Frequently Asked Questions – Legal Advice in Waterford

When dealing with legal matters, it is natural to have questions. Whether you are planning ahead, managing a family situation or navigating a legal process for the first time, having clear and reliable information is essential.

In this section, we have set out answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from clients across Waterford and the wider south-east. We have kept the explanations straightforward while ensuring they reflect the practical realities of Irish law.

Our aim is to help you better understand your position before taking the next step. While these answers provide general guidance, every situation is different. We are always available to discuss your circumstances in detail and provide advice tailored to your needs.

Peter O’Connor & Son Solicitors is a Waterford-based law firm led by Thomas Murran and Paul Murran, providing legal advice to individuals and families across Waterford and the wider south-east of Ireland.

The firm name reflects its origins as a family practice founded by Peter O’Connor, with the firm continuing through successive generations. Today, the practice combines long-established local knowledge with modern legal expertise.

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We advise primarily in personal and general practice, family-focused areas of Irish law, including:

  • Wills and estate planning
  • Probate and estate administration
  • Property sales and purchases of both residential and commercial property; 
  • Property leases of both residential and commercial property; 
  • Personal Injury claims; 
  • Litigation (at all Court levels) including Commercial Litigation; 
  • Employment Law; 
  • Immigration Law; 
  • Decision Making Representation and capacity law
  • Enduring Powers of Attorney
  • Fair Deal Scheme related legal applications

If you are unsure whether we can assist with your matter, please contact us to discuss your situation.

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Yes. Appointments ensure that sufficient time is allocated to review your matter and provide appropriate legal advice. Please contact our office to arrange an appointment. You can call us on 051-874-909 or email us at info@poc.ie

It is helpful to bring:

  • Relevant documents or correspondence
  • Photo identification (passport or drivers license) and proof of address (utility bill or bank statement) dated within the last three months; 
  • A brief written summary of your situation
  • Any key dates or deadlines

If additional documents are required, we will advise you in advance.

Decision Making Representation (DMR) is a Circuit Court process where a person is appointed to make specific decisions on behalf of someone who has lost legal capacity and does not have an Enduring Power of Attorney in place.

Applications require medical evidence, independent reports and detailed court documentation.

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A DMR application may be required where decisions relating to finances, property or care must be made and the person concerned lacks the legal capacity to make those decisions themselves.

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Timeframes vary depending on the availability of medical reports, court schedules and the complexity of the application. Proper preparation can significantly reduce delays.

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An Enduring Power of Attorney is made in advance while a person has capacity.
Decision Making Representation is a court application made after capacity has been lost.

Putting an Enduring Power of Attorney in place early can help avoid the need for court involvement later.

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Yes. We assist clients and families where legal authority is required to progress a Fair Deal Scheme application, including through Decision Making Representation where appropriate.

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Yes. We provide conveyancing services for residential and commercial property, including sales, purchases, leases and related legal advice. We guide clients through each stage of the legal process.

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Timelines vary depending on title, finance approval, surveys and third-party delays. We keep clients informed throughout the process so they know what to expect.

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If a person dies without a will, their estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy. These rules may not reflect personal wishes or family circumstances, which is why making a will is strongly advised.

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Yes, in limited circumstances and within strict statutory time limits. Early legal advice is essential in these cases. Please contact our office to arrange an appointment. You can call us on 051-874-909 or email us at info@poc.ie

Yes. We provides Notary Public services for individuals and businesses requiring documents to be notarised for use abroad.

Notarial services include the certification of documents, witnessing signatures and verification of identity for international legal, commercial and personal matters. Appointments are required.

To book a Notary Public appointment, please visit: https://paulmurran.ie/

Fees depend on the nature and complexity of the matter. We aim to be transparent about costs and will discuss fees with you at the outset.

Yes. All consultations and communications are handled in strict confidence in accordance with our professional obligations.

Final note

This FAQ page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is different and tailored legal advice should always be sought.