The announcement, made by the Courts Service earlier today, will be welcomed by many separating couples whose cases have been delayed due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Chairperson of the Law Society’s Family and Child Law Committee, Helen Coughlan, said, “Today’s announcement is a very welcome development and hopefully marks the start of a number of initiatives following constructive and positive engagement between the Law Society, Bar Council and the Courts Service. This progress will provide much-needed reassurance to families currently in limbo as a result of pandemic restrictions in our courts.” 

“Just last month, the Law Society of Ireland called for increased investment and an implementation plan to overhaul the family law system. This engagement is a positive first step towards improving this vitally important legal system to ensure access to justice for the most vulnerable in our society,” she said.

“It is with sincere thanks that I pay tribute to the Court Service and County Registrar, Rita Considine, for the significant progress made to resolve this issue, which will ultimately get the family courts moving again and help families move on with their lives,” concluded Ms Coughlan.

Seán Ó’hUallacháin, Senior Counsel, Bar Council of Ireland, said, “Throughout this past year, the prioritisation of urgent family and child matters by the Courts Service and Judiciary has been valued by clients and practitioners.”

“Today’s announcement. that case progression and call overs in the Dublin Circuit Family Court are commencing on May 12th, with plans for increased through-put over the coming weeks and months, is a further positive development for so many families and individuals. Practitioners support the ongoing work to improve access to justice for clients as restrictions ease. “

To see the full list of the Court Services new family law arrangements, visit the Courts Service Website.

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