High Court president brands Cork solicitor's attitude 'disgraceful' over former client's fee refund

The court heard that John Paul Hennessy had indicated he was not willing to comply with the directions of the complaints committee

High Court president, Mr Justice David Barniville (pictured) ordered that Mr Hennessy, who has since retired, comply with directions of the LSRA and pay back €1,639 in fees to a couple along with a further €2,085 which is to be transferred to another solicitors firm dealing with the estate of a woman, the couple’s neighbour who died. File photo: Sam Boal/Collins Photos

The President of the High Court has branded as “disgraceful” the attitude of a Cork solicitor who in correspondence with a regulatory authority said he had no intention of complying with directions, including the return of a fee to former clients.

Mr Justice David Barniville said it was disgraceful conduct and he had no hesitation in granting orders sought by the Legal Services Regulatory Authority (LSRA) against John Paul Hennessy who previously practised as Hennessy & Co solicitors, Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry, Co. Cork.