The Irish Courts are introducing important updates for schools, legal professionals and court users in September 2026. From a refreshed legal education programme to new guidance on generative artificial intelligence, the Courts Service has announced several developments affecting access to justice and court administration.
Irish Courts refresh ‘Let’s look at the law’ programme
The Courts Service has launched an updated edition of its long-running Let’s look at the law schools programme. The refreshed resources are designed to make legal education more accessible and engaging for students and teachers across Ireland.
The updated programme includes:
- New lesson plans for classroom use
- Educational videos explaining legal concepts
- Mock trial materials to help students understand courtroom procedure
- Resources supporting discussion of rights, responsibilities and the justice system
The initiative provides schools with a practical introduction to how the Irish Courts operate and how legal principles affect everyday life. It also supports wider civic education alongside information available through gov.ie, Citizens Information Board services and the Courts Service.
New Irish Courts practice directions address generative AI
Separate practice directions on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence in court documents have been issued by the Presidents of the Court of Appeal and the High Court. The directions came into operation on 1 September 2026.
The development reflects the growing use of AI tools in professional and public services. Court users and legal practitioners must ensure that documents submitted to the Irish Courts are accurate, reliable and consistent with their professional obligations. AI-generated material should not replace careful legal research, verification or accountability.
The new guidance is relevant to solicitors, barristers and other practitioners preparing pleadings, affidavits, submissions or related court documents. It also highlights the importance of protecting confidential information and complying with data protection requirements overseen by bodies such as the Data Protection Commission.
Four Courts works and court-user updates
The Office of Public Works is carrying out fire-safety, accessibility and refurbishment works at the Gandon Building in Dublin’s Four Courts. Some courtrooms have been relocated because of noise and disruption, while practitioners and court users have been advised about returning to the building and changes affecting entrance gates.
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Other Irish Courts service changes
The Courts Service has also announced a number of local administrative updates. From 1 October 2026, the Tipperary District Court administration office will move from Clonmel Courthouse to Nenagh Courthouse.
In Leitrim, a County Registrar motion list scheduled for 8 October 2026 was cancelled and transferred to 15 October 2026. Meanwhile, the Dublin Civil Office and Community Law and Mediation have launched a pilot mediation service aimed at supporting the resolution of suitable civil matters.
These announcements demonstrate how court operations can change at local level. Court users should check official Courts Service notices before attending a hearing or contacting an administration office.
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What the updates mean for the public
- Schools can access more modern materials for teaching students about law.
- Legal practitioners must consider the new requirements for responsible AI use in court documents.
- Visitors to the Four Courts should allow for building works and possible courtroom changes.
- People using local courts should confirm office locations, dates and lists before travelling.
Key takeaway
The latest Irish Courts announcements combine legal education, digital-era professional guidance and practical court-service updates. The clearest advice for court users is to rely on current official notices, verify information carefully and plan ahead when attending court or submitting legal documents.
Article/Image Courtesy: Courts Service of Ireland
