Family circumstances rarely change on a convenient schedule, and when someone starts looking for a family law solicitor in Portlaw it is usually because a decision needs to be made, not just considered. Richard O’Shea at Family Law Solutions advises clients across this part of south County Waterford, including people who live closer to Kilmacthomas or Waterford City but find Portlaw the easiest place to meet. We can talk through where things stand and what the options are.
Most calls start with something practical rather than legal: can we still live in the same house, what happens to the children’s routine, does one person have to leave before anything is agreed. These are fair questions, and the honest answer is that it depends on the circumstances, including how matters have been handled up to that point and what both people are prepared to discuss.
Other clients are further along and want to know what separation or divorce actually involves, or how child maintenance gets worked out when two households are now paying for the same children. We go through this at a consultation rather than over email, because the detail of each family’s situation changes what applies.
Before any formal step is taken, it helps to have a clear picture of the family’s finances, the living arrangements for any children, and what, if anything, has already been agreed between the parties. We ask clients to bring whatever documents they have, even if the set feels incomplete, and we work from there rather than waiting for a perfect file.
From that starting point we can set out the realistic steps, whether that means separation, a court application, mediation, or simply getting formal advice before any conversation with the other party continues. We do not promise a particular outcome at this stage, and we would be cautious of anyone who did; what we can do is explain the process clearly so you know what to expect next.
Portlaw sits around 15 km west of Waterford City, within County Waterford, and we take instructions from clients here as well as from Kilmacthomas, about 12 km away, and from Ferrybank on the far side of the city. Clients from anywhere in Ireland can contact the firm through our website, and consultations are arranged to suit where you are rather than requiring you to come to a particular branch.
We work from offices in Dublin 7 and in Kilkenny city, but the family law work itself is handled the same way regardless of where a client lives in County Waterford. If Portlaw is where it suits you to meet or to talk things through by phone, that is where we will arrange it.
Not necessarily. We arrange consultations to suit clients across County Waterford and elsewhere, and the practical details, including whether that is by phone or in person, can be agreed when you make contact through our website.
This depends on the circumstances, including whether both parties agree on the main issues such as finances and arrangements for children. We can give a clearer sense of timescale once we understand your situation.
It helps to bring any documents you already have relating to finances, property or existing arrangements for children, but you do not need a complete file. We will tell you what else is needed once we see where things stand.
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. Our team is here to listen, advise, and support you – with no pressure and no jargon. Contact us today to arrange your initial consultation with one of our specialist divorce solicitors in Dublin and Kilkenny.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Your position depends on your circumstances and the current law; please get advice on your own situation. In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.
