In the world of Irish law and philanthropy, few names carry as much weight as Dr. Gerald Kean. With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Kean has built a reputation as a leading solicitor and a compassionate force dedicated to bettering the lives of his clients and giving back to his community. His remarkable career, defined by dedication, integrity, and an unwavering drive to make a positive impact, has been rightfully honoured at Hi Style’s Men of the Year Awards 2024.
Born in 1957 and educated at Coláiste Chríost Rí in Cork and De La Salle in Wicklow, Dr. Kean was drawn to law early on, influenced by family values and tradition. His mother’s family has a long legacy in the Irish legal system, with his uncles holding esteemed roles, including Chief Justice and Senior Counsel. Additionally, his father’s service in An Garda Siochana instilled in him a profound respect for integrity and duty.
After completing his Bachelor of Civil Law Degree from UCD, he trained under the late Michael Martin on Capel Street, qualifying as a solicitor in 1980. He later received an honorary doctorate degree from the American University in Florida.
The late 1980s marked a new chapter as he opened his practice on Exchequer Street, later moving to Pembroke Street, and ultimately establishing the firm’s current location at 4/5 Trinity Street, Dublin. Today, as the principal of Keans Solicitors, Dr. Kean remains the driving force behind a firm known for its transparency, efficiency, and close client relationships.
Although modern technology has transformed many aspects of legal practice, Dr. Kean’s approach to client service remains refreshingly personal. He believes in the power of face-to-face interaction, understanding that clients often seek more than legal representation—they look for reassurance and empathy. “I do believe in meeting with clients on a ‘face-to-face’ basis. I like to reassure them and approach everything in an optimistic and open fashion,” he says.
His commitment to supporting his clients, coupled with a dedication to transparent, honest communication, has been the hallmark of his practice. “I always mention to every client that their support going forward is the most important result I can achieve in looking after, successfully, their own problems.”
Beyond his legal career, Dr. Kean has made extraordinary contributions to numerous charities across Ireland. His philosophy of giving is simple yet profound: “The more you give, the more satisfaction you receive.” From supporting causes such as Penny Dinners in Cork and the Field of Dreams Project for people with Down Syndrome to contributing to the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC) and the Irish Rape Crisis Centre, Dr. Kean’s philanthropic work has impacted countless lives. He credits much of his passion for charity to inspirational figures like Catriona Twomey from Penny Dinners and Ray O’Callaghan, founder of the Field of Dreams Project.
One of Dr. Kean’s proudest achievements is the series of concerts he hosts at Drayton Manor, raising over €2.5 million for various charities. These events, organised with careful attention to detail and funded from his own resources, have become a cherished tradition. His distinctive fundraising initiatives, such as the playlist he made during the COVID-19 pandemic, serve as examples of how much he enjoys bringing people together for a good cause. By inviting friends to donate €1 per song they liked, he raised over €6,500—all in the spirit of kindness and connection.
Reflecting on his legacy, Dr. Kean hopes to be remembered for his integrity, his dedication to supporting others, and his genuine love for his work. With over 50,000 closed files, and countless lives touched by his generosity, he has indeed left an indelible mark. But for Dr. Kean, the journey is far from over. “I enjoy every day and can never envisage myself retiring. As long as I have my health, I look forward to continuing my work and giving back to the community.”
Dr. Kean’s advice to those considering a career in law is both inspiring and rooted in his own experience: “Do not enter the legal field unless you are excited and motivated for the right reasons. While it is important to make a living from being a member of the legal profession, there is also an obligation to help others who are disadvantaged and who cannot pay for legal services.” His words reflect a life lived with purpose, one where personal success is measured not by financial gain but by the positive impact he has on others.
As Dr. Gerald Kean is honoured at the Men of the Year Awards, his legacy of integrity and generosity will continue to inspire future generations. For anyone needing legal assistance or advice, Dr. Kean and his colleagues at Keans Solicitors remain approachable, committed, and always ready to help.