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 garden leave clause in Ireland allows an employer to require an employee to stay at home during their notice period while remaining employed and paid. This Garden Leave Clause Drafting service provides a professionally drafted, Ireland-specific clause under Irish employment legislation, tailored to your circumstances. It is suitable for SMEs, in-house teams and employers of senior staff who want to protect confidential information and client relationships when someone leaves, without hourly billing. This service is not a substitute for full legal representation in contested or high-value matters; for complex disputes, contact us for a tailored quote.
What’s included
- Document(s) drafted under Irish employment legislation, including the Workplace Relations Commission framework
- One round of review and tailoring against your specific circumstances
- Plain-English guidance notes you can hand to your line manager or HR lead
- Delivered by email once your details are received
- 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
- Employers of senior staff with access to confidential information
- Businesses with key client relationships
- Employers updating senior contracts
- Employers dealing with a resignation to a competitor
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 prepare your document(s) from the details you return, with one round of review and tailoring against your circumstances.
- Your document(s) and plain-English guidance notes are delivered by email.
Frequently asked questions
How much does garden leave clause drafting 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.
Can an employer put an employee on garden leave without a clause?
Without an express contractual right, requiring garden leave may be challenged. A clear clause gives the employer that right.
Is garden leave paid?
Yes. The employee remains employed and is paid during garden leave, but is not required to work.
For more on employment law for Irish employers and employees, see our Employment Law in Ireland hub.
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.
