In a legal proceeding within the King’s Bench Division, presided over by Mr Justice Boyd, a case was brought forward involving the parties Wells versus Murray and another. Mr Patrick Kelly, acting under the instruction of Mr Patrick T. Liston, represented the defendants, Patrick Murray and Nora Murray, who reside in County Limerick. The application made on their behalf sought an order to set aside a judgment that had been obtained by the plaintiff, Charles Wells. Wells was described as a money-lender conducting business in Leicester, England. The judgment, totaling £70 plus costs, was awarded in favor of the plaintiff for an outstanding balance related to a loan. Counsel for the defendants argued that the judgment had been secured in bad faith and contended that the interest rates applied to the lent funds were usurious, reaching as high as 45 1/4 percent. On the other side, Mr Robert Doyle, representing the plaintiff, asserted that the judgment had been obtained entirely in good faith and with due diligence. Following deliberation, Mr Justice Boyd declined the application.
In another legal matter, Mr Mooney, acting under the instruction of Mr P. M. Gallagher, made an application on behalf of the plaintiff in the case of Kelly versus Stewart. This action was initiated by Reverend Canon Kelly, serving as the executor of Peter Kelly, who had since passed away. The lawsuit was filed against Sir Harry Stewart, the former High Sheriff of County Donegal. The purpose of this application was to request the discovery of specific documents. The underlying action aimed to secure damages for an alleged illegal seizure. In an affidavit submitted to the court, the plaintiff asserted that access to certain documents would be essential for adequate preparation before the trial. Notably, the defendant had already obtained discovery in the case. Mr Justice Boyd, following due consideration, granted the application.
These legal proceedings in Limerick shed light on the diverse array of cases and matters that can come before the courts, ranging from financial disputes to actions involving public officials, highlighting the role of the legal system in addressing various issues within the community.
Belfast News-Letter – Thursday 12 July 1906
