Separation Agreement Review (Mediated)

If you and your spouse or partner have used mediation to reach a separation agreement, you should have the agreement reviewed by a solicitor before signing. A mediated agreement is not legally binding until it has been properly executed — and there may be issues the mediator did not address.

What We Review

Our review of a mediated separation agreement covers: property division and transfer of the family home, financial provisions including maintenance and lump sums, pension arrangements and pension adjustment orders, custody and access arrangements for children, financial provision for children, tax implications of any transfers or payments, and whether the agreement adequately protects your rights.

What We Advise On

We specifically advise on: whether the financial terms are fair given your circumstances, any assets or entitlements that appear to be missing from the agreement, the legal right share implications (a spouse’s right to a minimum share of the estate on death), whether pension adjustment orders are needed, and the tax consequences of any property transfers.

This Is Not the Full Separation Pack

This service covers review and advice on an existing mediated agreement. If you need a separation agreement drafted from scratch, our Separation Agreement / Divorce Support Pack is the appropriate service.

What Our Clients Say

“Had a mediated agreement that seemed fine but the solicitor identified a significant pension issue that wasn’t addressed. Saved me from signing something that would have been very costly.”

“Professional, discreet and very helpful at what was a difficult time. The review gave me confidence that I understood what I was agreeing to.”

“The solicitor reviewed our mediated agreement and flagged several points for clarification before I signed. Very glad I got independent advice.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a solicitor to review a mediated separation agreement?

Yes — strongly recommended. A mediator is a neutral facilitator, not your legal adviser. They cannot advise you on whether the terms are fair to you personally. Independent legal advice from your own solicitor ensures you understand what you are signing and that your rights are protected.

Is a mediated separation agreement legally binding in Ireland?

A separation agreement is a legally binding contract once properly executed by both parties. It does not require court approval to be binding, but can be made a rule of court if either party wishes to enforce it. A solicitor ensures it is correctly executed.

What is not covered in a mediated separation agreement?

Mediators often focus on the key practical issues. Matters frequently overlooked include: formal pension adjustment orders (which require specific legal mechanisms), succession rights (a separated spouse retains certain succession rights unless these are expressly released), and tax implications of property transfers.