Decision-Making Representation Application

A decision-making representation application in Ireland asks the Circuit Court to appoint a decision-making representative for a person who can no longer make certain decisions even with support, under the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. A solicitor would advise on whether an order is appropriate, prepares the application and supporting documents, addresses the capacity evidence and explain a representative’s role and reporting duties to the Decision Support Service.Work of this kind is carried out by a solicitor regulated by the Law Society of Ireland. We are not a solicitor’s practice and do not provide it — to instruct a solicitor, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.

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

• Advice on whether a representation order is appropriate
• Preparation of the court application and supporting documents
• Addressing the capacity evidence required
• Guidance on the representative’s role and reporting duties
• 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

• Family members of a person who lacks capacity
• Carers needing legal authority
• Families of people formerly in wardship
• People needing authority over property or welfare decisions

How it works

1. 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.
2. Complete a short questionnaire about your circumstances.
3. A solicitor would then prepare the application and supporting documents.
4. The completed work is delivered to you by email, with plain-English notes on what to do next.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a decision-making representation application cost?

This page is a free guide — nothing on it is for sale. Solicitors set their own fees for this work and must give you a written costs estimate (a section 150 letter) before starting. Get quotes through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.

Which court hears these applications?

Generally the Circuit Court.

Does a representative report to anyone?

Yes. Representatives have reporting duties to the Decision Support Service.

For more on capacity and planning ahead, see our Capacity & Decision Support 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.