Michael O’Higgins
Michael O'Higgins is a prominent barrister in Ireland known for his expertise in criminal law. He has garnered attention for his role in high-profile cases, including defending individuals accused of serious offenses. In a recent appeal, he represented former Irish soldier Lisa Smith, arguing that there was insufficient evidence to prove her membership in the Islamic State. O'Higgins emphasized the need to consider his client's motives for traveling to Syria and questioned the legal definitions of membership in unlawful organizations. His legal arguments reflect a commitment to ensuring that defendants receive fair treatment within the judicial system.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Judge O’Higgins thanked the jury for their service and excused them from jury service for five years.
Jury asked to decide if sergeant used ‘reasonable force’ after baton strike on ex-garda – The Irish Times
Ireland· 2026-02-06
Michael O’Higgins is prosecuting the case against Ruth Lawrence.
Man died from gunshot wounds to head and neck, Ruth Lawrence murder trial told – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-10-20
Michael O’Higgins is the prosecutor in the trial of Ruth Lawrence.
Fisherman tells Ruth Lawrence murder trial he noticed ‘dreadful smell coming off’ lake island – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-10-17
Michael O’Higgins is one of the senior counsel on Paul Murphy's legal team.
Paul Murphy brings defamation case against Heather Humphreys – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-10-17
Michael O’Higgins defended Josh O’Brien and described the attack as terrible and driven by jealousy.
Woman was stabbed more than 50 times by ‘jealous’ former boyfriend, court hears – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-10-09
Michael O’Higgins SC was opening the prosecution case in the trial of Ruth Lawrence.
Two men were ‘shot to death’ and Dublin woman was part of ‘a team’ with boyfriend, jury told – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-10-09
Michael O'Higgins represented Joseph Cahill in court.
Man sentenced for unlawful killing – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-07-31
Michael O’Higgins SC is representing Alan Harte in his appeal against the conviction.
Criminal who kidnapped, tortured Kevin Lunney challenges constitutionality of conviction – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-07-28
Defence Senior Counsel Michael O’Higgins argued that no self-respecting legal system could convict Lisa Smith of being a member of an unlawful organisation.
Lisa Smith lawyers argue no legal system could convict her of Isis membership – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-04-11
Arguing at the Court of Appeal, her barrister Michael O’Higgins said that Smith travelled to Syria out of a religious obligation.
No ‘smoking gun’ proving Lisa Smith did anything for Islamic State, lawyer argues in appeal – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-04-10