Republic of Ireland

Nearly three years on from the start of the financial crisis the Irish economy continues to struggle, making life tough for many lawyers in the country’s large small-to mid-tier sector. A large number of insurance claims have led to ­soaring premiums while work remains thin on the ground.

In this week’s Special Report we ask mid-tier firms how they have adapted to survive in the challenging ­environment. The report also looks at proposals to reform the ­regulation of the legal profession in Ireland.

A Legal Services Bill, set to be published within weeks, could bring the profession in line with UK ­regulations.