E118 The Fifth Court featuring retired judge Mary Fahy

Judge Mary Fahy retired from the Irish District Court on January 31, 2025, concluding a distinguished 31-year judicial career. Appointed to the bench in the early 1990s, she served in various jurisdictions, including Dublin and Galway, and was known for her commitment to accessible justice and her forthright approach to the law.Law

Career Highlights

• The ‘C’ Case: In the late 1990s, Judge Fahy presided over the high-profile 'C' case, involving a 13-year-old girl who became pregnant after rape and sought to travel abroad for an abortion. Judge Fahy ruled in favor of the girl's right to travel, a decision later upheld by the High Court. This case attracted significant attention and was the only instance where she recalled receiving hate mail during her career.
• Aran Islands Court Sittings: Demonstrating her dedication to community-based justice, Judge Fahy traveled by ferry to Inis Mór three times a year to hold court sessions in both English and Irish, addressing cases from all three Aran Islands. She believed these sittings were vital for ensuring that island residents felt connected to the justice system.
• Golfgate Trial: In 2022, she presided over the 'Golfgate' trial, swiftly dismissing charges against former senator Donie Cassidy and others after a brief deliberation, stating that the prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case.

As always guests are asked for their (sometimes) legally based recommendations for books or movies. Judge Fahy proposed the movie Fargo and a book , The Coast Road, by Alan Murrin

The episode also includes recent important cases drawn from the Decisis casebook. These are brought to you thanks to Charltons Solicitors and Collaborative Practitioners

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