Competition Law
The European and Competition Law team at Hayes solicitors helps clients with both a wide range of advisory and transactional matters and with competition authority criminal investigations.
Advisory services
We act on behalf of a number blue-chip clients, SMEs and industry bodies across a number of highly regulated sectors and provide a comprehensive advisory service. Our clients include Unilever, the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland, and the Society of the Irish Motor Industry.
Merger notifications
The team assists clients in notifying mergers to the Irish Competition Authority.
Litigation
We have represented clients in major cases with far-reaching implications for competition within various sectors, including the pharmaceutical and grocery sectors.
Criminal prosecutions
We have acted for a number of defendants in relation to competition law criminal prosecutions in the Central Criminal Court, including the landmark case of DPP-v-PG Duffy & Sons Limited and Patrick Duffy.
What clients say: Competition Law
'David Phelan is very good with clients and does a lot of interesting media work'
'He is very bright, reads everything and is incredibly hard-working. He's a fantastic solicitor.
Joe is very hands-on.'
'He adopts a strategic approach and displays thorough preparation, which leads to skilled representation.'
'He adopts a strategic approach and displays thorough preparation, which leads to skilled representation.'
'He's a good pair of hands.'
'Breda O’Malley's deep knowledge, professionalism, and personable approach have been truly impressive. Furthermore, their dedication to being results-driven has consistently led to outstanding outcomes. Catherine Jane O’Rourke's extensive knowledge, professionalism, and approachable demeanour have made our interactions both pleasant and productive'
‘We have mostly worked with Cian Clinch who is a stand-out partner. We very much valued his flexibility and availability when needed at short notice.'
'Cian Clinch understood the underlying ethos of our business and was guided by it when speaking to vendors on our behalf, showing the ability to seek compromise or deal with issues firmly but respectfully as needed.’
‘The individuals at Hayes are knowledgeable and reliable. Specific partners, such as David Phelan, I’ve worked with are proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to delivering results, making them a pleasure to collaborate with.’
‘Joe O'Malley is the best litigator in Dublin. He works tirelessly for his clients. Extremely bright and cool under pressure. Simply top-class.'
‘Laura Fannin is my main contact. Always available, always cuts to the chase. Not afraid to advise on the commercially sound approach.’
'Laura Fannin is an exceptional professional in her area of expertise. Laura's expertise of data protection law, especially around cookies and other technologies and the complexity around consent in this context, is unmatched in my experience.'
‘Cian Clinch has been excellent. Always available and level headed with a great strategic approach to complex litigation.’
‘Robbie Slattery and Joseph O'Malley stand out as professionals who provide an excellent service and whose advice is always reliable and realistic.’
'Joe O'Malley leads the team and makes a very valuable contribution.’
‘Joe O'Malley is highly regarded for his hands-on approach and exceptional dedication to his clients. His personal touch is evident in every case, as he takes the time to truly understand his clients' needs and craft bespoke strategies that deliver results.'