We’re delighted to shine a spotlight on one of our team members as Laura prepares to take the next exciting step in her legal career. This December, she will begin her studies at Blackhall Place in Dublin, marking the start of her professional qualification journey.
In this Q&A, we sit down with her to discuss her path into law, what inspired her to pursue a legal career, and her thoughts ahead of starting at one of Ireland’s leading centres for professional legal education. We’re proud to support the development of emerging legal talent and look forward to following her journey as she continues to grow and succeed within the profession.
Question: Hi Laura! Where did you originally study and why did you get into Law?
I completed my undergraduate degree in Law and Media at Dublin City University (DCU), before going on to complete a Master of Laws (LLM) at DCU. I have always had an interest in law, and my studies at DCU further strengthened that interest.
Question : How long have you been working in Gibson and Associates LLP and when did you decide to move forward with starting at Blackhall?
I joined Gibson & Associates in December 2022. I began sitting the FE1 examinations in October 2023 and successfully completed them in March 2026.
Question: What type of Law are you primarily interested in?
I have always had an interest in human rights law. During my Master’s degree, I chose to write my dissertation on the legal position of women in surrogacy arrangements in Ireland, examining the series of governmental failures that have contributed to the lack of legal protection for intended mothers in such arrangements. This research further developed my interest in the way the law affects individuals and their fundamental rights, which naturally led me to immigration law. I find it particularly rewarding to see the tangible impact that legal protection and representation can have on individuals in vulnerable situations. I look forward to gaining further experience across other areas of law, including Litigation and Property, during my training with Gibson and Associates. This will allow me to develop a broader understanding of different areas of practice and, in turn, determine which area I am most interested in pursuing.
Question: What are you expecting before you start in December? Have you spoken to some of our Solicitors for some advice?
I have been fortunate to receive support from my colleagues, including Kellie and Blaithin, who have recently qualified as Solicitors. They have provided valuable insight into what to expect during the Professional Practice Course (PPC) at the Law Society of Ireland, and their guidance has further reinforced my enthusiasm for taking the next step in my legal career.
Question: How would you describe this process to someone who hasn’t any clue about the process of becoming a Solicitor?
My journey to becoming a Solicitor began with an undergraduate degree in Law and Media at Dublin City University (DCU), followed by a Master of Laws (LLM) at DCU.
The next stage involved completing the eight Final Examination – First Part (FE-1) examinations, which are the entrance examinations to the Law Society of Ireland’s Professional Practice Course (PPC). These intensive examinations cover a broad range of legal subjects and are held twice each year.
Following completion of the eight exams, you must then secure a Training Contract in order to progress to Blackhall to complete the Professional Practice Course (PPC). This is offered in two formats, full time and hybrid. Upon completing the Professional Practice Course (PPC) trainee solicitors are required to complete two years of in-office training. When you have successfully completed your PPC examinations and your in-office training you may apply to have your name entered on the Roll of Solicitors.
Question: Do you think working in the firm, and seeing the work our Solicitor’s do has been a motivation to taking this next step?
Working at Gibson and Associates LLP and witnessing the results achieved by the Solicitors within the firm has further strengthened my interest in law and my understanding of the legal process. Seeing the positive impact that the Solicitors have on their clients continues to motivate me to progress towards qualification.
Question: If you had some advice for past you, what would it be?
If I could give my past self-advice, it would be to learn as much as possible from those around you who have already gone through the process. Much of the learning comes from gaining practical experience, working on matters, and seeing the results achieved through that experience.
