Celebrity solicitor Gerald Kean is appealing a finding of professional misconduct against him.

The lawyer from Co Cork is known outside the legal world for his appearances on numerous television shows, including 'Podge and Rodge' and 'Celebrity Bainisteoir'.

Mr Kean said he was shocked after the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal made findings of professional conduct against him last May.

He made it clear then that he would go to the High Court to appeal the findings - that hearing got underway before the President this afternoon.

He is also challenging a recommendation that he be fined €20,000.

The three findings against him relate to complaints made by a former client Christopher O'Neill, from Drumsna in Co Leitrim, following a 2005 District court action against Ballycotton Marine Services.

In essence, the tribunal concluded that Mr Kean allowed a judgment to be obtained against his client by default and then misled his client that he had lodged an appeal.