Maria O Donovan & Co Solicitors

Maria O Donovan & Co Solicitors Your Family.

Our Focus - MoD & Co specialise in helping individuals and families navigate some of life’s most challenging moments with clarity, compassion, and expert legal support.

31/07/2026

What happens to the family home after separation or divorce?
For many families, the family home is more than just a property.

It's often the most valuable asset involved and can be tied to difficult emotional decisions.
Options may include:
✔ Selling the property
✔ One spouse buying out the other
✔ Delaying a sale until a future date

The right solution depends on your family's circumstances.
If you're unsure about your options, we're here to help.

What do you think is the most challenging aspect of deciding what happens to the family home after separation?

Why do some property sales take months longer than expected?Many delays happen long before contracts are signed.Common c...
30/07/2026

Why do some property sales take months longer than expected?
Many delays happen long before contracts are signed.

Common causes include:
Missing title documents
Planning issues Delays from third parties
Incomplete paperwork

The earlier potential problems are identified, the easier they are to resolve.
Thinking of selling?

Send us a message and we'll help you understand what preparation may be needed.

If you've bought or sold property before, what caused the biggest delay in your experience?

https://modandco.ie/faster-deeds-less-red-tape/

Will you have to pay Capital Gains Tax when selling your property?The answer depends on the property.If it's your princi...
29/07/2026

Will you have to pay Capital Gains Tax when selling your property?
The answer depends on the property.

If it's your principal private residence, you may qualify for a full exemption.

However, things can become more complex if:
✔ The property was rented out
✔ Part was used for business
✔ It wasn't your main residence for the entire ownership period

Every situation is different.
If you're planning a sale and would like clarity on the legal aspects, get in touch.

Did you know that your main residence may qualify for a Capital Gains Tax exemption?

https://modandco.ie/property-taxes-in-ireland/

Not every property dispute starts with a contract.Sometimes it starts with a promise.A parent promises a child the famil...
28/07/2026

Not every property dispute starts with a contract.
Sometimes it starts with a promise.

A parent promises a child the family farm.
A relative promises someone they will always have a home.
Years pass. Circumstances change.
Then the dispute begins.

If you've relied on promises relating to property, it may be important to understand where you stand legally.

Our latest blog explores:
✔ When informal promises can become significant
✔ Why reliance matters
✔ The role of financial and personal contributions
✔ What options may be available if a dispute arises

Knowledge and early legal advice can often help prevent difficult situations from escalating.

https://modandco.ie/proprietary-estoppel-ireland/

Need guidance? Send us a message.

What do you think causes most family property disputes: misunderstandings, changing circumstances, or lack of written agreements?

Could a property transaction trigger an unexpected tax bill?Many people don't realise there can be tax implications when...
27/07/2026

Could a property transaction trigger an unexpected tax bill?

Many people don't realise there can be tax implications when buying or selling property.

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to consider:
✔ Capital Gains Tax
✔ Stamp Duty
✔ Local Property Tax

The rules aren't always straightforward, and assumptions can be costly.
Before making any major property decisions, it's worth understanding exactly where you stand.
Not sure what applies to you? Send us a message.

Before reading this, were you aware that multiple property taxes can apply when buying or selling a home?

Does divorce automatically mean the family farm must be sold?One of the biggest misconceptions we see is that Irish divo...
25/07/2026

Does divorce automatically mean the family farm must be sold?
One of the biggest misconceptions we see is that Irish divorce law requires a 50/50 split of all assets.
That's not how it works.

When a family farm is involved, the courts focus on achieving proper provision for both spouses and dependent children.

Factors that may be considered include:
✔ The viability of the farm business
✔ Inherited versus marital assets
✔ Financial and non-financial contributions
✔ Children's future needs
Every family and every farm is different.

If you're facing separation or divorce and are concerned about the future of a family farm, getting advice early can make a significant difference.

Send us a message if you'd like to discuss your situation confidentially.

Have you ever assumed that divorce automatically means assets must be split 50/50?

Read more on our blog: https://modandco.ie/the-family-farm-and-proper-
provision-in-irish-divorce-law/

Is a verbal promise about property worth anything in law?It's a question we hear more often than you might think.Family ...
23/07/2026

Is a verbal promise about property worth anything in law?

It's a question we hear more often than you might think.

Family arrangements are frequently based on trust rather than formal agreements. But when expectations and reality no longer match, disputes can arise.

Some common situations include:
✔ Working for years on a family farm
✔ Paying for improvements to a property you don't own
✔ Caring for relatives based on future promises
✔ Making major life decisions because of assurances you've received

When these situations break down, understanding your rights becomes important.

Our latest blog explains how Irish courts approach these cases and why clear documentation matters.

https://modandco.ie/proprietary-estoppel-ireland/

If you'd like advice on your own situation, send us a message.

Have you ever relied on a verbal promise when making an important decision?

A proud moment for all of us at Maria O’Donovan & Co. 💚Congratulations to Maria O' Donovan on this wonderful feature in ...
22/07/2026

A proud moment for all of us at Maria O’Donovan & Co. 💚

Congratulations to Maria O' Donovan on this wonderful feature in The Echo celebrating her entrepreneurial journey and the exciting launch of her third business.

While Maria’s vision, courage and determination are the driving force behind everything we do, we also know that none of this happens without an incredible team working together every day. It’s a privilege to be part of a business built on compassion, innovation, excellence and a genuine desire to make a difference for our clients.

As Maria continues to dream big, we’re right beside her supporting the vision, embracing the challenges, and looking ahead with a mix of excitement… and just a little trepidation about what brilliant idea she’ll come up with next! 😉

Here’s to the future, to continued growth, and to making an even bigger impact together.

Congratulations, Maria! We’re incredibly proud. 💚

What happens if someone promised you a property… and then changed their mind?Many people spend years helping on a family...
22/07/2026

What happens if someone promised you a property… and then changed their mind?

Many people spend years helping on a family farm, caring for relatives, or investing money into a home because they were told:
"It will all be yours one day."
"You'll always have a place here."

But what happens when those promises are later withdrawn?

In certain circumstances, Irish courts may recognise rights based on promises that were never formally written down.
✔ Verbal assurances can sometimes have legal consequences ✔ Family property disputes are often more complex than they appear
✔ Contributions to a property may be relevant
✔ Every situation depends on the specific facts involved

Understanding your position early can make a significant difference.
If you're dealing with a property or inheritance dispute, send us a message.

Were you aware that an informal promise about property could potentially lead to a legal claim?

https://modandco.ie/proprietary-estoppel-ireland/

Address

The Square
Skibbereen

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 5:30pm
Thursday 9am - 5:30pm
Friday 9am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+3532823787

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