Patrick Coleman Solicitor

Patrick Coleman

Trainee Solicitor

Dublin

Bio & Credentials

About

Patrick Coleman is a Trainee Solicitor specialising in sensitive cases involving sexual assault. He works closely with individuals affected by historical sexual abuse within institutional settings, as well as those who have experienced more recent sexual assaults.

Experience

Patrick Coleman has experience advising clients in private matters arising from sexual assault and approaches each case with care, discretion, and a clear understanding of the profound personal impact such experiences can have.

Patrick is committed to providing a safe, confidential, and supportive environment for his clients, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and informed at every stage of the process. Patrick Coleman acts exclusively for survivors and is dedicated to providing compassionate, client-focused representation in matters that are often deeply personal and challenging.

Patrick understands that engaging with the legal system can feel overwhelming, particularly for individuals who have experienced trauma. For this reason, he offers free initial consultations, during which he takes the time to explain the process clearly, answer questions, and allow clients to make informed decisions at their own pace.

Education

Patrick holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and is admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in Ireland. He has undertaken advanced legal training across a range of specialist areas, including GDPR, healthcare, and commercial contract law.

Most notably, he holds a Diploma in Advanced Dispute Resolution and Litigation, which is particularly relevant to his practice in sensitive sexual abuse cases. This qualification underpins his ability to navigate complex, adversarial proceedings with skill, care, and a strong focus on achieving favourable outcomes for his clients.

Recent Work

The Kilkenny school sexual abuse case involving Martin O'Flaherty reveals the suffering of 29 boys, with recent court proceedings uncovering new victims after 40 years.

The Scoping Inquiry report revealed 590 allegations of sexual abuse in special schools, disproportionately affecting vulnerable children. The abuse spanned 17 special schools, with over 190 abusers implicated. Institutions like Lota and Holy Family School were key sites of abuse. Survivors of abuse in special schools are encouraged to seek confidential support.

An Garda Síochána has received more than 160 reports of historical sexual abuse in religious-run schools since launching a public appeal. The reports follow the release of the Scoping Inquiry, which uncovered nearly 3,000 claims of abuse. Survivors are encouraged to contact Gardaí, who have assured privacy and support throughout the investigation process.