Joanne O’Riordan aspires to continue her role in sports journalism while concurrently developing a career in law, potentially specialising in sports legislation. Jokingly she envisions a scenario where a Supreme Court session would have to be put on hold to cater for her interest in watching the Irish Women’s World Cup team.
Currently on a solicitor’s training programme, O’Riordan has always exhibited a penchant for law. She previously obtained a sports law diploma from the Law Society, proving her in-depth dedication to the subject. Her academic journey encompasses areas like constitutional and corporate law, which have deepened her understanding of the Constitution’s significance and the subtle role of EU law in expediting societal transformation.
Reflecting on significant constitutional case pioneers, she admires their courage. It was not only for their benefit but the victories also extended to a multitude of others.
O’Riordan, born with Total Amelia, a rare congenital disorder resulting in the lack of all four limbs, has a unique perspective on rights balance due to her lived experiences. For 27 years, her mother has cared for her, with professional carers stepping in over the past five years. She finds it challenging yet amusing to strike a balance between her personal freedom and the safety of her caregivers.
Engaging with health service executive legal representatives to verify her work travel plans often results in dramatic scenarios, as if anticipating an impending explosion. It is quite intriguing for her, especially from a negligence law point of view, to observe the high levels of cautiousness implemented to shield others from possible mishaps.
O’Riordan, seeking hands-on litigation experience, worked with Frank Buttimer, a solicitor based in Cork, in bustling district courts earlier in the year. The experience was a revelation, to say the least. There were instances where a single day’s court list exceeded 150 cases, making it considerably difficult to accord each individual the dignity they deserve. She empathises with a lot of the accused who, to a degree, have been let down by the state. One particular case involved a woman caught shoplifting nappies simply because she could not afford them.
O’Riordan admits she too is entangled in the system but due to significantly different circumstances owing to her disability. Nonetheless, the realisation of the potential to effect meaningful change through law is a major motivation, keeping her driven in her pursuits.
During her educational journey, she encountered numerous hurdles. She reached out to a professor’s assistant via email, requesting for study materials to be accessible online. However, she was informed that this was not possible due to copyright issues. Undeterred, she pleaded her case, stating, “Look, I need it; I don’t have any limbs.” With suitable proof including medical documentation, she was eventually given the resources.
She recounts her first trip to the Four Courts, where a security officer was required to find a wheelchair ramp. It saddened her that such a public facility wasn’t accessible for all, whether for work matters or due to involvement in a legal case. Beyond this, she noted that among the various solicitors’ offices located in close proximity to the Cork courthouse, only a single one offered step-free access.
She wishes for a “miniature minister for disabilities” in every government department to tackle daily barriers faced by the disabled population. She also suggests that law firms and the Law Society can assist in upholding the rights of those with disabilities.
She observes the financial ramifications she might bear as a higher earner, possibly having to cover the €16,000 bill for her wheelchair. “It would be different if I were receiving a substantial income like Denis O’Brien, but what if my earnings were merely above the threshold?” she questions.
On a related note, she finds it puzzling that her mother’s care allowance was discontinued in light of her receiving 30 hours per week of professional support. “Do they believe I magically grow limbs during the remainder of the time?” she jests.
In her view, networking has a significant role within the legal field, with sports like rugby playing a crucial part in creating connections. However, she highlights the fact that female lawyers lacked this network until recent years. The increasing participation and media attention on women’s sports is a positive development, albeit there is still a gap to bridge.
Reflecting on the amendments female participants would propose for the Constitution, she offers advice to those with disabilities contemplating a career in law. “You must absolutely go for it,” she recommends. Although she warns of the tough times and potential tears, she advocates for the strong sense of solidarity in the field and believes that the challenging journey will eventually prove to be rewarding.
Sofiya Kalinova, Ireland’s first deaf barrister, is passionate about championing those without a voice. Despite the numerous obstacles she faced due to her hearing disability, Kalinova was driven to study law and has made significant contributions to the profession that go far beyond what one might see on the surface.
With the help of Shannon Clarke, a sign language interpreter who translates Irish Sign Language (ISL), Kalinova expressed her deep-seated frustration towards the attitude of those who told her repeatedly during her childhood that her deafness was a hindrance. This false assumption steered her towards advocating for her rights and using her voice to make a difference.
Originally from Bulgaria, Kalinova chose Ireland as her place of study due to provisions for students with disabilities like hers, which included services for interpretation. She earned her law degree from University College Dublin (UCD) and took a preparatory course for her barrister’s degree at King’s Inns from Griffith College. Notably, she challenged the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) over being charged for interpreter services.
Sofiya found her academic journey particularly challenging during the Covid-19 outbreak. Post-pandemic, she was discontented with the limited funding for interpretation services that didn’t include extracurricular student activities. Believing in living a balanced student life, she hoped to partake in the events the university hosted.
Nonetheless, there were moments of self-doubt during her education. At such times, she would confide in her family, whose unwavering support was her pillar of strength. Her right to communicate through sign language was never compromised, which she believed was instrumental in her journey.
Hardships notwithstanding, Kalinova’s resilience led her to be called to the Bar the previous year. It was a moment of renowned triumph that made her defy all the frequent reminders of her perceived limitations. Yet, despite her achievements, she remains humble, striving to prove her worth constantly and dispel any doubts about her capabilities.
Kalinova was euphorically excited to observe the presence of ISL interpreters at the Supreme Court during the day of the ceremony. Her appreciation extended to the Courts Service and the judges, who showed her unambiguous respect and attention, making her feel a part of the proceedings. With her family present, it was a profoundly emotional and truly memorable day for her.
Currently, under the guidance of barristers David Leonard and Sharon Dillon-Lyons, Kalinova is content with the support she receives, despite the tension that pervades during court appearances. Especially, when interpreters are not present due to unexpected circumstances, and the subsequent silence envelops the courtroom as everyone bubbles with anticipation waiting for her next move. Nonetheless, she has grown accustomed to such scenarios.
Although the Courts Service accommodates interpreters, Kalinova bears the onus of scheduling them, adding a layer of pressure. She occasionally wishes the Courts Service would alleviate the scheduler’s task from her responsibilities, enabling her to exclusively concentrate on her practice.
Alongside, her experiences with online court hearings have brought forth their own set of difficulties, as being able to maintain proper visual contact in the limited “boxes” on the screen with the ISL interpreters can be tricky. Additionally, as ISL interpreters aren’t law-savvy, translating legal jargon and Latin terminology into sign language becomes challenging.
Though there are several accessibility complexities to address, Kalinova harbours optimism for future improvements. The Bar of Ireland’s encouraging stance towards her and the participation of nearly 200 barristers in deaf awareness education signifies her integration within the Bar and proves her equality.
Reflecting on her career choice, she expresses absolute satisfaction, asserting zero regrets despite her continuous unease and the intense scrutiny that follows her. Aware of the immense pressure she faces, Kalinova is determined to show her resolve and capabilities.
In her eyes, the term “impossible” is merely a perception adopted by those who wish not to challenge the normal state of things.
Nicola Saarsteiner, originally from Dublin, altered her academic path midway through her European studies degree at Trinity College, switching her focus due to her interest in debate and the engaging interactions with law students. Nicola realized there could be a professional route in this, where one gets paid for vocal discussions, driving her decision for the shift.
Diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 16, Nicola had already had visual seizures two years before her diagnosis, initially mislabelled as pre-migraine auras without the accompanying headache. The diagnosis was concerning for Nicola, particularly considering the initial prescribed medication severely impacted her cognitive abilities; She went from being the top in her class academically, to struggling to form a sentence in English.
Fortunately, a medication change after six months became a turning point for Nicola. The newly prescribed medication was effective in managing her epilepsy, with only a minor setback around her 30th birthday. Her condition has been well regulated since then.
Nicola has been an active advocate for young people affected with epilepsy in her association with Epilepsy Ireland, even serving on the organisation’s board. She explains that despite the varying nature of epilepsy – a condition associated with different types of seizures that require diverse medication – a large portion of those diagnosed (around 70%) could have their seizures fully controlled. However, the reality is that the number is considerably less, mainly due to the lack of precise knowledge among primary care physicians about which medications to prescribe, leading to a significant amount of trial and error. Nicola attributes her successful treatment to being fortunate enough to receive the correct medication early in her journey.
Stress, inadequate nutrition, and lack of sleep are all factors known to provoke epileptic seizures, and they are also often inherent to the demanding arena of legal practice. Despite the high-pressure nature of her job, however, Saarsteiner manages her epilepsy without it detrimentally affecting her. Although always mindful of her condition, she doesn’t let it cast a negative influence upon her life.
In school, her only negative encounter relating to her epilepsy was with a teacher. Other than that, she’s met with nothing but compassion and understanding from those around her. On the contrary, many people are interested in understanding what they should do in case she has a seizure. Despite this, she acknowledges the existence of certain stigmas associated with neurological conditions, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. Therefore, to her, transparency is crucial in preventing any miscommunication.
Saarsteiner believes those with neurological conditions like epilepsy should not hesitate to seek the support that’s available. Although discussing the condition is ultimately a personal decision, sharing one’s experiences can often encourage others to do the same.
Being self-employed and a barrister, Saarsteiner felt more apprehensive about disclosing her pregnancy than revealing her epilepsy. Starting a family while building a career motivation is challenging, particularly since women usually begin their careers as barristers in their mid-20s.
However, Saarsteiner emphasises that the real obstacle to becoming a barrister is more financial than gender-related. A female colleague was accurate in stating that establishing a solid financial footing takes about nine years. On the other hand, the occupation offers significant flexibility, which proves beneficial when juggling childcare and health management.
She found immense support amongst her colleagues at the Bar, especially when pregnant with her son. Both males and females displayed genuine willingness to assist.
In her continual journey of self-improvement, Saarsteiner advises other women to not hesitate in accepting work outside their comfort zone, a trait she notes is more commonly found in men. She also encourages women not to be deterred by others’ confidence and to seize any opportunities that come their way. Everyone, after all, is figuring things out as they go along.
Despite an outstanding year, the ambiguity concerning the source of the following pay cheque is most likely the leading cause of stress for the majority of Bar members, she expresses. However, she wouldn’t prefer any other career path.
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