Inheritance rights in Ireland
Understand your legal entitlements as a spouse, child, sibling or beneficiary
We help individuals and families resolve inheritance issues and enforce their rights under Irish succession law.
Inheritance law in Ireland
Inheritance law in Ireland outlines who is entitled to receive a share of a deceased person’s estate — whether there is a valid will or not. While the law aims to ensure fair distribution, disputes often arise when a will excludes a family member, favours one heir over another, or lacks clarity.
We help clients understand and assert their inheritance rights, whether they are spouses, children, siblings, or named beneficiaries of a will in Ireland.
Let us call you.
Children’s inheritance rights in Ireland
Under Irish succession law, children can make a claim if they believe their parent failed in their moral duty to provide for them. This is done through a Section 117 application to the court.
The court will assess:
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The size of the estate
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The financial needs of the child
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Any provision already made during the parent’s lifetime
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The moral obligation owed by the deceased
We advise adult children and their representatives on whether a Section 117 claim is appropriate and what evidence is needed to support it.
Spouses and civil partners
A surviving spouse or civil partner is entitled to a legal right share of the estate — even if they are excluded from the will. This includes:
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One-half of the estate (if there are no children)
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One-third of the estate (if there are children)
This right overrides the terms of the will and applies automatically. We can help ensure this share is calculated correctly and received in full.
Inheritance rights of siblings
Inheritance rights of siblings vary depending on whether a valid will exists:
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If there is no will, siblings may inherit under intestacy rules
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If a will exists, siblings are only entitled if named in it
If you’re concerned about being unfairly excluded or suspect the will was manipulated, we can advise whether you may have grounds to challenge it or claim a greater share.
We also assist in disputes between siblings after a parent’s death, particularly where one sibling has been made executor, received a disproportionate benefit, or taken control of family assets.
Rights of beneficiaries of a will in Ireland
If you are a named beneficiary of a will in Ireland, you have the right to:
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Receive your inheritance in a timely and accurate manner
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View a copy of the will and understand its terms
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Be kept informed by the executor about the progress of probate
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Raise concerns if the executor delays or mishandles the estate
If your rights are being ignored, or you believe there is mismanagement, we can take legal steps to compel the executor to act, or apply to the court for their removal.
Common inheritance issues we handle
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Disputes over unequal inheritance between children
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Exclusion of a child or sibling from a will
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Executors withholding information or delaying probate
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Conflicts over jointly owned family property
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Breach of trust by a family member handling the estate
Whatever the situation, our goal is to protect your interests and help reach a fair resolution.
Why choose Adams Law?
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Trusted advisers on inheritance law in Ireland
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Extensive experience in family inheritance disputes
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Clear, practical advice on your rights
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Fast action to protect beneficiaries and assets
Speak to an inheritance solicitor today
If you’re unsure about your inheritance rights, or want advice on enforcing them, we’re here to help.
Email info@adamslaw.ie
Call +353 1 678 9774
