WEALTH December 16, 2025 0 Comments

Why Byrne Wallace’s Bold Move to Bring Kevin Harnett Onboard Could Reshape Construction Law Forever

Ever wonder what it takes to become a heavyweight in the world of construction law—someone who not only knows the rules but rewrites the playbook? Meet Kevin Harnett, the new powerhouse partner at Byrne Wallace Shields LLP, a firm already known for its ironclad grip on Ireland’s construction sector. With two decades navigating the rocky terrain of both transactional deals and thorny disputes, Kevin’s the sort of legal eagle who’s been around the block—and then some. His clients run the gamut from public bodies to specialist subcontractors, all seeking his savvy to untangle the messiest disputes before they spiral out of control. As new industry standards like the RIAI 2025 Construction Contracts shake things up, who better to have in your corner than someone recognized as one of Ireland’s top 10 experts in construction and energy law? Strap in—the construction law scene just got a whole lot more interesting. LEARN MORE

Kevin Harnett has joined Byrne Wallace Shields LLP as partner in the firm’s construction law practice.

Harnett has 20 years’ experience advising on all aspects of construction law, encompassing both transactional and contentious matters, and is widely regarded as a leading lawyer in the construction sector.

He acts for various stakeholders, including public bodies, developers, main contractors, funders, owners, tenants, insolvency practitioners, specialist sub-contractors, sureties and materials suppliers.

Harnett advises a range of domestic and international clients in high value and complex construction cases in alternative dispute resolution processes, including conciliation, mediation, adjudication, expert determination and arbitration, as well as before the superior courts.

Recognised as one of Ireland’s top 100 lawyers, and specifically one of the top 10 lawyers advising on construction and energy, Harnett previously headed up the construction practice of another Dublin law firm, and also practised for a number of years with an international law firm.

Commenting on Harnett’s appointment, Managing Partner Feargal Brennan said: “We are delighted to welcome Kevin to the firm.

“Byrne Wallace Shields LLP has long been recognised as one of Ireland’s leading law firms advising the construction sector.

“This sector has experienced significant growth and we have seen an increasing level of projects arise which call upon our teams to work collaboratively, combining their individual knowledge and experience to offer clients the best legal service and advice.

“Kevin’s wealth of experience and track record will further strengthen our range of services and expertise.

“His appointment also demonstrates the firm’s continued growth and our ongoing commitment to proactively support our clients within this sector.”

Byrne Wallace Shields LLP Head of Infrastructure, Construction and Energy Martin Cooney added, “The recent introduction of the new RIAI 2025 Construction Contracts will have a significant impact on the construction industry, and organisations will need experienced lawyers to help them navigate the key changes, particularly in the area of dispute resolution, where Kevin has specialist expertise.

New Construction Law partner Kevin Harnett with Partner and Head of Infrastructure, Construction and Energy, Martin Cooney.

“Kevin’s experience advising on complex alternative dispute resolution cases will provide our clients with invaluable insights and advice when adhering to the new requirements around adjudication, conciliation and arbitration in construction disputes.

“We are looking forward to working with Kevin and drawing on his in-depth knowledge and expertise. We would like to wish Kevin every success in his new role.”

Photo: Partner and Head of Projects and Infrastructure, Fergal Ruane; new Construction Law partner Kevin Harnett; Managing Partner, Feargal Brennan; and Partner and Head of Infrastructure, Construction and Energy, Martin Cooney.