F.A.Q.

How much does a Divorce cost in Ireland?

Traditionally, Divorces in Ireland are expensive. An average contested Divorce can cost anywhere between €10k-€20k per spouse. Divorce.ie was established to provide its clients with a fixed framework for one low fee, which alleviates time delay and potential anxiety over uncertain legal fees. Our pricing is considerably lower than the standard rate. To access our program pricing, simply register here.

How long does a Divorce take in Ireland?

If you meet the requirements for a Divorce in Ireland, the time to complete a Divorce will depend on the co-operation of each spouse. If spouses are unable to work together and negotiate an agreement for a Divorce, the time to set a Court date can take years. Our program encourages amicable spousal co-operation in agreeing all aspects of the Divorce, which extensively decreases the cost and more importantly the time in which you obtain a Court date for the granting of a Decree of Divorce. With the Divorce.ie program, this Court date can be set in as little as 6 months.

What are the requirements for a Divorce?

A Court may grant a Decree of Divorce if the following conditions are met:

  • Both spouses have lived apart for a period of at least 2 years during the previous 3;
  • There is no reasonable possibility of reconciliation;
  • That proper provision has been made for each spouse and any dependant children.

What does ‘living apart’ mean?

The Courts have adapted a very broad meaning of the term ‘living apart’. Spouses who live under the same roof but live completely separate lives can be defined as living apart.

How can I safeguard my children during a Divorce?

Divorce should take into account the best interests of the children involved, however it is an unfortunate fact that the conflict associated with litigation very often adversely affects the children. The Divorce.ie Program utilises Mediators to ensure the needs of both children and spouses are considered and agreements and solutions are reached that are beneficial to all.

Do I have to go to Court to get a Divorce?

Yes. A Court application will be necessary to obtain a Decree of Divorce from a Judge. When all matters are agreed by both parties at Mediation, and the Judge is satisfied that the agreemnt is fair, they will issue the Decree and each party is free to remarry.

What are my rights regarding access to my children?

The rules governing custody and visitation are not set in stone and can be negotiated between the spouses in Mediation. Essentially the Court will assess the validity of the Agreement set out by the spouses, and what they believe is best for the children concerned. The Court will take into account any dependent childrens well being and balance this with the rights of both parents. If parents can agree on mutually satisfactory access and visitation arrangements, this is better for all concerned. Marriages break up but the spouses remain parents for life. Conflict can cause the most damage to children, so a workable civil relationship after Divorce is by far the best outcome for children.

What is the difference between a Divorce and a legal separation?

A Legal Separation is an Agreement which sets out the terms in which spouses will live separate lives going forward, however they remain married. Once Divorced, you are no longer married and are free to remarry.

Is there a way to get Divorced without costly litigation?

Yes, Mediation is a practical means of getting a Divorce without the cost and conflict associated with stressful Court appearances and ongoing litigation. The Mediation process is focussed on the best possible resolution to a difficult situation for both spouses and children.

How are assets divided in a Divorce?

The Divorce.ie program includes Mediation sessions, where both parties outline what they believe is fair and then usually negotiate and compromise with the assistance of the Mediator until both parties are satisfied that the result they have reached is fair. The Mediated Agreement can only be achieved when both parties agree on a solution. The Mediator will facilitate discussion and agreement in relation to the distribution of assets post Divorce.

As a father, what are my rights in a Divorce?

As a married father you are automatically guardian of your children and this will entitle you to have an input into matters surrounding your child's health, education, religion and where he or she may live. Despite this, there are no hard and fast set of rules which will determine when and for how long you have access to your children. With the Divorce.ie program, the terms of this arrangement can be determined by the parties at Mediation.

How are child support payments handled in a Divorce?

The level of child support payble will be determined by the spouses at Mediation. These agreed guidelines will be reached with the help of a qualified and experienced Mediator.

Am I entitled to get full custody of my children?

No, the best interests of the children will be considered during Mediation, where a mutually satisfactory agreement can be reached between spouses. If an agreement can not be reached and you choose to go to Court, a Judge will decide based on the particular circumstances and the needs of the children.

Are family law cases held in public?

No, family law cases are held in private and members of the public are not allowed into the Court room when the cases are in session.

How does Divorce affect my inheritance?

All matters, including inheritance and succession rights are agreed at Mediation with the help of a qualified Mediator.

Does Mediation ensure a quicker settlement than a Court action or going to solicitors?

Yes, when agreement is achieved during Mediation, it is quicker, cheaper and less stressful than litigation.

After I am Divorced, can I remarry?

Yes.