Cohabiting Couples & Wills Cork — Why You Must Act Now

Hugh Phelan Solicitor & Notary Public · Douglas, Cork · 021-489-7134

Hugh Phelan Solicitor & Notary Public — Douglas, Cork

Professional legal services for Cork clients. Wills, Probate, Power of Attorney, Notarisation & Apostille.

📞 Call 021-489-7134 Book Appointment →

If you are living with your partner but not married, Irish law does not automatically protect them if you die. Unlike spouses, cohabiting partners have NO automatic right to inherit — regardless of how long you have been together or how much you have built together.

Critical fact for Cork cohabiting couples: If you die without a will, your partner could be left with nothing. Your estate could pass to your parents, siblings or more distant relatives — all before your partner receives anything.

The Risk for Unmarried Partners in Ireland

SituationWhat happens without a will
Cohabiting 2 years, no willPartner gets NOTHING — must apply to court
Cohabiting 20 years, no willSame — partner must apply to court
Cohabiting, children togetherChildren may inherit; partner still at risk
Married partner, with willPartner inherits as directed in will

What a Will Does for Cohabiting Couples

Joint Will vs Mirror Wills

Many cohabiting couples choose mirror wills — each leaving everything to the other, then to agreed secondary beneficiaries (e.g. children or other family). Hugh Phelan Solicitor can advise on the most appropriate arrangement for your circumstances.

Hugh Phelan Solicitor & Notary Public — Douglas, Cork

Professional legal services for Cork clients. Wills, Probate, Power of Attorney, Notarisation & Apostille.

📞 Call 021-489-7134 Book Appointment →