Family solicitors in Dublin

You must have lived apart for at least two of the previous three years when proceedings start, there must be no reasonable prospect of reconciliation, and proper provision must exist for each spouse and any children. Judicial separation can be sought after one year living apart, or on other grounds.

Maintenance, guardianship, access and safety or barring orders usually start in the District Court — for Dublin, that's Dolphin House. Divorce and judicial separation are heard by the Circuit Court. Family cases are held in private. Specialist family court divisions are due to start in phases from January 2027.

Civil legal aid is provided by the Legal Aid Board through its law centres, and family law makes up most of its work. It's means-tested and you usually pay a contribution. The Legal Aid Board's Family Mediation Service is free.

To practise in Ireland a solicitor must be on the Roll of Solicitors kept by the Law Society of Ireland and hold a current practising certificate. You can search any solicitor or firm on the Law Society's Find a Solicitor register. Complaints about a solicitor's services or conduct go to the Legal Services Regulatory Authority (LSRA). Lawvoo lists firms from the details they publish themselves — check the register before you instruct a firm.