew Fitzpatrick SC for Mr Boylan, Ms O’Connor and their firm said his clients were very happy the allegations of soliciting of clients had been withdrawn.

The court heard Ms McPhillips, represented by Ciaran Lewis SC, was also pleased with the settlement.

Ms Justice Costello commended the parties for bring about a resolution to the dispute and struck out the proceedings.

As part of their action the plaintiffs had sought various orders against the defendants including injunctions preventing them from approaching or soliciting any of Augustus Cullen Law’s clients for the next 12 months.