The firm was founded in 1851 by Daniel V. Donegan who practiced under his own name. He was the son of Daniel Donegan the principal of David Donegan & Company, acted as City Sheriff and presided as Lord Mayor of Cork in 1854.

Daniel died before his son Henry PF was qualified so in February 1893, after graduating Henry PF re opened the practice under his own name incorporating his father’s former practice.

The firm operated at Parnell Place and subsequently relocated to 74, South Mall in 1900.

Harry (Henry PF) nicknamed “Alphabetical Donegan” subsequently was joined by his son Henry Edward (Harry) when he qualified in May 1928. The name of the firm was then changed to Henry P.F. Donegan & Son.

Both Harrys were fanatical yachtsmen and on one occasion suspended practice for six to eight weeks to finish a book sailing on the South West Coast of Ireland. Harry Snr was the founding member of The Irish Cruising Club and The Royal Ocean Racing Club (R.O.R.C).

Henry PF died on St. Patrick’s Day 1940 and his son continued in his practice until his untimely death on  5th July 1947 in a boating accident. After Harry’s death his widow arranged for the practice to be carried on by until her son James (Jim) enrolled as a solicitor in November 1954.

Jim carried on as a sole trader and in 1974 was joined in partnership by Patrick J. Twomey.

Jim's son David was enrolled as a solicitor in July 1988 and joined the practice on qualification and was admitted a Partner in 1992.

Jim retired on 15th February 1999. Patrick J. Twomey retired in 2004 and the practice is now carried on by David as Managing Partner.