When Do You Need a Solicitor? 7 Situations That Require Legal Advice

Yuli O’Grady, Solicitor

Law Society of Ireland Regulated · Reviewed March 2025

Reviewed by a qualified Law Society regulated Irish solicitor for accuracy and compliance with Irish law.

Many people put off getting legal advice because they’re not sure if their situation is serious enough — or because they’re worried about the cost. Here are seven situations where getting a solicitor involved early saves time, money and stress.

1. Buying or Selling Property

A solicitor is legally required for all property transactions in Ireland. Don’t try to do this yourself.

2. Starting a Business

Setting up a company without proper legal documents — a shareholders’ agreement, proper contracts, correct constitution — causes expensive disputes later.

3. Signing an Employment Contract

Restrictive covenants, garden leave clauses, and IP assignment terms can significantly affect your career. Have a solicitor review before you sign.

4. Receiving a Redundancy or Settlement Offer

You must have independent legal advice before signing a settlement agreement. A solicitor can also assess whether the offer is fair.

5. Making a Will or EPA

A poorly drafted will can be invalid. An Enduring Power of Attorney must be done correctly while you have capacity — it cannot be done after.

6. Receiving a Legal Letter or Court Summons

Ignoring a legal letter or court summons makes things worse. Get advice immediately — you typically have short deadlines to respond.

7. Any Contract Worth Signing

Commercial leases, supplier agreements, partnership deeds — if it’s a significant commitment, have a solicitor review it first.

Not sure if you need a solicitor? Book a 15-minute consultation call with one of our Irish solicitors for a clear answer at a fixed price.

When Do You Need a Solicitor? 7 Situations That Require Legal Advice