Department profile
Carson McDowell

Administrative & Public Law

UK Guide 2026 : Northern Ireland

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Carson McDowell

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Provided by Carson McDowell

Industries (9)

  • Charities / Not for Profit
  • Education
  • Energy
  • Financial Services
  • Government
  • Health Care
  • Insurance
  • Transportation
  • Utilities

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Administrative & Public Law - Northern Ireland

Band 1

What the Team is Known For
Carson McDowell handles administrative and public law matters for clients in the public sector. The Belfast-based firm has a particular emphasis on work for public sector clients and regulators, complemented by noteworthy expertise in public inquiries and judicial reviews. Additional areas of expertise include data protection and freedom of information claims.
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Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Carson McDowell successfully challenged the legality of Sections 12-16 of the Justice Act 2022 which would have granted anonymity to those accused of sexual offences. The was the first successful strike-down of an Act of the Northern Irish Assembly.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The lawyers have full command of the legal principles and the practical aspects of judicial review. There is an excellent combination of partners and associates who are consistently available.

    Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

  • Carson McDowell identify the key issues in a case early. They have a wealth of talent and are equipped to deal with the most complex cases.

    Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

  • The Carson McDowell team have significant experience in public law and have a high level of specialist knowledge.

    Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

  • Carson McDowell is highly efficient. The work is always on point and on time and the team handles complex matters very effectively.

    Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

  • They have a strong reputation of winning and negotiating cases and always provide an extremely high level of service even in the most complex of cases.

    Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Declan Magee
    Declan Magee

    Declan Magee

    Declan Magee is a partner at Carson McDowell who is recognised for his strength in an array of public and administrative matters. He regularly handles high-profile public inquiries and advises public sector clients on decision-making processes.

    • Declan is a wise and experienced partner.

      Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

    • Declan is very experienced.

      Administrative & Public Law respondentUK
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  • Fergal McGoldrick
    Fergal McGoldrick

    Fergal McGoldrick

    Fergal McGoldrick is a senior associate at Carson McDowell specialising in public and administrative law. He has particular expertise in judicial review challenges and advisory work arising from the criminal justice space.

    • Fergal has an in-depth knowledge of judicial review and is sure-footed in his interactions with all parties.

      Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

    • Fergal is client-focused with a keen eye for detail and securing the most commercial outcomes for his clients.

      Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

    • Fergal stands out not only for his legal expertise but also for his ability to navigate complex situations. He has extremely strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

      Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

    • Fergal is an exceptional lawyer who combines top-tier legal expertise, commercial practicality and client engagement.

      Administrative & Public Law respondentUK

    • Fergal is an outstanding solicitor. His attention to detail and understanding of the legal issues arising in cases stands out.

      Administrative & Public Law respondentUK
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Ranked Individuals at Carson McDowell (2)

Northern Ireland

Members

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