Tag: law

Law Society of Ireland hosts Industry Event on Artificial Intelligence and GDPR

One of Europe’s most prestigious legal events, the European Law Institute’s (ELI) Annual Conference, starts today and will run until Friday. Hosted in Dublin for the first time, the event will bring together over 400 delegates from across Europe to the King’s Inns and Law Society.

The conference will feature some of the world’s leading legal experts taking part in discussions on key themes, including the impact of digitisation on law and society, AI regulation and ethics, and the future of GDPR amid rapid technological advances.

Dublin’s selection as the host city reflects its established position as the European headquarters for several global tech firms.

The European Law Institute (ELI) is regarded as the voice of the legal community in Europe, with nearly 1,700 individual members from the bar, bench, academia, and various legal professions. It also boasts almost 150 institutional members, including EU institutions, supreme courts, law firms, and academic bodies.

Key speakers at the conference include:

  • Marko Bošnjak: President of the European Court of Human Rights
  • Michael O’Flaherty: Former Director of the EU’s Fundamental Rights Agency and recently appointed Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe
  • Rossa Fanning, SC: Attorney General of Ireland
  • Frances Fitzgerald: Former Member of the European Parliament

This evening, the Law Society will host a seminar on Artificial Intelligence and GDPR at Blackhall Place. Confirmed speakers include:

  • Pascal Pichonnaz, ELI President and Professor at University of Fribourg (Switzerland)
  • Sir Geoffrey Vos, ELI Vice-President; Master of the Rolls and Head of Civil Justice in England and Wales
  • Jeremy Godfrey,  Executive Chairperson, Comisiún na Meán
  • Emma Redmond, Assistant General Counsel for privacy and data protection – Open AI
  • Irene Nicolaidou, Deputy Chair of the European Data Protection Board
  • Gerard Hogan, Judge of the Supreme Court of Ireland and former Advocate General of the European Court of Justice

Together, they will analyse how advances in technology, particularly in AI, are reshaping the legal landscape and the conflicts with privacy and other rights.

Commenting on the upcoming event, ELI President Professor Pascal Pichonnaz said, “Dublin was chosen as the host city for its pivotal role as home to the European headquarters of many leading technology firms. The city provides an ideal backdrop for important discussions around the future of technology in law, AI regulation, and privacy issues, all of which have wide-reaching implications for the legal sector globally.”

Solicitor Paul Keane, European Law Institute Irish Hub Co-Chair; and Member of the Council of the Law Society of Ireland, said “We are delighted to welcome the ELI Annual Conference to Dublin for the first time. The European Law Institute (ELI) plays a vital role in relation to European Law. It focuses on the law as it should be, not as it is. It produces quality-tested, practical legal thinking, with pragmatic proposals, to guide law-makers. The quality of the Conference panels and the innovative work they will be highlighting are outstanding. The Law Society is especially pleased to host the Opening Reception of the Conference and to support, in its headquarters, the ELI seminar on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and GDPR. In addition to enjoying the quality of the legal debates, we hope that our visitors will be intrigued and inspired by the cultural and historical charms of Dublin.”

Irish hate speech law could “censor the entire internet”

Global voices have united in concern about the “hate speech” bill pending before Irish parliament, as 1 in 4 Irish say they are worried about the erosion of free speech.

Speaking at the Irish parliament this month, “Twitter Files” journalist Michael Shellenberger stated clearly that “there is no hate crisis in Ireland” and that the case for censorship was brought about by “elite panic” trying to stifle open conversation and discourse among the Irish people.

The bill would make it an offence to possess (for distribution) material that could lead to “hatred” in Ireland, with punishment of up to 5 years in prison.  

The bill would also impact the right to share views on social media across much of the world, with directors and executives of social media platforms with international HQs in Ireland (X, Facebook, and more) held accountable to the Irish government if found to be platforming undefined “hate speech”. 

“The world is watching Ireland. As the home of various international social media headquarters, the bill would have a global impact on what we can all discuss online.”

– Michael Shellenberger, “Twitter Files” journalist & author

“The world is watching Ireland. The censorial “hate speech bill”, if passed, would not only shut down conversation nationally – as the home of various international social media headquarters, it would have a global impact on what we can all discuss online.

“A sweeping ban on undefined “hate” gives authorities the power to determine which viewpoints are acceptable to voice. World history warns us that such power can be easily abused,” said Michael Shellenberger, international bestselling author and journalist behind the “Twitter Files”. 

Far-reaching consequences

On the same day, giving the keynote address at the Ireland Free Speech Summit, which sold out amongst members of the public, Shellenberger suggested the goal of the bill may be to “censor the entire internet”.

The bill offers no clear definition of what “hate” entails. Experts warn this could pave the way for the criminal prosecution of a wide range of expression considered unfavorable by authorities.  

The bill would further make refusal to give a password to an electronic device a crime, which would allow authorities to search and possibly find materials that are “hateful”.

1 in 4 Irish concerned about right to free speech being eroded

New national polling commissioned by ADF International reveals a deep-seated concern amongst the Irish for the erosion of free speech, with a quarter revealing they already feel restricted in expressing their views and opinions in social settings like a pub, or in their place of work or study.  

In the survey, conducted by Whitestone Insight*, 90% confirmed that free speech was “very important” to them – while the Irish parliament debates  new and wide-ranging “hate speech” legislation, with egregious implications for the basic human right to free speech. 

“The proposed “hate speech” legislation would be one of the worst examples of censorship in the modern West. The bill purports to stamp out ‘hate speech,’ but fails to define what ‘hate’” is – allowing authorities to censor any speech the state opposes. 

That’s why voices from around the world are speaking up for the right to debate and discuss ideas – here in Ireland, and everywhere,” said Lorcan Price, Irish Barrister and Legal Counsel for ADF International. 

Global voices speak out against censorship

At the 2024 Free Speech Summit in Dublin on 18th June, international free speech champions  gathered with politicians to highlight the issues at stake under the bill.  

 

 

“Father Ted” screenwriter Graham Linehan was among the famous faces gathered, challenging attempts to censor Ireland: 

“We’re all coming together with different viewpoints, beliefs, and perspectives – but we agree on one thing. We should be allowed to freely discuss and debate ideas in Ireland. Our free speech must not be curtailed by a censorial government. It’s essential that the parliament consider the draconian impact that the hate speech bill could have on Irish society – and keep the public square open for all,” said Graham Linehan, screenwriter of “Father Ted”, who is billed to speak at the Summit.  

Independent Senators Rónán Mullen and Sharon Keogan spoke out against the bill, with Mullen highlighting that this bill is “far too vague”: 

“When it comes to democracy, I believe in it. When it comes to the right to test each other’s ideas, I believe in it. And we can’t do that if we’re operating under the chilling fear of giving offence to somebody who wraps that up as hatred, claims that it’s against the law, attacks you as a mob online, causes social media companies to take down your stuff so that you’ve failed to communicate before you even begin to try…If nobody was ever prosecuted under this law, the process itself would become the punishment,” said Mullen in his address. 

Also speaking up at the event were cleric and broadcaster Fr Calvin Robinson; Cambridge academic Dr. James Orr; Irish journalist Laura Perrins; Philosophy Professor Gerard Casey; feminist campaigner Laoise de Brún; GB News host Andrew Doyle; psychotherapist and Director of Genspect, Stella O’Malley; and international bestselling author Andy Ngo.

 

Speaking to censorship within the gender debate specifically, Genspect director and psychotherapist Stella O’Malley said: 

“I am finding the gender world increasingly hardline, and there is a lack of understanding about the importance of free speech, which is a cornerstone and a fundamental to a civilisation. We need to be able to speak about this freely rather than stumbling over what is the fashionable phrase to use right now.” 

For more information on the Ireland Free Speech Summit, click here. Read more here

*Methodology note: Whitestone Insight surveyed 1,027 Republic of Ireland adults online from 15th-20th March 2024. Whitestone Insight is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Full tables are available at whitestoneinsight.com.

Source

IP law firm FRKelly announces move to new Dublin office

FRKelly, leading specialist in intellectual property law, has announced its relocation to news offices at Waterways House, Grand Canal Quay, marking a significant milestone for the firm as it embraces a new era of growth. The firm’s move to Dublin’s Silicon Docks comes after spending 56 years in Clyde Road, Ballsbridge.

The new office, nestled in the heart of the Grand Canal area, is strategically positioned within Ireland’s innovation epicentre surrounded by a multitude of offices, young professionals and visionary entrepreneurs. Its central location is equidistant between Dublin’s traditional central business district of St. Stephen’s Green and Fitzwilliam Square, along with the commercial hubs on the Liffey Docks. It is also easily accessible by various modes of public transport.

Offering a breath-taking view overlooking the Grand Canal Dock, Waterways House is a multi-storey building designed and constructed to the prestigious LEED Gold standard that promises sophistication and sustainability. As well as the new Dublin head office, FRKelly has a presence in Belfast and Cork, with offices in both locations.

Gavan Ferguson, Managing Partner at FRKelly, said: “Waterways House embodies the spirit of progress and forward-thinking. The transition to the new office marks a brand-new chapter for FRKelly, unlocking boundless opportunities for business growth and innovation. This strategic shift aligns with our commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration, ultimately enabling us to attract top-tier talent and further elevate our services to clients.”

Currently employing 32 patent and trade mark attorneys, FRKelly foresees further growth in 2024. The firm’s recent recognition in the prestigious IAM 1000 patent rankings in 2023 and acknowledgment of four of its attorneys as IP Stars 2023 for their exceptional contributions in patent and trademark law further consolidate FRKelly’s standing as an industry leader poised for continued success.

How to Harness the Power of Digital Marketing for Law Firms

With the rise of modern technology, digital marketing has become a valuable tool for law firms to promote their services and reach new clients. By leveraging the power of digital marketing, your firm can create powerful campaigns that will increase brand awareness and bring in more business. In this blog post, you will learn how to craft successful digital marketing strategies to help your law firm build an online presence and drive legal leads. We’ll discuss why it’s important for attorneys to establish an effective web presence through search engine optimization (SEO), content creation, social media engagement, pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and other tactics designed specifically for lawyers. With these tips in mind, you should be able to develop efficient methods that attract prospects and generate more qualified cases!

Define Your Brand Identity and Goals 

Defining your brand identity and goals is an essential step of any digital marketing campaign for lawyers. Knowing what message you want to convey and what type of clients you are looking for will help guide your content strategy, SEO keyword research, social media posts, and other online efforts. Once you’ve established the goal of your campaign – whether it be growing visibility in search engine rankings or increasing the number of case leads – you can create campaigns that are tailored to meet those objectives. A law firm marketing budget should be allocated to both short-term and long-term goals in order to ensure consistent results. When setting these goals, remember to be realistic – if you are a small firm, it may take longer to reach the same level as larger firms. 

Create a Website That is User Friendly and Optimized for the Search Engines

Your law firm’s website should be designed with both users and search engines in mind. Search engine optimization (SEO) is a crucial part of any digital marketing strategy, so make sure to prioritize this when building your website. This means utilizing keyword-rich content that correctly uses headers, tags, titles, and meta descriptions, as well as providing an optimized website structure and fast loading speed. Additionally, you should ensure that your website is secure and easy to navigate for users. This will help improve the user experience and increase conversion rates from potential clients. 

Utilize Content Marketing Tactics That are Targeted to Potential Clients 

Law firms should have content marketing strategies tailored to target potential clients. This can include blog posts, infographics, videos, and podcasts that cover topics related to the law firm’s practice areas. Creating content that is educational, entertaining, and engaging can help demonstrate an understanding of the issues facing your potential clients and provide an effective way for them to learn more about your services. If done correctly, content marketing can help you build relationships with new prospects and establish credibility as a law firm. In order to maximize results, be sure to select formats and topics that are likely to resonate with your target audience. 

Take Advantage of Social Media Platforms 

Social media is more than just an online platform for interacting with friends and family – it can also be an effective tool for promoting your law firm. Social media allows you to directly engage with potential clients and build relationships in real-time. Additionally, by using social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter, you can share content from other sources that may be of interest to your target audience. This will help establish your presence on the platform as an authoritative resource for legal information, which is likely to attract more prospective clients. 

Make Use of Pay-Per-Click Advertising 

Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising is a powerful tool for law firms looking to generate more qualified leads. PPC allows you to create targeted ads that will appear in search engine results when specific keywords are used. This will help increase brand visibility and ensure that your ads reach potential clients who are actively searching for legal services. Additionally, PPC allows you to track the results of your campaigns and make adjustments as necessary in order to maximize return on investment (ROI). 

Taking the time to create a brand identity for your business and develop marketing plans around these goals can help propel you to success. Once you have a cohesive plan, it’s essential to create a website that is easy to use and optimized for organic search traffic. Additionally, content strategies such as blogging or creating explainer videos can target potential clients who are in need of your services/products. Those looking for further engagement with their clients should consider utilizing social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Additionally, pay-per-click advertising can be leveraged to attract qualified leads and track the results of campaigns. By following these tips, you should be able to create a strong digital presence for your law firm that will bring in more business and generate higher revenue!

What Should be Included in an End User License Agreement?

End User License Agreements (EULAs) are the legal documents that establish the terms and conditions governing the use of software applications, websites, and other digital products. These agreements play a vital role in clarifying the rights and responsibilities of both software providers and users. Crafting an effective EULA requires a careful balance between legal precision and user-friendliness. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the key components that should be included in an EULA, ensuring that software providers can protect their interests while users fully understand their obligations.

Defining the Parties

Every EULA should begin by clearly defining the parties involved in the agreement. This means specifying the software provider’s identity and contact information, as well as detailing the user’s role. Accurate identification of the parties helps prevent confusion and establishes the foundation for a transparent contractual relationship.

Scope of License

Now let’s move on to the next thing you should know – the scope of the license. A crucial element of an EULA is the explicit declaration of the license scope granted to the end user. This section outlines the ways in which the software can be used, including any limitations or restrictions imposed by the provider. The scope could encompass details such as permitted installations, usage on multiple devices, and any geographical limitations.

User Obligations

Underneath the umbrella of rights come user obligations. This section delineates the responsibilities and conduct expected from the end user. It might include points related to data security, lawful usage, and restrictions on reverse engineering. By outlining these expectations, the EULA aims to promote responsible usage and protect the software provider’s interests.

Intellectual Property Rights

Intellectual property rights are at the core of any software offering. A EULA should comprehensively address how the provider’s intellectual property is protected. This involves specifying the ownership of the software, any trademarks associated with it, and the user’s obligations not to infringe upon these rights. This section is essential for safeguarding the provider’s valuable creations.

Privacy and Data Usage

In an age of increasing digital awareness, the EULA should include a comprehensive section addressing privacy and data usage. This section outlines how user data is collected, stored, and processed. Additionally, it should inform users about the measures in place to protect their data, any third parties involved in data processing, and their rights regarding data control and consent.

Warranties and Disclaimers

Clearly outlining warranties and disclaimers is crucial for establishing expectations and minimizing potential legal disputes. The EULA should describe any warranties provided by the software provider, as well as disclaim any implied warranties. It’s important to specify any limitations of liability, outlining the extent to which the provider is responsible for any issues arising from the use of the software.

Termination and Consequences

The termination clause outlines the scenarios under which the EULA can be terminated by either party. This section should detail the consequences of termination, including the user’s obligations upon discontinuing use of the software. It may also cover scenarios where the provider can revoke the license due to misuse or breach of the agreement’s terms.

Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

To ensure a clear legal framework, the EULA should specify the governing law that applies to the agreement. Additionally, it should detail the procedures for resolving disputes, including whether arbitration or litigation is the preferred method. By addressing these aspects, the EULA promotes predictability in case of disagreements.

 

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, crafting a comprehensive End User License Agreement (EULA) is pivotal for both software providers and users. The components discussed in this guide serve as a foundational framework to create effective and user-friendly agreements that outline rights, responsibilities, and expectations. By meticulously defining parties, scoping licenses, setting user obligations, protecting intellectual property rights, addressing privacy concerns, and outlining warranties and disclaimers, a robust EULA can be established. Furthermore, termination clauses and dispute resolution mechanisms provide a clear pathway for addressing issues that may arise over time.

Ultimately, a well-drafted EULA enhances transparency and trust between software providers and users. It ensures that users are fully aware of their rights and obligations, while also safeguarding the interests of the provider. As technology continues to shape the way we interact with software, the role of EULAs in shaping these interactions cannot be overstated. By adhering to the principles outlined in this guide, software providers can create EULAs that are not only legally sound but also respectful of user concerns, fostering a more harmonious digital ecosystem for all parties involved.

ZEUS Applauds New Law to Legalise E-scooter use in Ireland

ZEUS, a leading Irish mobility company, welcomes the recent signing of the Irish Road Traffic and Roads Bill by President Higgins. The legislation, set to be enacted in the coming months, represents a significant milestone towards promoting sustainable transportation options in Ireland. 

The introduction of this law signifies the recognition by the Irish government of the importance of embracing innovative and eco-friendly mobility solutions. ZEUS is excited to contribute to the development of sustainable transport schemes in collaboration with cities and towns across Ireland. 

“We commend the Irish government for taking this long-awaited and forward-thinking step in legalising electric scooter use,” said Damian Young, CEO of ZEUS. “We are eager to partner with towns and cities in Ireland to build efficient and eco-friendly transportation networks that enhance connectivity and offer residents and visitors a convenient and sustainable way to move around”. 

The Carlow-headquartered company has a proven track record in providing shared electric scooter services that prioritise safety, accessibility and environmental sustainability. As Ireland’s only homegrown scooter company with extensive experience in numerous cities worldwide, the company is well-prepared to adapt its successful model to the Irish market. 

“ZEUS’ mission has always been to transform urban mobility and make cities more liveable,” added Damian Young. “We believe that electric scooters can play a crucial role in achieving these goals, and we are excited to be part of Ireland’s journey towards a greener and more connected future”. 

ZEUS’ unique three-wheeled e-scooter has many advantages over conventional two-wheel models. The three-wheel innovation is more appealing to a wider range of users, including a broader demographic in age and gender and those with disabilities, while helping prevent misuse and minimise dangerous driving. 

As ZEUS looks ahead to the implementation of the new law, the company is committed to working closely with local authorities, community stakeholders and city planners to ensure responsible and well-integrated operations. The company’s objective is to contribute to reducing congestion, improving air quality and enhancing the overall quality of life for people in Ireland. 

ZEUS is actively preparing for the launch of its electric scooter sharing service in Ireland, with plans to deploy a fleet of reliable, high-quality scooters that adhere to the highest safety standards. The company is committed to fostering a culture of responsible riding and has implemented various measures, including rider education initiatives and innovative safety features, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all users. 

How technology is changing the practice of law?

In today’s digital age, technology has become an essential part of the legal profession. Lawyers rely on technology to research cases, communicate with clients and other Child Pornography Attorney, and store and retrieve documents. Technology has also allowed lawyers to provide legal services in a more cost-effective and efficient manner. For example, many law firms now use technology to create and manage electronic files, which helps to reduce the amount of paper that is used in the office. Additionally, technology has allowed lawyers to offer legal services online, which is convenient for clients who do not live near a law firm.

Impact of Technology

One of the ways that technology is changing the legal profession is by making it easier for lawyers to access information. For example, there are now many online databases that lawyers can access in order to research cases. In addition, there are now many software programs that can help lawyers draft legal documents. This technology can save lawyers time and money, and it can also help them produce high-quality legal documents.

Another way that technology is changing the legal profession is by making it easier for people to access legal services. For example, there are now many online law firms that offer legal services to people all over the world. In addition, there are now many smartphone apps that allow people to get legal advice from lawyers. This technology makes it easier for people to access legal services, and it also makes the process of hiring a lawyer more convenient.

Finally, technology is also changing the way that lawyers communicate with their clients. For example, many lawyers now use email and Skype to communicate with their clients. This technology allows lawyers to communicate with their clients quickly and easily, and it also allows them to save money on telephone calls.

Fears related to these changes

While technology has had a positive impact on the practice of law, there are some challenges that lawyers face when it comes to technology. For example, lawyers can find it difficult to keep up with the latest technology trends and to learn how to use new technology tools. In addition, technology can be expensive and many law firms may not have the financial resources to invest in new technology. Finally, some lawyers are concerned that technology will replace them and they will no longer be needed in the legal profession. However, this is not likely to happen as technology can only do so much and lawyers still provide essential services that cannot be replaced by technology. Overall, technology is changing the legal profession for the better and lawyers should embrace these changes.

Final Note

Overall, technology is changing the legal profession in many ways. It is making it easier for lawyers to do their jobs, and it is also making it easier for people to access legal services. In addition, technology is changing the way that lawyers communicate with their clients. All of these changes are making the legal profession more efficient and more affordable. As a result, technology is making the legal profession more accessible to people all over the world. Thanks to technology, the practice of law is becoming more democratic every day. Click here to learn more.