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Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
In Ireland, child visitation is governed by modern family law frameworks that focus on the best interests of the child. The term "visitation" is now typically expressed as child arrangements or parenting time under the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 (CFRA). This framework emphasizes parental responsibility and flexible arrangements that suit the child’s welfare and development.
For families in Dungarvan, the key considerations are where the child lives, how they spend time with each parent, and how decisions about education, health and welfare are made. Courts prefer arrangements that keep contact stable and predictable, while allowing for changes when a child’s needs or family circumstances evolve.
Local processes are influenced by the wider Waterford and South East regional courts and mediation services. Parents in Dungarvan should consider early mediation and legal advice to outline a practical plan that protects the child’s interests from the outset.
Best interests of the child are the paramount consideration in all decisions about child arrangements under the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015.
For more information on the CFRA 2015 and related procedures, see official government resources and the Irish Statute Book.
CFRA 2015 on the Irish Statute Book
These are concrete scenarios where a solicitor or solicitor-with-family-law specialisation can help residents of Dungarvan. Each example reflects common real-world issues faced by families in the South East region.
The main framework for child arrangements in Ireland is the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 (CFRA). This act replaced many terms like custody and access with modern child arrangements orders and clarified parental responsibility, focusing on the child's welfare.
The CFRA 2015 introduced a formal structure for parental responsibility, contact, residence, and the possibility of mediation before or during court proceedings. It emphasizes early dispute resolution and ongoing review of orders as children grow and family circumstances change.
The other foundational pieces include the Family Law Act 1996, which was amended to align with CFRA 2015 provisions, and the Domestic Violence Act 1996 (as amended), which can affect parenting orders where safety is a concern. These acts influence how courts assess risk, enforce orders, and protect vulnerable family members.
Key sources you may consult for the exact statutory language and commencement details include the Irish Statute Book and official government pages. The CFRA 2015 sets the modern baseline for child arrangements in Dungarvan and across Ireland.
Primary statute: Irish Statute Book - Children and Family Relationships Act 2015
Older framework and amendments: Irish Statute Book - Family Law Act 1996 (as amended)
Domestic violence protections: Irish Statute Book - Domestic Violence Act 1996
The South East region, including Waterford and Dungarvan, encourages mediation as a first step before court proceedings. See the Courts Service and Tusla guidance for local pathways to resolution.
A child arrangements order sets where a child lives and how they spend time with each parent. It replaces older terms like custody and access and focuses on the child’s welfare. The order can cover holidays, schooling decisions and regular contact schedules.
Begin by consulting a family law solicitor for a case assessment. You may request mediation first, and if needed, file a formal application with the appropriate court in Waterford or the South East Circuit.
Legal aid is available to eligible applicants based on income and means testing. A solicitor can help you apply to the Legal Aid Board for coverage of legal costs at key stages of the case.
Simple mediation-based resolutions may take a few weeks to months. Court-based hearings can span several months to a year depending on complexity and backlog.
Courts encourage mediation under CFRA 2015 to reach amicable agreements. A mediator can help craft a plan even if court proceedings are later necessary.
Costs vary by case, location, and lawyer. Expect initial consultations to range from a few hundred euros to more, with ongoing work billed by time or fixed-fee arrangements where possible.
Yes, through a court order that specifies parenting time and travel arrangements. The court considers the child’s best interests and practical feasibility for travel.
Tusla handles child welfare concerns and can assist with safety assessments. They may propose support services and co-operation arrangements during disputes.
Guardianship refers to legal rights over a child’s welfare, while parental responsibility covers day-to-day decisions. CFRA 2015 clarifies and standardizes these concepts.
You can apply for enforcement through the courts if the other parent fails to comply. The court can impose remedies such as supervision or variations to the order.
Relocation can trigger a modification of orders to reflect new travel and contact arrangements. The court re-evaluates the child’s best interests in light of change.
A specialist with experience in CFRA matters helps navigate complex issues such as parental responsibility, mediation, and enforcement. In Dungarvan, a local solicitor with family law expertise can provide tailored guidance.
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Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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