Terra Firma Chambers is delighted to announce that Maurice O’Carroll has joined the Chambers with effect from 2nd November 2009.  Maurice called to the Bar in 1995 and has developed a varied and successful practice with particular emphasis on Planning, Employment, Public and Administrative Law, Professional Negligence and Commercial Law as well as general reparation.  He has conducted planning inquires for developers, objectors and local authorities and has appeared on many occasions in the Employment Tribunal and Employment Appeal Tribunal.  He is recommended in the Legal 500, 2009 as having a “loyal following … for his expertise in planning appeals, extending his practice to professional negligence reparation actions”.

Gordon Steele QC, Chairman of Terra Firma Chambers, said, “Maurice’s extensive experience and expertise make him a valuable addition to Terra Firma.  He has a considerable reputation in planning law in particular and his arrival further enhances Terra Firma’s strength in this core practice area”.

Maurice is also a Legal Associate to the Royal Town Planning Institute, and has been a Standing Junior Counsel to the Scottish Government since 2003.   In addition to his extensive experience conducting civil actions within the Court of Session (both at appeal at first instance), Maurice has experience of appearing in the Sheriff Courts and the Land Court.  Maurice has also gained jury trial experience in his capacity as an ad hoc advocate depute for the Crown Office, a position he has held since 2000.