Family law
Family Law Solicitors in Waterford
Practical, sensitive advice through separation, divorce and family disputes.
The breakdown of any relationship is extremely difficult, and we are experienced in helping families through it. We support and encourage early settlement where possible, and we’ll guide you at every stage.
1995
Established in Waterford
Confidential
Every conversation
Settlement
Encouraged where possible
How it usually works
Step 1
First meeting
We listen to what’s happening, explain your options in plain English, and give you a written notice of our likely costs.
Step 2
Negotiation or mediation
We work towards agreement on the children, the family home, finances and maintenance. Mediation can also help, and a free family mediation service is available through the Legal Aid Board.
Step 3
Agreement or court
If you reach agreement, we put it in writing, for example as a separation agreement. If not, we can apply to court for the orders you need and represent you throughout.
Step 4
Final orders
Once orders are made or an agreement is signed, we explain what it means for you and what happens next.
Talk to us in confidence
Tell us briefly about your situation and we’ll come back to you. Everything you tell us is confidential.
Matters we deal with
01
Separation agreements
Agreeing terms on the children, property, finances and maintenance without going to court.
02
Judicial separation
Court orders where a couple cannot reach agreement, or are not yet eligible to divorce.
03
Divorce
Applications for divorce, including agreed (consent) divorces and contested cases.
04
Guardianship, custody and access
Arrangements for children, always based on what is best for the child.
05
Maintenance
Applications for, or responding to, maintenance for a spouse, partner or children.
06
Family home and property
Dealing with the family home, pensions and other assets when a relationship ends.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to go to court?
Not always. Many separations are settled by agreement, through negotiation or mediation, and we encourage early settlement where possible. If court is needed, we’ll be with you throughout.
How long do we need to be separated before getting a divorce?
In Ireland, you must have lived apart for at least two of the previous three years before applying for a divorce.
Can we be living apart if we are still in the same house?
In some cases, yes. Couples can sometimes be treated as living apart while under the same roof, depending on how they live. We can go through your circumstances with you.
What happens with the children?
Decisions about guardianship, custody and access are based on what is best for the child. Where parents can agree arrangements, the court will usually take that into account.
Is our first conversation confidential?
Yes. Everything you tell us is confidential.
How much will it cost?
Before we start, we’ll give you a written estimate of our fees and any outlays, as solicitors are required to do.
Get in touch
Hegarty & Co. Solicitors
4 St Andrews Tce, Newtown, Waterford X91 YC43
Mon–Thu 9:00–5:30 · Fri 9:00–5:00
Sat by appointment · Closed 1:00–2:00 for lunch
Early morning and late evening appointments and home visits available.
Tel: 051 841 577
Email: info@hegartysolicitors.com
This page contains general information only and is not legal advice. Every case depends on its own facts.