Department profile
Carson McDowell

Education: Institutions

UK Guide 2026 : Northern Ireland


Carson McDowell

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Education: Institutions - Northern Ireland

Band 1

Band 1


What the Team is Known For

Carson McDowell has a highly impressive education team that consists of a number of specialists in related disciplines, including employment, construction and corporate work. The team is particularly well-versed in technology matters, including strong expertise in data protection. The firm acts for major universities, as well as numerous further education institutions and schools across Northern Ireland.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Carson McDowell acted as sole legal advisor to Queen's University Belfast advising on a range of issues including intellectual property, IT, data protection, real estate and procurement matters.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The experience and knowledge of Carson McDowell's team is evident.

    Education: Institutions respondentUK
  • Carson McDowell has very strong co-ordination and joined up processes meaning that all complex and multifaceted issues are managed effectively.

    Education: Institutions respondentUK
  • Carson McDowell's response times are excellent.

    Education: Institutions respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Declan Magee
    Band 1Declan Magee

    Declan Magee

    Declan Magee is a partner at Carson McDowell who is recognised for representing universities and education institutions, regularly advising on challenging projects and policy matters

    • Declan Magee has excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to understand our business' perspective.

      Education: Institutions respondentUK
  • Band 1Orlagh O'Neill
    Band 1Orlagh O'Neill

    Orlagh O'Neill

    Orlagh O'Neill leads Carson McDowell's education department and is noted for her ability in contentious matters, including discrimination claims and disputes involving the discipline of students. As head of the firm's employment team, she is particularly adept at handling employment matters on behalf of higher education institutions and governing bodies.

    • Orlagh provides excellent legal support on complex matters.

      Education: Institutions respondentUK
  • Band 2Dawn McKnight
    Band 2Dawn McKnight

    Dawn McKnight

    Dawn McKnight is a partner in the education team at Carson McDowell and focuses her time on the spin-out sector. Her clients include Northern Irish universities, government bodies and university-owned subsidiaries.

Ranked Individuals at Carson McDowell (3)

Northern Ireland

Members

Provided by Carson McDowell

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