The new legal directors are Denise Phillips in defence insurance, Karla Dooey in commercial, Joanne Harrison-Jones and Dublin-based Ciara Hanratty in healthcare regulatory and professional discipline, Gillian Greenfield in professional indemnity, Niamh Magee in procurement, Andrew Davison in private client and Helen Cosgrove in litigation and dispute resolution.

They are among 17 people promoted by the firm this year, including new partners Faye Phillips, Le-ann Campbell, Rachael McAdorey and Rosie Timoney.

The firm has also promoted five solicitors to senior associate: Genevieve Brindley in the healthcare claims team in Dublin; Andrew McWilliams in real estate; Hannah Porter in media, communications and reputation; Naomi Lamont in private client; and Charlotte Keelty in healthcare claims in Belfast.

Managing partner Roger McMillan said: “Carson McDowell has experienced another impressive year of growth. One of the benefits of this is that we are able to mark that success with the promotion of our people.

“This year we choose to introduce a legal director role to recognise the diverse range of contributions and achievements from our solicitors and further strengthen our commitment to providing clear career progression opportunities in management and leadership within the firm. 

“It gives us great pleasure to support our people in building their careers at Carson McDowell, and I congratulate all of those promoted on behalf of the partnership.”

Senior partner Neasa Quigley added: “I would like to congratulate and thank those promoted for their talent, dedication, and commitment to our clients.

“As Carson McDowell continues to grow, we remain focused on delivering high-quality legal services.

“Each promoted individual brings significant expertise and the right skills to best serve our clients, their businesses, and the sectors in which they operate.

“They play a pivotal role in supporting our strategy and ensuring the firm’s continued growth.”

Carson McDowell is Northern Ireland’s largest independent law firm, with a headcount of over 210, including 45 partners.