Question 1

What is Saor Law?

Accepted Answer

Saor Law is an Irish non-profit that provides free, pro bono legal advice to people going through divorce, separation, and relationship breakdown in Ireland. Our volunteer solicitors and barristers offer confidential support at no cost.

Question 2

Is the service really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 100%. Saor Law is a non-profit organisation. Our legal advisors are qualified solicitors and barristers who volunteer their time. There is no charge for our advice service.

Question 3

Who are the solicitors and barristers?

Accepted Answer

Our legal advisors are qualified Irish solicitors and barristers who have volunteered to provide pro bono advice through Saor Law. They have expertise in family law and are regulated by their respective professional bodies.

Question 4

Do you cover all of Ireland?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our service is available to anyone in Ireland. Consultations are conducted by phone or video call, so your location doesn't matter.

Question 5

Is the advice confidential?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. All consultations with our solicitors and barristers are completely confidential. We take your privacy very seriously.

Question 6

What are the requirements for divorce in Ireland?

Accepted Answer

You must have lived apart from your spouse for at least two out of the previous three years, there must be no prospect of reconciliation, and proper provision must be made for both spouses and any children.

Question 7

How long does a divorce take?

Accepted Answer

An uncontested divorce typically takes 6 to 12 months. Contested divorces can take considerably longer depending on the complexity of the issues involved.

Question 8

Do I need my spouse's agreement to get divorced?

Accepted Answer

No. Either spouse can apply for divorce without the other's consent. However, an uncontested divorce is generally quicker and less expensive.

Question 9

Can I get divorced if we still live in the same house?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The courts recognise that financial circumstances may require couples to continue living under the same roof while leading separate lives.

Question 10

What about the children?

Accepted Answer

The court's primary concern is the welfare of the children. It will make orders regarding custody, access, and maintenance that serve the children's best interests.

Question 11

What is a judicial separation?

Accepted Answer

A judicial separation is a court order that removes the obligation to cohabit. Unlike divorce, it does not end the marriage. You remain married but live apart under legally binding terms.

Question 12

When would I choose separation over divorce?

Accepted Answer

You might choose separation if you don't yet meet the requirements for divorce, have religious or personal reasons for not divorcing, or want to keep certain benefits of marriage such as succession rights.

Question 13

Can I get maintenance through a separation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The court can order maintenance for both a spouse and children as part of a judicial separation decree.

Question 14

What are the grounds for judicial separation?

Accepted Answer

Grounds include adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion for one year, living apart for one year with consent, living apart for three years, or no normal marital relationship for one year.

Question 15

Can I later apply for divorce after a judicial separation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many people obtain a judicial separation first and then apply for divorce once they meet the living apart requirements.

Question 16

Do I have any rights if we're not married?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you qualify as a 'cohabitant' under the 2010 Act (lived together 5+ years, or 2+ years with children), you may have rights to maintenance, property adjustment, and pension adjustment.

Question 17

What is a cohabitation agreement?

Accepted Answer

A cohabitation agreement is a written contract between partners setting out how property, finances, and other matters will be handled if the relationship ends. It is strongly recommended for unmarried couples.

Question 18

Does Ireland recognise common law marriage?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no concept of common law marriage in Ireland. However, the Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010 provides certain protections for qualifying cohabitants.

Question 19

Can I claim from my partner's estate if they die?

Accepted Answer

If you are a qualifying cohabitant and your partner dies without making provision for you in their will, you may be able to apply to the court for provision from their estate.

Question 20

What happens to our shared property if we split up?

Accepted Answer

This depends on how the property is legally owned. If you are a qualifying cohabitant, you may be able to apply for property adjustment orders through the courts.

Question 21

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can book a free appointment through our website by clicking 'Book Free Call' or by contacting us directly. We'll arrange a convenient time for your consultation.

Question 22

What happens during the consultation?

Accepted Answer

You'll speak with a qualified solicitor or barrister who will listen to your situation, explain your legal options, and advise on the next steps. The consultation is confidential and without obligation.

Question 23

How long is the consultation?

Accepted Answer

Initial consultations typically last 30 to 45 minutes. This gives enough time to understand your situation and provide meaningful advice.

Question 24

What should I bring to the consultation?

Accepted Answer

Have any relevant documents ready, such as marriage certificates, court orders, correspondence from solicitors, financial documents, and any notes about your situation.

Question 25

What happens after the consultation?

Accepted Answer

Our solicitor will provide advice and, if appropriate, refer you to other services or a solicitor who can take your case further. There is no obligation to take any action.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Saor Law

Divorce

Separation

Cohabitation

The Process

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