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Navigating separation and divorce is emotionally charged and legally complex, requiring careful consideration of finances, children’s needs, and your own well-being throughout the process. Family law solicitor Hilary O’Connor offers clear guidance on managing this challenging life transition.

• Mediation should be the initial step in separation proceedings as it is free and enables couples to resolve issues collaboratively.
• Living “separate and apart” for one year qualifies for separation in Ireland, while divorce requires two years out of the last three.
• Emotions run high during separation – being “too mad and too sad” can impair decision-making and needlessly prolong the process.
• The family home often becomes a central issue, but financial realities mean that one household budget must now support two homes.
• Pensions are just as important as property in settlement discussions, yet are frequently overlooked.
• Access to children is the child’s right to see both parents, not a “gift” the primary carer can withhold.
• The legal process includes submitting affidavits of means and welfare, with full financial disclosure required for settlements.
• Qualified cohabitants (those living together for 2+ years with children or 5+ years without) have similar, though not identical, rights to married couples.
• Maintenance for children continues until the age of 18 (or 23 if in full-time education), while spousal maintenance may be lifelong.
• Self-care is essential – seek counselling, surround yourself with supportive people, and “stock up on vitamins” as your immune system will be affected.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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