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50+ Years
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Trusted Legal Services in Magherafelt
Established in 1929, John J McNally has grown to become one of the largest and busiest legal practices in Mid-Ulster. Our firm provides comprehensive legal representation across property, personal injury, criminal defence, medical negligence, family law, and commercial litigation. With a team of highly qualified solicitors and experienced legal secretaries, we combine decades of expertise with a commitment to client care. Our directors, Marysia Kelly and Stephen Atherton, lead a dedicated team that includes specialists in medical negligence, sports law, and criminal defence.

We pride ourselves on maintaining accessibility through our 24-hour police station call-out service and free initial consultations. Our practice incorporates modern legal approaches while preserving the traditional values of integrity and community service that have defined us for over nine decades.
Services
Property Conveyancing Personal Injury Claims Criminal Defence Medical Negligence Family Law Sports Law Representation Employment Law Notary Public Services Litigation Wills & Estate Planning
Details
  • Year established: 1929
Highlights and features
  • We offer over 90 years of legal expertise in Mid-Ulster
  • Our team includes specialists in medical negligence and criminal defence
  • 24/7 police station representation available
  • Competitive rates for will drafting and estate planning
  • Directors hold specialist qualifications in sports law
Services
Criminal Defence
Our criminal defence team provides 24/7 legal representation in police stations, magistrates courts, and crown courts across Northern Ireland. Led by specialist solicitor Stephen Atherton, we offer free initial consultations and legal aid assistance. Our expertise includes youth court proceedings, high-profile cases, and prisoner rights protection through judicial reviews and parole hearings.
Medical Negligence
Specialist medical negligence lawyer Marysia Kelly investigates claims involving misdiagnosis, birth injuries, and fatal medical accidents. We engage expert witnesses to assess treatment standards and advise on claim merits. Our services include free initial consultations and support for clients throughout Northern Ireland seeking compensation for substandard medical care.
Property Conveyancing
We handle residential and commercial property transactions across Northern Ireland. Our services include buying/selling homes, remortgaging, landlord-tenant matters, and commercial property deals. The team assists first-time buyers and experienced investors with straightforward, no-fuss conveyancing processes supported by experienced legal professionals.
Notary Public
Alison O'Malley provides notarial services as the only Notary Public in South Derry. Services include document authentication, oath administration, power of attorney preparation, and apostille legalisation. We handle international business documentation, property transactions, and official acts requiring certified legal verification for clients across Northern Ireland.
Sports Law Representation
Director Stephen Atherton offers specialist sports law services informed by his professional football background and master's qualification. We represent players, clubs, and organisations in contract negotiations, welfare matters, and career management. Our services combine legal expertise with practical understanding of athletes' unique challenges throughout their professional journeys.
People
Marysia Kelly
Director
Specialist medical negligence lawyer with extensive experience in clinical negligence claims. Qualified solicitor since 2005, now director of John J McNally Ltd. Leads complex cases involving birth injuries, misdiagnosis, and fatal medical accidents across Northern Ireland.
Stephen Atherton
Director
Criminal defence specialist and sports law qualified solicitor. Former professional footballer with Hearts FC. Provides 24/7 police station representation and represents clients in all Northern Ireland courts. Holds Masters in Sports Law from Sheffield Hallam University.
Alison O'Malley
Notary Public
Qualified Notary Public since 2011, one of only 33 in Northern Ireland. Specialises in international legal documentation, property transactions, and official certifications. Provides essential notarial services including document authentication and apostille legalisation.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialise in?
We specialise in property conveyancing, personal injury claims, criminal defence, medical negligence, family law, sports law, employment law, and notary public services across Northern Ireland.
Do you offer 24/7 legal assistance?
Yes, our criminal defence department provides 24-hour police station call-out services and emergency legal representation throughout Northern Ireland.
Can I get help with wills and estate planning?
Yes, we offer competitive-rate will drafting services and comprehensive estate planning advice including powers of attorney and inheritance tax considerations.
Are your solicitors specialists in their fields?
Yes, our directors hold specialist qualifications in medical negligence, sports law, and criminal defence, with team members recognised as experts in their respective practice areas.
Do you handle international legal documentation?
Yes, our Notary Public service provides document authentication, apostille legalisation, and international business documentation services for clients requiring cross-border legal verification.