Terry Rafferty

Lawyer, mediator, family man

Terry Rafferty

Lawyer, mediator, family man

I have extensive experience in private legal practice as an assistant solicitor, as a sole practitioner and in partnership, dealing with a wide variety of cases, including probate, conveyancing, family disputes and personal injury.

I have always preferred to resolve disputes rather than proceed to lengthy and expensive litigation, and I was often successful in encouraging a fair resolution. I bring a calm and stable personality, an open mind and good listening skills, combined with robustness and determination where necessary, to the mediation process.

Born and bred in Northern Ireland, I have been married for over 40 years and have 6 grown-up children and 2 grandchildren, which has provided many opportunities to develop dispute resolution skills. I have always had an interest in the dynamics of personal relationships.

I am currently an Appeals Tribunal Judge, dealing with claims for various types of welfare benefits. This work involves practising on a daily basis listening skills, relating with empathy and keeping an open mind at all times, while managing the conduct of hearings. As a tribunal judge I deal regularly with sensitive and complex issues.

I have served in a voluntary capacity on the Board of Governors of 2 local schools and on the Board of Management of AutismNI, Northern Ireland's leading autism charity. I have been the treasurer of the local support group of that charity for the past 15 years, having previously served as its first chairman.

Qualifications

Bachelor of Laws (Hons.)(QUB)

Solicitor of the Supreme Court in Northern Ireland

Legally Qualified Panel Member of Appeals Tribunals

Graduate of Civil and Commercial Mediation Course run by the Institute of Professional Legal Studies

Member of the Law Society Mediation Service administered by the Law Society of Northern Ireland