15 October 2026
By Mary Bermingham
mary@TheCork.ie

Legal News

Mitchelstown native and Dublin-based barrister John Moher SC has been appointed Senior Counsel, one of the highest professional distinctions at The Bar of Ireland. He was formally called to the Inner Bar at a ceremony in the Four Courts recently. John is also a member of the New York Bar and practised as a Public Defender in Queens, New York for three years from 2003 – 2006.

The appointment marks his transition from Junior Counsel to Senior Counsel, commonly known as “taking silk”. It is a significant professional distinction recognising barristers whose standing, experience and expertise equip them to undertake work of particular complexity and importance.

Pictured is John Moher SC from Mitchelstown, Co Cork with his daughters Clauldia (age 10) and Olivia (age 15) who was amongst 17 barristers this year called to the Inner Bar at a ceremony in the Supreme Court in Dublin. Also known as ‘Taking Silk’, the call to the Inner Bar marks the transition from Junior Counsel to Senior Counsel for members recognised as possessing specialist skills and expertise in the practice of law and advocacy. Picture Conor McCabe Photography.

Chair of the Council of The Bar of Ireland, Séamus Clarke SC, said: “I warmly congratulate John on this significant achievement. His appointment reflects the expertise, judgement and professional integrity required of Senior Counsel. It is a proud moment for him, and I wish him every success in this next chapter of his career.”

John is one of 17 barristers called to the Inner Bar this year, seven of whom are women. Following today’s ceremony, The Bar of Ireland has 2,084 members, including 380 Senior Counsel.