The fund has been created to provide financial support for individuals and communities who face barriers in accessing legal advice and representation, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to ensuring that justice is not determined by financial means.

The fund will be supported through the firm’s commitment to set aside 10 per cent of its corporate professional fees to provide access to legal representation and support for those who may otherwise be unable to pursue their rights.

Enda McGarrity, director and head of human rights, said: “Access to justice is a cornerstone of a democratic society, yet too many people across this island are prevented from vindicating their rights due to financial barriers.

“This fund is about taking practical action, ensuring that we can continue to stand alongside individuals and families in the most important cases, particularly where those cases have the potential to drive wider change.

“By committing a portion of our corporate professional fees to this initiative, we are embedding access to justice at the heart of everything we do as a firm.”