John Howley (lawyer)

Sir John Bourke Howley (1789-1866) was an Irish barrister and Law Officer who held office as Serjeant-at-law (Ireland) for many years. Despite his obvious desire to be promoted to the Bench, he never became a judge.

He was born at Rich Hill, County Limerick, the second son of John Howley and Anna Bourke, daughter of William Bourke of Pallas, County Tipperary. The Howleys were Roman Catholic merchants from Limerick city (according to family tradition they moved there from Connacht) who prospered in business. John's father bought Rich Hill in the early 19th century.