Montana Lawyer October/November 2024

Experience Ireland with the 2025 Celtic CLE in Cork DOUG JAMES Last May, I had the privilege of joining other Montana

conversations and Irish refreshments with local barristers, solici tors, and judges. A day spent observing the Irish courts provided invaluable insight into their legal system, and we even visited the jail cells for those awaiting hearings—a stark reminder of the stakes involved in the justice system. Outside of the academic environment, Ireland’s charm await ed. We wandered Cork, enjoying the local taverns, Paradiso (an exceptional vegan restaurant), and the vibrant English Market. A week in Dublin capped off the trip with visits to historic sites, including Ireland’s oldest tavern, the Brazen Head (dating back to 1198), Christ Church, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, as well as lively music in cozy taverns. In 2025, the University of Montana will sponsor another CLE at UCC, this time focusing on “Comparative Constitutional Law: Persuading Agencies & Challenging Agency Actions.” Taught by Professors Hillary Wandler and Constance Van Kley, it promises to be another extraordinary program. The 2024 Celtic CLE was the best continuing legal educa tion experience I’ve ever had, and I am confident that 2025 will be just as rewarding. I strongly encourage you to attend, get to know other Montana attorneys, as well as our law students and faculty, and enjoy the incredible setting of Ireland.

lawyers and students from the University of Montana School of Law and University College Cork (UCC) to participate in the 2024 Celtic CLE in Cork, Ireland. I originally signed up eager to explore Ireland’s famous landscapes and immerse myself in its vibrant culture. What surprised me the most, however, was the unique opportunity to engage with law students, barristers, so licitors, and judges from both Ireland and Montana. It was truly an exceptional experience. Justice Jim Shea joined us as part of the Montana faculty. UCC, a prestigious institution with a student body of ap proximately 25,000, boasts a stunning campus. We took time to explore, visit various buildings, and meet with local students. Thanks to UCC’s close ties with the University of Montana, we were welcomed as family, not merely tourists. The CLE itself was a highlight. Taught by an outstanding faculty from both UCC and Montana, the topic, "Executive Immunity Under the Constitutions of Ireland and the United States," prompted lively discussions between the students and participants. The level of preparation and engagement was im pressive, and I left the classes feeling enriched and inspired. But the learning didn’t stop in the classroom. Our stud ies extended into informal settings, where we enjoyed great

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