About NIYSA
The representative body for young solicitors in Northern Ireland, dedicated to supporting professional development, networking, and advocacy.
Who We Are
The Northern Ireland Young Solicitors' Association (NIYSA) is the representative body for solicitors in their first 10 years of post-qualification experience (PQE). Every qualifying solicitor within that timeframe is automatically a member of our association.
We are committed to promoting the interests of young solicitors, providing high-quality educational and networking events, encouraging engagement with the wider legal community, and supporting professional development and cross-profession collaboration.
Whether you are newly qualified, building your practice, or simply wanting to connect with colleagues, NIYSA is here to support you throughout the early stages of your legal career in Northern Ireland.
Our Mission & Objectives
Represent
Represent the views and interests of young solicitors to the Law Society of Northern Ireland and wider stakeholders.
Educate
Organise educational, professional, and social events that support continuing professional development.
Connect
Foster connections with other legal and professional bodies both locally and internationally.
Promote Excellence
Promote excellence and development within the legal profession for the benefit of all young solicitors.
Our Partners & Stakeholders
We work closely with leading legal organisations to ensure our members are represented locally, nationally, and internationally.
LSNI
The Law Society of Northern Ireland
The regulatory and representative body for solicitors in Northern Ireland.
IPLS
Institute of Professional Legal Studies
Queen's University Belfast - training the next generation of solicitors.
EYBA
European Young Bar Association
Connecting young lawyers across Europe through conferences and collaboration.
International
UK & European Associations
Working with young solicitor associations across the UK and Europe.
The 2026 Committee
Our committee is elected annually at the AGM each January. Meet the team leading NIYSA this year.
William Wilson
Chairperson
Lacey Solicitors
Katherine Macauley
Vice-Chairperson
Joseph Magee & Co
Aisling Creegan
Secretary
Lacey Solicitors
Victoria Kinkaid
Treasurer
Carson McDowell LLP
Michael Murphy
Membership Engagement Officer
MKB Law
James Greene
CPD Coordinator
Elliotts Legal
Sarah Swann
Charity Liaison Officer
DWF
Emma Doherty
Communications & Marketing Officer
Tughans LLP
Morgan Pennie
Creative Content Officer
Pinsent Masons
Ronan Martin
IPLS Representative
Murphy O'Rawe
NIYSA Constitution
The NIYSA Constitution governs how the Association operates, including membership rights, elections, meetings, finance, transparency, and disciplinary processes. It outlines the framework within which the committee operates and ensures accountability to our members.