Joseph Finnegan (judge) facts for kids

Joseph Gerald Finnegan (born October 1, 1942 – died December 16, 2023) was a very important Irish judge. He held several high positions in Ireland's legal system. He was a judge in the Supreme Court from 2006 to 2012. Before that, he was the President of the High Court from 2001 to 2006. He also served as a regular judge in the High Court starting in 1999.

While he was President of the High Court, he was considered the second-highest judge in Ireland. This role also made him a special member of the Supreme Court. Later, he became a full member of the Supreme Court.

Joseph Finnegan's Early Life and Education

Joseph Finnegan was born in Swords, Dublin, Ireland. He went to school at Synge Street CBS and St. Mary's College in Dundalk. After school, he studied at University College Dublin. There, he earned degrees in law.

A Career in Law

Joseph Finnegan became a solicitor in 1966. A solicitor is a lawyer who advises clients and prepares legal documents. From 1968 to 1973, he worked as an Assistant Secretary for the Incorporated Law Society of Ireland.

Later, he decided to become a barrister. He was called to the Bar in 1978. This means he was officially allowed to argue cases in court. In 1990, he became a Senior Counsel. This is a special title for experienced barristers.

He mostly worked on general law cases and property matters. He was especially interested in legal issues about buying and selling land.

Becoming a Judge

In 1999, Joseph Finnegan was appointed as a judge to the High Court. The High Court deals with serious cases. In 2001, he became the President of the High Court. This was a very important leadership role. He held this position until 2006.

In December 2006, he was appointed to the Supreme Court of Ireland. The Supreme Court is the highest court in Ireland. He served there until he retired in 2012.

Involvement in Legal Organizations

Joseph Finnegan was also involved in how the courts were run. He was a member of the Board of the Courts Service from 2001 to 2006. He helped with finance and pay committees. He also led the Audit Committee.

He cared a lot about legal education. He was a member of the Education Committee for the Honorable Society of the King's Inns. This is a place where barristers are trained. He stayed on this committee until he passed away.

He was also a "Bencher" at King's Inns and at the Honorable Society of Middle Temple. These are honorary positions in legal societies. Joseph Finnegan died in Dublin on December 16, 2023, at the age of 81.