Dissolution of Civil Partnership

Statistics up to June 2014 indicate that almost 1500 couples in Ireland have entered into civil partnership. Unfortunately, some of these relationships will irretrievably break down and if this is the case either party can apply to Court for a decree of dissolution of their civil partnership. Upon granting the decree of dissolution the Court may also make orders in relation to the payment of maintenance and lump sums, it may order the transfer of property, extinguish succession rights and make pension adjustment orders.

Before a Court can grant a decree of dissolution the parties must have been living apart from one another for a period amounting to two out of the previous three years before the application is made. Likewise proper arrangements must have already been made or will be made for the civil partners before the Court will grant the decree.

Separation Agreement

As Civil Partners must wait at least two years before making an application for Dissolution it is a sensible option to enter into a Separation Agreement pending Dissolution. The terms of any such agreement may be reached by the parties themselves, or with the assistance of a mediator or it may be negotiated through the parties’ respective solicitors. A separation agreement will cover all legal issues including: custody and access arrangements for any dependent children, ownership and occupation of the family/shared home, ownership of any other property, maintenance, pensions and succession rights.

If you are a Civil Partner contemplating either separation or dissolution please contact our family law specialist unit for advice and insight into the legal steps involved in either process. We will be happy to provide you with cost effective, competent and experienced legal representation.