To initiate a claim against a parent’s estate, one must consider the following legal principles and statutory provisions: 1. Eligibility to Claim: There is no prescribed age limit for lodging a claim against a parent’s estate. Typically, claimants are adults who may already have children of their own. 2.Basis for Claims: Claims may generally be categorised under two principal grounds: – The deceased parent failed to provide adequately during the claimant’s upbringing. – The claimant demonstrates a present-day financial necessity. 3. Judicial Precedents: Numerous cases have been adjudicated bas ..read more

The Power of a Caveat Contemplating a challenge to a Will? One of your first steps should be considering a caveat. This legal tool acts as a brake, ensuring that executors can’t proceed with distributing the estate as per the Will if there’s a dispute. When you file a caveat (for a small fee) at the Probate Office or a District Registry, it prevents them from issuing a Grant of Probate. This is a crucial document that confirms the executors’ authority to manage the deceased’s affairs. A caveat effectively puts this process on hold for six months, giving you time to strengthen your case. This p ..read more

Instead of shopping for a sparkly engagement ring, today many couples in a committed relationship are in the market for something equally shiny and precious: the keys to a newly purchased home. One of the most compelling advantages is the ability to deduct mortgage interests from income taxed and the ability to build equity over time. Add in rising rental costs in some areas, and buying now rather than delaying homeownership makes sense for many unmarried couples. While purchasing a house before marriage may make sense for many, it’s also one of the biggest, most complicated financial decision ..read more

When someone in Ireland can’t make decisions for themselves due to a condition like dementia, their belongings and property generally can’t be accessed or used by others unless these are owned jointly or if a chosen person holds a Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) to manage them. An EPA not only covers financial matters but also empowers the chosen Attorney to make decisions regarding the personal care of the individual (referred to as the Donor) when they’re unable to do so themselves. These decisions can range from determining the Donor’s living arrangements to who they interact with and the ..read more

Building a dream home in Ireland, with its rolling green landscapes and unique heritage, is quite the adventure. Here’s how to navigate the construction path without getting lost in the legal underbrush or digital wilderness: 1. Secure Planning Permission: Before you lay the first stone, ensure you’ve got planning permission from the local council. Ireland’s planning laws can be as intricate as a Celtic knot, so understanding the nuances is key to a smooth start. 2. Find the Right Plot: Location, location, location – the mantra isn’t just for buyers. Whether you’re looking for a serene country ..read more

In 2024, navigating the waters of property transactions in Ireland requires the careful picking of a conveyancing solicitor. Here’s your compass for making a choice that’ll keep you in the right lane: 1. Mastery of Property Law: – Opt for a solicitor steeped in property law and conveyancing lore. Their seasoned grip on these realms means your complex property quests are in capable hands. 2. Street Cred and Shout-outs: – Scour your squad or work pals who’ve recently dipped their toes in property deals for recommendations. – Scrolling through online praises and client shout-outs is a solid strat ..read more

The latest scoop from the Medical Protection Society throws the spotlight on the heavy toll Ireland’s drawn-out legal tangle for clinical negligence claims is taking. With cases dragging on for an average of 1,462 days, it’s not just the bank balances feeling the pinch; it’s a real nail-biter for both doctors and patients involved. The report lays bare the emotional rollercoaster for healthcare professionals, with a whopping 88% losing sleep over the snail-paced proceedings and 91% fretting over their mental health. Some have even hung up their stethoscopes for good. Ireland’s legal labyrinth ..read more

Navigating the maze of customs charges can be a real headache for online shoppers in Ireland, and elsewhere for that matter. These charges can turn shopping into a more complicated affair, but let’s demystify it together. When you buy something online from a country outside the EU (which now sadly includes the UK after Brexit), there are a few extra charges you might bump into, such as customs duty, VAT on imports, and sometimes even an excise duty. Here’s the lowdown: 1. Customs Duty: This kicks in for goods worth more than €150. The rate varies depending on what you’re buying, kind of like a ..read more

In 2024, navigating property transactions in Ireland necessitates careful selection of a conveyancing solicitor. Here’s a guide to making an informed choice: 1. Expertise in Property Law: – Choose a solicitor with extensive experience in property law and conveyancing. – Their expertise in these areas ensures adept handling of complex property transactions. 2. Reputation and Recommendations: – Gather endorsements from your network, such as friends or colleagues, who have recently engaged in property dealings. – Online reviews and client testimonials are also valuable for assessing a solicitor’s ..read more

What is a pre-nuptial agreement? A pre-nuptial agreement, commonly known as a prenup, is a legal contract entered into by a couple before marriage. In Ireland, prenuptial agreements are not expressly legislated for but are recognised under Irish law. While they are not binding in the strictest sense, recent legal developments suggest that Irish courts are increasingly considering and giving weight to these agreements, especially if they are fair, reasonable, and entered into voluntarily by both parties. What can be included in a pre-nuptial agreement? A pre-nuptial agreement can cover a range ..read more