A&L Goodbody strengthens Northern Ireland team with new cohort of solicitors

A&L Goodbody (ALG) has further expanded its Northern Ireland team with the appointment of six newly qualified solicitors, bringing the Belfast office to over 140 lawyers and business services professionals.

Catherine Sheppard, Holly Emerson, Holly Molloy, Luca StClair, Martyn Doherty and Niall O’Hare have all completed ALG’s award-winning Trainee Solicitor Programme in Belfast.

Martyn and Niall join ALG’s Litigation Department, while Holly Emerson strengthens the Property team. Catherine and Luca take up roles within the Corporate team with Holly Molloy joining Banking.

These new appointments underline the firm’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of lawyers and ensuring a strong pipeline of talent across its Northern Ireland practices. Their transition into qualified roles supports the continued growth and development of the Belfast office.

Shirley Blair, Of Counsel at ALG in Northern Ireland, said:

“Nurturing the next generation of legal talent is a core priority for the firm. Our newly qualified solicitors bring exceptional capability, fresh perspectives and real ambition to their practice areas. Each member of this cohort represents the future of ALG in Northern Ireland, and we are delighted to welcome them into their new roles.”

Photo: Standing L – R: Martyn Doherty, Holly Molloy and Luca StClair. Seated L- R: Catherine Sheppard, Niall O’Hare, Shirley Blair and Holly Emerson.

Date published: 20 November 2025