Best Corporate & Commercial Lawyers in Ireland

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McGinley Solicitors
Dublin, Ireland

Founded in 1988
50 people in their team
Irish
English
About McGinley Solicitors LLPMcGinley Solicitors LLP are a legal firm with offices in both Donegal (Letterkenny and Milford) and Dublin. Established in 1988, McGinley Solicitors LLP has become recognized as a leading firm within the area of personal injury law.Our team of highly experienced...

Founded in 2004
50 people in their team
Irish
English
Katherina White Solicitors is a full legal service law firm based in the heart of Cork City.  We provide a full range of legal services for commercial and private individuals. The firm prides itself on having a practical, common-sense approach to problem-solving while achieving positive...

English
Established in 1890, Coakley Moloney Solicitors is one of Cork's longest-standing law firms, offering over 135 years of legal expertise. The firm provides a comprehensive range of services, including corporate and commercial law, employment law, family law, licensing, litigation and alternative...
Kennedy Fitzgerald
Galway, Ireland

Founded in 1979
English
Established in 1979, Kennedy Fitzgerald LLP is a distinguished law firm located in the heart of Galway City. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including medical negligence, personal injury litigation, general and commercial litigation, property law, family law, employment...
VP Shields, Solicitors
Loughrea, Ireland

English
VP Shields, Solicitors, is a distinguished law firm renowned for its comprehensive legal services and unwavering commitment to client advocacy. With a team of seasoned professionals, the firm offers expertise across various legal domains, ensuring tailored solutions that address the unique needs of...
O'Dwyer LLP Solicitors
Ballyhaunis, Ireland

Founded in 1916
English
O'Dwyer LLP Solicitors, established in 1916, has been a cornerstone of the Ballyhaunis community in County Mayo for over a century. The firm has evolved through generations, maintaining a steadfast commitment to delivering comprehensive legal services to both individuals and businesses. Their...
Horan & Son LLP
Galway, Ireland

Founded in 1949
English
Established in 1949 by William J. C. Horan, Horan & Son LLP has been a cornerstone of the Galway legal community for over six decades. The firm transitioned leadership in 2007 to Enda Nolan and Maeve Joyce, who continue to uphold its legacy of excellence. With a dedicated team of seventeen...

Founded in 2009
English
Padraig J. Sheehan Solicitors, established in 2009, is a general practice law firm located in Cork city. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including insolvency and debt recovery, personal injury, property and conveyancing, wills and probate, family law, litigation, and...

English
Douglas Law Solicitors LLP, based in Douglas, Cork, offers a comprehensive range of legal services to clients nationwide. Their areas of expertise include commercial law, employment and pensions law, medical negligence, personal injuries, property law, family law, wills and probate, and advising...
Paul J Cunney & Co. Solicitors
Swinford, Ireland

English
Paul J Cunney & Co. Solicitors, located in Swinford, County Mayo, offers a comprehensive range of legal services to both private and commercial clients throughout Ireland. The firm is committed to delivering professional, efficient, cost-effective, and confidential services, ensuring that clients...
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About Corporate & Commercial Law in Ireland

Corporate and commercial law in Ireland covers the legal rules, regulations, and practices that govern how businesses operate, interact, and conduct transactions. This branch of law is essential for anyone involved in starting, running, buying, selling, or dissolving businesses in Ireland. Corporate law mainly focuses on issues relating to companies, such as incorporation, shareholders, directors' duties, mergers, and acquisitions. Commercial law, on the other hand, is broader and includes contracts, trade, competition, agency, and general business dealings. Ireland’s status as a member of the European Union means its legal system is influenced by both Irish statutes and EU regulations, making compliance particularly important for businesses operating locally and transnationally.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations in which seeking legal advice from an experienced corporate and commercial lawyer in Ireland is advisable. These include:

  • Incorporating a new company or partnership
  • Drafting, reviewing, or negotiating commercial contracts and agreements
  • Mergers, acquisitions, or disposals of businesses
  • Dealing with shareholder disputes or director issues
  • Ensuring compliance with regulatory and corporate governance requirements
  • Intellectual property protection for commercial ventures
  • Franchising, joint ventures, or strategic alliances
  • Raising capital or investment, including venture capital and private equity
  • Resolving business disputes through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation
  • Adapting business practices to comply with changing laws, such as data protection or competition rules

Professional guidance helps ensure that your business interests are protected, risks are managed correctly, and legal pitfalls are avoided.

Local Laws Overview

Several key legislative frameworks govern the field of corporate and commercial law in Ireland. The principal piece of legislation for company matters is the Companies Act 2014, which consolidates much of the law surrounding the formation, operation, and dissolution of companies. Compliance with this Act is central to maintaining good corporate standing.

Other relevant areas include competition law, as set out in the Competition Act 2002 and its amendments, which prohibit anti-competitive practices and regulate mergers. Consumer protection regulations, employment law statutes, and intellectual property laws also intersect regularly with commercial activities.

Ireland's Data Protection Act 2018 implements the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), crucial for businesses handling personal data. In addition, Ireland follows EU rules on cross-border transactions, which can affect contract terms, dispute resolution, and taxation.

Key authorities and regulators include the Companies Registration Office (CRO), the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE), the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), and the Central Bank of Ireland for financial firms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is required to incorporate a company in Ireland?

To incorporate a company in Ireland, you must choose a company type, reserve a unique company name, draft a constitution, provide details of directors and a registered office, and file the necessary forms and fee with the Companies Registration Office (CRO).

Do I need a director who is resident in Ireland?

Yes, typically, at least one director of an Irish company must be a resident of a European Economic Area state. If this is not possible, you may need to take out a bond to cover certain liabilities.

What ongoing compliance requirements do Irish companies have?

Companies must hold annual general meetings, file annual returns and financial statements with the CRO, maintain statutory registers, and comply with tax and regulatory filings.

How are commercial contracts enforced in Ireland?

Commercial contracts are legally binding if they meet requirements such as offer, acceptance, consideration, and intention to create legal relations. Disputes are usually resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation in the Irish courts.

What rules apply to mergers and acquisitions?

Mergers and acquisitions are regulated primarily by the Companies Act 2014 and competition law. Large deals may require notification to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission for review and approval.

How is intellectual property protected for businesses?

Ireland’s laws protect patents, trademarks, copyrights, and design rights. Intellectual property can be registered nationally and, in some cases, at EU level. Legal remedies are available for infringement.

Are there specific rules about data protection?

Yes, the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR set strict obligations on how companies collect, process, and store personal data. Compliance involves implementing data policies, security measures, and responding to data subject requests.

What should be included in a standard commercial contract?

A typical commercial contract should detail the parties involved, subject matter, price, terms of delivery or performance, payment, warranties, liability, dispute resolution procedures, and termination clauses.

Can foreigners own or manage companies in Ireland?

Yes, there are generally no restrictions on foreign ownership. However, certain roles like directors may have residency requirements. Additional filings and compliance checks may apply.

What happens if a business is in financial difficulty?

If a company faces financial trouble, several restructuring or insolvency procedures are available, such as examinership, receivership, or liquidation, under the guidance of the Companies Act 2014. Legal advice is essential for managing these situations.

Additional Resources

Several resources and organizations can help individuals and businesses navigate corporate and commercial law in Ireland:

  • Companies Registration Office (CRO) - Handles company formation and filings
  • Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE) - Oversees company law compliance
  • Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) - Regulates competition, mergers, and consumer rights
  • Central Bank of Ireland - Supervises financial services entities
  • Irish Law Society - Provides information on finding solicitors and legal guidance
  • Enterprise Ireland - Supports business growth, funding, and compliance for entrepreneurs
  • Revenue Commissioners - Responsible for business taxation and reporting

Next Steps

If you think you need legal assistance with corporate or commercial matters in Ireland, consider these steps:

  • Assess your specific legal needs and the type of expertise required
  • Gather all relevant documents and details about your issue or transaction
  • Contact a qualified solicitor or firm with corporate and commercial law experience in Ireland
  • Ask about the fee structure and likely timescales
  • Work closely with your adviser to stay informed and involved throughout the process

Seeking professional legal advice early can help you make sound decisions, avoid potential disputes, and protect your business interests in a rapidly changing legal and commercial environment in Ireland.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Ireland through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Corporate & Commercial, experience, and client feedback. 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. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Ireland - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

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. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.