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Navigating litigation in the digital age

CPD for Lawyers May 20, 2025

As part of La Touche Training’s Personal Injuries Conference 2025, we are pleased to feature a timely presentation by leading barrister and author Michael O’Doherty BL. His session, “Social Media on Trial: Its Power in Personal Injury Claims,” will explore how online content is reshaping personal injury litigation in Ireland.

Social media on trial: its power in Personal Injury claims

Social media has emerged as a powerful source of evidence in personal injury litigation. From posts and photos to check-ins and private messages, digital footprints are increasingly influencing the credibility of claims and the strategies of both plaintiff and defence teams.

In this presentation, Michael O’Doherty BL will examine the practical and legal implications of using social media evidence in court. Topics will include admissibility, ethical boundaries, recent case law, and best practices for advising clients and gathering evidence.

Key takeaways include:

  • Recognising admissible social media content and understanding its evidentiary value.
  • Assessing how online activity can bolster or damage claimant credibility.
  • Navigating discovery obligations and ethical responsibilities related to digital content.
  • Employing lawful and strategic methods to collect, preserve, and present social media evidence.
  • Exploring emerging tools and trends – including AI and platform-specific risks (e.g., TikTok, Threads).

This is an essential session for practitioners seeking to stay informed on the evolving intersection between digital media and litigation strategy.

About the speaker: Michael O’Doherty BL

Michael O’Doherty is a Dublin-based barrister with a specialist practice in internet, media, and privacy law. He is the author of Internet Law, the first Irish text dedicated to this fast-moving legal area, published by Bloomsbury Professional.
Michael’s background also includes extensive media experience as the founder of VIP Publishing, and he currently lectures in Internet Law at UCD’s Sutherland School of Law. His multidisciplinary expertise brings a unique and highly practical perspective to the legal treatment of online content in litigation.

Expertise includes:

  • Internet & Social Media Law
  • Employment & Media Law
  • Privacy & Data Protection
  • General Civil Litigation

Stay ahead in Personal Injuries Litigation

The Personal Injuries Conference 2025 brings together legal practitioners, in-house counsel, and insurance professionals for a focused exploration of the latest developments, case law, and litigation strategies in the personal injuries arena.
Attendees will benefit from expert-led sessions, CPD eLearning hours, and practical insights to apply directly to their practice.

Who should attend:

  • Solicitors and barristers working in personal injury litigation
  • Legal counsel managing personal injury claims in-house
  • Senior practitioners refining strategic litigation approaches
  • Insurance professionals engaged in defence litigation

The Personal Injuries Conference 2025

Secure your place today and ensure you remain at the forefront of Personal Injuries practice – Learn More & Register
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