Kate’s family joined the Society for the launch of the award which has been established in her memory honouring her aspiration to join the profession and to support future generations pursuing a career in law.

At the launch of the memorial bursary, Kate’s parents Sean and Zara highlighted the importance of understanding the mental health challenges that young professionals face and the range of support available during difficult times.

Law Society of Northern Ireland president Mark Borland said: “Kate Duffy was, by all accounts, an exceptional young woman who was set to begin a career in law that I have no doubt would have been immensely successful.

“Kate’s passing earlier this year was a tragedy that was felt by her family, her friends, her firm and by our whole profession. It is a stark reminder of the need for all of us, at every stage of our careers, to look after our mental health and to provide support and signposting to our friends and colleagues wherever we can.

“In the midst of these terrible circumstances, I have been inspired by the commitment of Kate’s loving family to ensure that her life will have a lasting impact. That is why I am so pleased that we have been able to launch the Kate Duffy Award today. This bursary will honour Kate’s life by supporting future generations to pursue a career in law with direct financial support for their studies. Kate left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone she knew, now her memory will continue to shape the lives of young people entering the legal profession.”

The Law Society of Northern Ireland awards two bursaries each year that cover the cost of fees for the Diploma in Professional Legal Studies course at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS) in Belfast. The 2026 Kate Duffy Award has been awarded to Shauna O’Hagan. The second Law Society of Northern Ireland Centenary Bursary was awarded to Sarah Brown.