More than 40 legal professionals attended the annual meeting of the Association of Ukrainian Lawyers in Ireland on Saturday, which took place at DLA Piper’s Dublin office.

The event was focused on discussing legal integration and career pathways in Ireland.

While some of those who attended are now qualified as solicitors in Ireland and others are in the process of qualifying, many are working outside of the law while aspiring to return to the legal profession.

There is no formal recognition procedure for Ukrainian legal qualifications in Ireland, despite the EU recommending in 2022 that member states facilitate access to regulated professions for displaced Ukrainians.

In the absence of a formal route in Ireland, some have sought to qualify by first pursuing qualification in England and Wales through a streamlined process introduced by the UK government.

By taking this path, Ukrainian lawyers have been able to qualify as Irish solicitors within six to 12 months, compared to the two to three years it takes to pursue the traditional path to qualifying in Ireland.

However, while viable for some, the English route also presents financial and procedural challenges, Saturday’s meeting heard.

As well as discussing the path to qualification as a solicitor, the event addressed career opportunities in non-legal sectors and the process of admission to the Irish bar.

The event was moderated by Anna Bazarchina BL, chairperson of the Association of Ukrainian Lawyers in Ireland and Irish representative of the Ukrainian National Bar Association, and Pavlo Bogachenko, a senior associate at DLA Piper qualified in both Ukraine and Ireland.

High Court judge Mr Justice Richard Humphreys delivered guest remarks, reflecting on judicial cooperation with Ukraine.

Ms Bazarchina welcomed attendees and emphasised the need for structured support for Ukrainian legal professionals navigating the Irish system.

The meeting concluded with an open discussion that highlighted both the strong commitment of Ukrainian legal professionals to continue their careers in Ireland and the importance of providing clearer guidance, mentorship, and institutional support.