Mr O’Higgins was originally from Limerick, attending Crescent College from 1952 to 1960 with five of his brothers.

He later moved to Dublin, where he headed up a solicitor’s practice for a number of years.

He ran unsuccessfully as the Fine Gael candidate in the May 1968 Limerick East by-election at the age of 23.

Mr O’Higgins was founder member and co-designer of what is now the Legal Aid Board’s Family Mediation Service.

He was also the founding chairperson of the Peter McVerry Trust.

The Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP) paid tribute to Mr O’Higgins, its long-time legal adviser, in a statement.

“Jim served as legal adviser to the ISCP since its inception in 1983, and even before that, playing a key role in drafting the original constitution,” it said.

“Throughout his many years of service, Jim was a source of wise counsel, generosity, and steadfast support.

“He freely gave his time to the Society, attending AGMs, acting as one of the first trustees of the Benevolent Fund, and guiding us through the long campaign for protection of title and the journey to statutory registration.

“On the 40th anniversary of the ISCP, Jim was presented with an award recognising his outstanding service and commitment to the profession.

“Jim was a true friend to the Society and to the physiotherapy profession in Ireland. His contribution and kindness will be remembered with deep gratitude.

“We extend our sincere condolences to his wife Micheline, a longstanding member of the ISCP, and to their family at this sad time. May he rest in peace.”