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Arrangements for children

Depending on your relationship, you may need to deal with issues affecting children, such as:

  • Guardianship – legal responsibility for decisions about a child's upbringing.
  • Custody – the day-to-day care and home life of a child under 18.
  • Access – the right of a child and an adult to have contact when they do not live together.
  • Child passport issues – court orders about applying for or holding a child’s passport.

You may wish to get legal advice. Mediation and support services can also help.

Child safety:

If you have concerns about the safety of a child you should report the issue to Tusla and the Gardaí. You may need to make a court application in relation to an issue that impacts a child. If you have any concerns about the child’s safety, you should bring this to the attention of the judge.

  • How to apply

    Step-by-step guide to applying for a guardianship, custody or access order

  • Access

    Find out what to do if you’ve received divorce papers and how to respond before the court date.

  • Custody

    Learn what child custody means, who has rights, and how to apply.

  • Guardianship

    Find out what guardianship is, who has rights, and how to apply.

  • Child passport issues

    See why you may need to apply to court regarding a child's passport.

  • I have been served

    What to do if you have been served a court application

  • Legal help and mediation services

    Learn how to get legal advice or help from a solicitor. Find out what mediation is and how it can help you reach an agreement without going to court.

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