Guide only — this matter needs a solicitor. Under Irish law this work must be carried out by a solicitor, so it is not sold on this site. The information below explains what is involved so you can brief a solicitor with confidence.
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A bankruptcy advice consultation in Ireland explains how bankruptcy works and whether it is the right step for you. Bankruptcy is a formal High Court process that deals with debts you cannot repay, normally lasting one year, after which qualifying debts are discharged. We explain the application process, the role of the Official Assignee, what happens to your home, assets and income, the restrictions, and how bankruptcy compares with insolvency arrangements.
The price shown is the full professional fee for the service as described, and any third-party or State fees are listed separately where they apply. If your matter needs more than this service covers, a solicitor would explain the options before any further work is done.
What’s included
- Explanation of the High Court application process
- The role of the Official Assignee
- What happens to your home, assets and income
- Duration and restrictions
- Comparison with personal insolvency arrangements
- Self-complete template with guidance notes — you fill it in yourself
- Documents tailored to Irish law and your circumstances, delivered by email
- A written summary of the key points and anything you need to do afterwards
Who this is for
- People considering bankruptcy
- People with debts they cannot repay
- Business owners with personal guarantees
- People comparing insolvency options
How it works
- Find a solicitor through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory and send them the basic details and any existing documents or correspondence.
- Complete a short questionnaire about your circumstances.
- A solicitor would then explain bankruptcy and the alternatives for your situation.
- The completed work is delivered to you by email, with plain-English notes on what to do next.
Frequently asked questions
How much does bankruptcy advice cost in Ireland?
Fees for work of this kind are typically set on application: a solicitor would typically confirm the fee once the matter has been reviewed and before any work begins. Any third-party or State fees are listed separately where they apply. You request an assessment, and costs are confirmed in writing before any work begins.
How long does bankruptcy last in Ireland?
Bankruptcy normally lasts one year, although payment obligations can continue for longer in some cases.
What happens to my home in bankruptcy?
The family home vests in the Official Assignee, who deals with it according to the law. The consultation explains what this means for you.
For more on debt and insolvency, see our Debt & Insolvency in Ireland guide.
If you would like to be told when solicitor services are available again on this site, you can join our no-fee waiting list. To instruct a solicitor now, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.