Byrne Wallace Shields LLP Announces Winner of the 2026 Hugh Garvey Memorial Award
Thursday, 12 March 2026
Byrne Wallace Shields LLP is delighted to congratulate University of Galway law student, Leah Gallagher, recipient of the 2026 Byrne Wallace Shields LLP Hugh Garvey Memorial Award for Intellectual Property Law.
Presented annually in partnership with the School of Law at the University of Galway, this prestigious award recognises the final‑year law student who achieves the highest marks in Intellectual Property Law. Leah’s outstanding academic performance and dedication to the study of this dynamic and rapidly evolving field make her a truly deserving winner.
The award commemorates the life and career of the late Hugh Garvey, an NUI Galway graduate who began his legal journey as a trainee solicitor with LK Shields Solicitors LLP. Over his distinguished career, including more than a decade as Managing Partner, Hugh was widely admired for his commitment to integrity, innovation, and excellence within the legal profession.
In January 2024, ByrneWallace LLP and LK Shields Solicitors LLP merged to form Byrne Wallace Shields LLP, bringing together the strengths and shared values of both firms. We are proud to continue this award in Hugh’s honour under our new name, reflecting our continued commitment to supporting the next generation of legal talent, particularly in areas as impactful as intellectual property law.
As this year’s award winner, Leah received a bursary to support her ongoing studies and career development. She was formally recognised at the University’s Lá na nGradam ceremony on Friday, 6th March 2026. Gemma Forde, Partner and Head of our Galway office attended the prizegiving ceremony to congratulate Leah on her achievement.
On behalf of everyone at Byrne Wallace Shields LLP, we extend our warmest congratulations to Leah on this exceptional achievement. Her academic excellence and dedication to intellectual property law reflect the very qualities celebrated through the Hugh Garvey Memorial Award. We wish her every success as she continues her studies and embarks on her legal career.
