Legal colleagues pay tribute to retiring state solicitor

When members of the legal profession gathered to honour Peter Jones, state solicitor for Westmeath, on his retirement on Friday, there were almost as many warm words for his colleague, Emma Sheerin, as for Peter himself.

Judge Keelan Johnston led the tributes at Mullingar Courthouse, joined by Will Fennelly, SC, on behalf of the Midland Bar Association, Helena Kiely, on behalf of the DPP, Superintendent Bláithín Moran on behalf of An Garda Síochána, and Bob Marren, on behalf of local members of the legal profession. Margaret Rafferty, manager of the Court Service in Mullingar and Athlone, directed proceedings, and also paid tribute to Peter and Emma on behalf of herself and her colleagues.

Judge Johnston opened the tributes, pointing out that the gathering was a joyful occasion, and raising some laughs, such as when he referred to Peter’s dress style (“sometimes you wonder if he’s going to the catwalk or the court”).

Having spoken to Peter’s brother Barry, the judge had biographical details on Peter, from his early days in Dublin, to his three years in the property business, during which he did the entry exams for the Law Society, and his move to Mullingar, “and to the offices of Tom Shaw”.

“He thrived under the guidance of the Shaws, and ultimately decided to set up his own practice, with their support. He found their mentorship and guidance invaluable.

“About four to five years after setting up a practice, Peter was appointed as state solicitor for County Westmeath. He took over from the legendary Kevin Wallace. He had big shoes to fill, and fill them he did, with style and competency.” The judge said that Peter rose to the challenge, and he was also was noted for his empathy and consideration of victims of crime. He has a reputation for being a firm, but fair opponent, who displays nothing but courtesy and respect to his colleagues and to the court, he said.

“He was fortunate to have Emma [Sheerin] to assist him so ably in his task as state solicitor. They made an exceptional team; you could describe them as a dream team. They were always well prepared, flexible, practical, and courteous in the discharge of their duties.”

The judge spoke about Peter’s pastimes and involvement in organisations such as the Lynn Singers, school boards, and as an adjudicator for the Gráinne O’Neill Memorial Legal Essay Competition.

“Peter’s commitment to his family and friends is the most important focus in his life. His siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends will acknowledge that Peter will do whatever he can to assist his family and friends. That is the real testament to the type of compassionate person that he is.

“Peter’s departure from the role of state solicitor is not the end, but the beginning of a new chapter. He’ll continue with practice and provide the efficient and professional service for which he is highly respected.

“His enthusiasm for life and work is reflected in the fact that he was recently elected as president of the Midland Bar Association.

“Peter, on behalf of myself, Judge Fergus and Judge Connolly, Judge Scully and Judge Dean, I want to wish you all the best in this new chapter of your life, and hope that you have more downtime to indulge your interests.”

Solicitor Bob Marren, in his remarks, pointed out that Peter served as state solicitor for 35 years: “In those days [when Peter took over], Kevin P Walsh was an institution. He strode the legal landscape in Mullingar, but I think we’ve beaten that. I think we have a new colossus.

“Peter has done a wonderful job as state solicitor. He has been diligent, hard-working and empathetic. He is a loyal colleague, a person who has your back and will go to the ends of the earth to help, to advise.

“Peter, you should be proud of the contribution you’ve made to the law in County Westmeath and to the state solicitor’s profession. Congratulations, well done, and thank you.”

Ms Rafferty, concluding the tributes, said: “As the saying goes, a bird never flew on one wing, and at this juncture, we would like to acknowledge the great work done by your legal executive, Emma Sheerin.

“She has been a vital cog in the wheels, who has tremendous energy and organisational skills.

“You work so well together and seamlessly with our staff, Aisling, Olive, Lisa, Claire, Rhona, Susan and Barbara, and it’s that dynamic relationship of the dream team that we will miss.

“We wish you the best of luck and continued good health; you will never be too far away and our door is always open.”

Peter closed the proceedings, before those present enjoyed refreshments. He thanked all those present, including members of his family, for their tributes and the gifts he received, and said that Emma would speak for herself, as she always does.

Presentations of gifts and flowers were made to Peter and Emma during the event.