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 deed of separation in Ireland is a legally binding written agreement between separating spouses or civil partners. It deals with the practical issues, such as the family home, maintenance, custody and access, pensions and the division of assets, without going to court for a judicial separation. This service is for couples who have broadly agreed terms and want them drafted properly by an Irish family-law solicitor, (not currently available).
What’s included
- Initial consultation with a family-law solicitor
- Drafting of the deed of separation based on agreed terms
- One round of revisions
- Execution and signing instructions
- Plain-English summary of what each clause does
Where terms are still being worked out, a full negotiation track (solicitor-to-solicitor negotiation) is available. Quote on request.
Important: each spouse should have independent legal advice. A solicitor would act for one party only; the other party should instruct their own solicitor.
Who this is for
- Spouses or civil partners who have decided to separate and have agreed the main terms
- Couples who want a private agreement rather than a public court process
- Separating parents who want arrangements for children and maintenance set out in writing
- People who expect to apply for a divorce later and want their terms recorded now
How it works
- Contact a solicitor of your choice.
- Complete a short questionnaire setting out the terms you have agreed.
- 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.
- Your draft deed, plain-English summary and signing instructions are delivered by email, with one round of revisions included.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a deed of separation cost in Ireland?
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.
Is a deed of separation legally binding in Ireland?
Yes. Once signed by both parties, each having had independent legal advice, it is a binding contract that can be enforced in the Irish courts. Both spouses must agree to and sign it.
Can I get divorced later if I have a deed of separation?
Yes. A deed of separation does not stop either spouse applying for a divorce later. To get a divorce in Ireland, spouses must generally have lived apart for at least two of the previous three years, and the terms in a deed are often used as a starting point. If your spouse will not engage at all, a deed is not the right route and judicial separation or divorce may need to be considered.
For more on separation, divorce and related topics, see our family law guides and services.
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.