Queen’s University Belfast graduates Alice Grimes, Shauna McKey, Conan MacGillivray, Jacob Patterson and James Mounstephen, and Ulster University graduates Sarah Kelly and Rachel Glass, are among the firm’s 2025 intake.

They are joined by Hugo Ellerby of Exeter Unitversity, Kyle McIlhatton of Edge Hill University in Ormskirk, Niamh Edgar of Liverpool University, and Redmond McNamee of John Moores University in Liverpool.

Managing partner Roger McMillan said: “On behalf of our partners, I am pleased to welcome this year’s successful candidates.

“At Carson McDowell, we recognise that our new cohort of trainees are the building blocks for our future. The continued growth of our programme is a testament to the firm’s long-term vision where individuals are encouraged to develop their skills and experience in a supportive and collaborative environment.

“We look forward to guiding their development and recognising their future accomplishments.”

Trainees will gain hands-on experience in areas such as corporate law, real estate law, commercial law, planning and environmental law, litigation, banking and finance law, as well as gaining sectoral expertise in key industry sectors, including energy, healthcare, manufacturing and agriculture.

Mary-Kim Doherty, training partner at Carson McDowell, said: “We are immensely proud to welcome our largest ever trainee cohort.

“Our programme ensures future lawyers gain broad experiences across various legal disciplines while also developing crucial business and professional skills such as business development, compliance, finance, and IT. With dedicated mentorship, they are well placed to become confident, well-round solicitors.”

Neasa Quigley, senior partner, added: “Our trainee announcement underscores our commitment to our clients and once again sets us apart from our competitors.

“By investing in the largest trainee solicitor programme for a Northern Ireland-headquartered law firm, we are ensuring our clients will continue to be supported by the best legal talent available in the market both now and into the future.”