Survey: 1,000 solicitors on dole

THE economic downturn and the collapse of the construction sector has resulted in 1,000 solicitors being out of work.

A survey by the Dublin Solicitors Bar Association, with almost 3,500 members, found that almost 40% of law firms have made staff redundant and there are 1,000 unemployed solicitors as a result of the downturn.

The survey, conducted by an “independent agency” last month, also found that two thirds of solicitors have taken a pay cut of up to 50% as a result of the downturn in business.

“Despite the collapse in the property market, 83% of firms still state conveyancing as their largest area of expertise which indicates a lack of diversity,” the survey indicates.

In a bid to keep their businesses going, solicitors are increasingly focussing on debt collection. “More than 40% of solicitors reported an increase in debt collection work. This is clearly a reflection on the economy and the amount of bad debts experienced by all sectors.”

More than 40% are engaging in further education and upskilling and almost 20% have applied for or received a quality standard.

Association president, Stuart Gilhooly, said: “In common with most sectors of Irish business, the last three years have been horrific for the solicitor’s profession. Job losses, substantial pay cuts and core business erosion have been the norm over this period and the results of the survey bear this out.

“While many solicitors have already taken remedial action, the DSBA will be working with our members to ensure that we, as a profession, focus more on modern business creation and marketing methods… We will also be advising our members, who are struggling, of the benefits of considering mergers with other firms.”