The Irish Courts Podcast

Every day, headlines and social media feeds carry stories from our courts. However, court reporting is more than news, it’s a constitutional imperative and a cornerstone of transparency in Irish justice. In this episode, we explore why reporting the law matters, how it has evolved, and why it remains vital for democracy. Join Professor Rachael Walsh - School of Law, Trinity College Dublin, Mary Ca...

Join Ms. Justice Eileen Roberts of the High Court, Dr Brian Barry, Associate Professor, School of Law, Trinity College Dublin and Karlin Lillington, Irish Times Technology Journalist as they explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the legal landscape; from courtroom transcription and legal research to sentencing algorithms and deep fakes. This episode examines the promise and peril of AI...

In this episode of The Irish Courts Podcast, we explore Habeas Corpus, a legal remedy that protects the right to liberty in Ireland. Hear from Dr. Bláthna Ruane SC, Mr. Justice Gerard Hogan, and Associate Professor Dr. Kevin Costello as they trace the development of Habeas Corpus through Irish legal history. From its early use in the 17th century to its role in the Constitution today, this episode...

Join Professor Niamh Howlin, Patrick Gageby SC, and Ms. Justice Caroline Biggs as they trace the evolution of jury trials, from packed juries and exclusionary laws to landmark cases that opened the courtroom to women and broadened public participation. We’ll uncover how the jury system acts as a safeguard against State overreach, and how its transformation reflects Ireland’s changing values, from...

In this episode, we’re exploring the David Norris case—a pivotal legal battle that challenged the constitutionality of laws criminalising male homosexuality. Join author Colm Tóibín, former President Mary McAleese, and David Norris himself as they recount the struggle to overturn laws dating back to the British Empire. In this episode, we’ll unpack the personal and legal journey of David Norris, w...

Today we delve into the intriguing and controversial Julia Clarke case - a story that challenges our perceptions of justice and morality in 1930s Ireland. Imagine a summer evening in Dundalk, where a young couple’s innocent kiss leads to an unexpected turn of events. Join Niamh Howlin (Associate Professor at the UCD Sutherland School of Law) and Mary McAuliffe (historian, lecturer, and Director of...

Dive into the pivotal District Court cases of Healy v. Donoghue and DPP V Gary Doyle, which transformed the landscape of legal representation in Ireland. Featuring The Hon. Mr. Justice Frank Clarke, retired Chief Justice and The Hon. Mr. Justice John MacMenamin, retired Judge of the Supreme Court, The Hon. Ms. Justice Aileen Donnelly; Supreme Court Judge and James Dwyer SC, discover how these seem...

Join us as we delve into the life of Eileen Kennedy, whose groundbreaking appointment in 1964 marked a turning point in Ireland's legal history. Learn about her pivotal role in reforming the treatment of vulnerable children and her lasting impact on the judicial landscape through a rich and storied retelling with Dr Eoin O’Sullivan School of Social Work and Social Policy, Pól Ó’Murchú: Solicitor,...

What does it mean to have a judicial system of your own? In this episode, Chief Justice Dónal O’Donnell and The Hon. Mr Justice Gerard Hogan; Supreme Court Judge, examine the sweeping reforms of the 1924 court system, highlighting its significance in fostering a fair and independent Ireland. Tune in to celebrate the radical spirit that shaped the nation's legal landscape!

This Podcast series has been created to commemorate the Decade of Centenaries. The series will delve into landmark cases, influential figures, and the evolution of our legal system, featuring insightful discussions with prominent judges, legal scholars, and historians. Each episode aims to illuminate our legal heritage and its impact on modern society.