Leading Northern Ireland lawyer in critical condition because of coronavirus

The Irish Times reports that Niall Murphy has been in hospital since last week.

They write

One of Northern Ireland’s most well-known solicitors is in a critical condition in hospital with coronavirus, his law firm has said.

Niall Murphy, 43, has been involved in many high-profile criminal trials and civil court cases, often representing victims of the Troubles.

The married father-of-three from Belfast is a partner in KRW Law.

Kevin Winters, on behalf of KRW Law, told the PA News Agency: “Last week our partner and colleague Niall Murphy was admitted to hospital where he is battling Covid-19.

“His condition remains critical but stable.

“We have invited people to send him and his family messages of support on Monday (30/3/20).

Source:  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/leading-northern-ireland-lawyer-in-critical-condition-because-of-coronavirus-1.4214993

 

Here’s some of the cases that Niall has taken on

Niall was educated at St Mary’s CBGS in West Belfast later graduating from Queens University Belfast with a law degree in 1998.  From there Niall immediately commenced an apprenticeship at Madden and Finucane Solicitors, gaining crucial experience assisting preparation for the then upcoming Bloody Sunday Inquiry.  Niall was the first solicitor employed by Kevin Winters and Co in 2001, and became partner in 2003 at the age of 26.  Niall is married with three children.

 

Niall has a long and respected track record in criminal defence work, as part of the KRW Law criminal department.  Niall is a qualified Advanced Advocate since 2005.  Niall has conducted cases from the full range of criminal offences, included complex fraud investigations, armed robbery, rape and murder.

 

R v Simon Johnston 2003
Aggravated burglary, GBH with intent, indecent assault.Malicious allegation of “depraved” sex attack on a woman after it emerged that the woman concerned had a history of self-harm.  3rd party disclosure application crucial to uncovering key evidence.  The trial Judge expressed his “sincere regret” that he had been detained for such a period of time “for a series of crimes that he did not commit”.

 

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/northern_ireland/3271109.stm

R v Ward 2008
Northern Bank Robbery of £26 million.Chris Ward was the only man charged with the £26.5m Northern Bank robbery in December 2004, one of the largest cash robberies in world history.

 

Media Reports

http://www.theguardian.com/uk/2008/oct/09/northern.bank.robbery1

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/northern_ireland/7661017.stm