Solicitors from Dublin attended the Practice and Regulation Symposium 2020 which took place online for the first time in the event’s history. Organised by the Law Society Finuas Skillnet in collaboration with Dublin Solicitors’ Bar Association (DSBA), the annual conference provides an opportunity for solicitors to stay up-to-date in areas relevant to them such as cyber security, regulation and anti-money laundering (AML).
Solicitor Joe O’Malley, Hayes Solicitors, is President of the DSBA and said the conference was an opportunity for Dublin solicitors to reflect on very important high risk areas that directly impact all solicitors’ practices. “Every year the Practice and Regulation Symposium provides Dublin solicitors with essential information to help them efficiently run their practices and to stay complaint with regulatory requirements,” explained Mr O’Malley. “The Practice and Regulation Symposium 2020 is the fifth in a series of online events run by the Law Society this year. Despite current restrictions, the conference was an opportunity to meet colleagues in a virtual setting and discuss the challenges and opportunities the last year has brought,” he said.
“The conference highlighted the importance of cyber security and the stark reality of falling victim to a cyber fraud attack,” said Mr O’Malley. “Solicitors should always stay vigilant and prepare against cybercrime. Fortunately, there are a number of measures solicitors can take to limit the risks and help protect themselves against cyber-attacks, including implementing risk management policies and training staff,” he said. “Legal experts in AML and regulation also addressed the conference and provided a whistle-stop tour through solicitor AML, discussed AML supports for solicitors and recent developments in the EU.”
“While we continue to navigate Covid-19 and the country reopening, we should remember that solicitors are essential services and remain open for business. Dublin solicitors are equipped with up-to-date practice knowledge and are still available to provide legal services to clients, while adhering to social distancing measures,” said Mr O’Malley. “If you need expert legal advice, talk to your local solicitor.”