'A privilege to take on the role': Leadership shake-up at Northern Ireland’s largest independent law firm
The appointments mark a new chapter for Northern Ireland’s largest independent law firm as it strengthens its position and expands its reach
Northern Ireland law firm Carson McDowell has confirmed that Orlagh O’Neill has assumed the role of managing partner, with Declan Magee appointed to the role of senior partner, effective 1 May 2026.
The appointments mark the next phase in the firm’s strategic development, as it continues to strengthen its position as Northern Ireland’s largest independent law firm and expand its reach in Ireland.
The firm employs more than 230 people and is led by a partnership of 45. In recent years, Carson McDowell has delivered sustained growth, increasing turnover from £15 million to over £23 million while continuing to invest in talent, capability and the development of its Dublin office.
Orlagh O’Neill trained in Carson McDowell and has been a Partner and head of the Employment team since 2009.
As managing partner, Orlagh will lead the firm’s operational strategy, with responsibility for performance, people and the continued evolution of its internal platforms. Her focus will be on building a scalable, high-performing business that supports long-term growth and consistently delivers for clients.
Orlagh O’Neill said, “It is a privilege to take on the role of managing partner. Carson McDowell is in a strong position. My focus is on ensuring the firm continues to evolve in line with the needs of our clients and our people. We will continue to invest in our people, our sectors also strengthening our internal platforms so that we maintain our track record of sustained growth.”
Declan Magee, who joined the firm in 1995 and has led the Litigation & Dispute Resolution team for more than 15 years, will lead the firm’s strategic direction and external engagement, with a focus on deepening client relationships, strengthening market positioning and driving the firm’s long-term growth ambitions.
Declan added:“Carson McDowell has a clear sense of direction and a strong platform for the future. I look forward to working with Orlagh and the wider partnership to build on that momentum, further strengthening our client offering, expanding our presence across key markets and ensuring we remain a leading adviser to our clients.”
The leadership transition follows a period of sustained development for Carson McDowell, including the expansion of its Dublin office, continued growth across its core practice areas and consistent recognition in leading legal directories. The firm has also received a number of industry awards and was recently listed among the Belfast Telegraph Top 100 Companies and shortlisted as Legal Firm of the Year at the British Business Awards.