When Do You Need a Solicitor? 7 Situations That Require Legal Advice
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? Read our guide to a 15-minute consultation call with a solicitor of your choice with an Irish solicitor of your choice for a clear answer at a set price.
Related Services and Reading
If you found this article helpful, you may also be interested in:
- solicitor costs in Ireland
- read our consultation guides today
- our legal services
- Making a Will in Ireland: What You Need to Know
Our guides and templates are general information and self-complete documents; they are not legal advice and are not reviewed by a solicitor. View our pricing or read our guide to a consultation with a solicitor of your choice.
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