Clarity, compassion, and expert guidance through life’s legal challenges.
At Maria O’Donovan & Co, we support individuals and families navigating life’s major transitions — from separation and parenting arrangements to workplace or estate matters. Our clients are people who want to move forward with clarity and confidence, guided by a team who understands both the legal and emotional realities of change.
We combine expert legal advice with empathy, helping you find practical, lasting solutions that protect your future and your peace of mind.
Once you have decided to separate (or if that decision has been made for you) it is really important to formalise the arrangements between you and your spouse.
You can make the agreements between you and record them in a way that suits you both.
You can attend with a mediator, who is an independent third party who will help you both to reach an agreement.
You can both attend with your own solicitors, who can help you to reach an agreement.
If an agreement cannot be reached, or if circumstances require it, you can issue proceedings to ask the court to make an Order for either separation or divorce. In all cases, an agreement or court order will deal with all of the necessary issues between you including where relevant property, finances, any issues regarding children, pensions and any other matters.
If you are not married to your partner but have been living together for the relevant period (2 years if you have children together, 5 years otherwise) and you separate, you may have accrued certain rights which require an agreement or court order.
Many of the same issues which are dealt with in separation and divorce are covered by the legislation governing qualified cohabitants. There are strict time limits in place for issuing proceedings under this legislation and it is important to obtain independent legal advice as soon as possible after separating to ensure that you are fully protected.
Either as part of separation, divorce or cohabitation proceedings, or sometimes as stand-alone applications, you may be entitled to apply to court for orders to provide you or your children with financial support. This can include spousal maintenance, child maintenance, lump sum orders or pension adjustment orders to make ‘proper provision’ as provided for in legislation.
Prenuptial agreements, unlike cohabitation agreements, are not formally recognised in Irish law. This means that they are not binding on a court should the parties to that agreement later separate. This doesn’t mean that you can’t enter into such an agreement, just that there is no guarantee that a court will abide by its terms. This may change in the future if the government follow the recommendations of a 2017 report into this issue.
Cohabitation agreements are specifically provided for in legislation. Here, a couple who are, or are considering, living together can draw up an agreement which provides for what is to happen in the event that they separate in the future. These agreements can be particularly important if, for example, one party is contributing more than the other to the purchase or renovation of a property.
Buying or selling a property is a major life decision, and we’re here to make the legal process as smooth and stress free as possible. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, selling a family property or investing, we provide clear, practical advice and handle all legal aspects with care and efficiency.
Our team ensures your interests are protected at every stage, from contract review to final closing. With a focus on communication and attention to detail, we help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and managing their estate can feel overwhelming. We offer clear, compassionate guidance through the probate process, helping you handle legal responsibilities with confidence and care.
Whether you’re an executor or family member, we ensure that wills are properly administered, assets are distributed fairly and all legal obligations are met. Our goal is to ease the burden during a difficult time, providing practical support and respectful service every step of the way.
Workplace issues can be very stressful and confusing, whether you’re an employee facing unfair treatment or an employer managing complex HR issues. We offer clear, practical advice on all aspects of employment law including contracts, dismissals, redundancy, discrimination and workplace disputes. Our approach is solution-focused and grounded in fairness, helping you understand your rights and responsibilities. We’re here to support you with professionalism and care offering guidance, representation and resolution.
When you’re facing change, you deserve a legal team that sees the person behind the problem. At Maria O’Donovan & Co, we combine expert legal advice with genuine understanding. Our focus is on practical, lasting solutions that bring clarity and peace of mind — not unnecessary conflict.
Making the right decisions during separation or family change can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. These practical tools and resources are designed to give you clarity, confidence, and support at every stage of the process. Whether you’re exploring your options, learning how to communicate more effectively, or ready to take the next legal step, you’ll find the right place to start below.
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