Blog

Recent Social Media Posts by Róisín :

LinkedIn: 06/03/26

🏡 Many Couples Separate Months Before They Physically Move Apart 🏘️

A stage of separation that is often overlooked is the in-between period, when couples have decided to separate but longer-term arrangements are still being worked through.

In this video, I discuss how creating temporary structure around finances, parenting and household routines can help reduce conflict and support families while those larger decisions are being made

LinkedIn: 04/03/26

🤹‍♀️ Are We Striking the Right Balance Between Privacy, Protection and the Child’s Voice in Family Law? ♎

Family law operates within a framework designed to protect privacy. The in camera rule serves an important purpose, particularly where children are concerned. At the same time, recent discussion about its operation, and about the preparation of Section 32 welfare reports, invites thoughtful reflection from those of us working in this field.

📖 Read recent article here: https://lnkd.in/egTKQFhT

In cases where domestic violence or coercive control is part of the background, the dynamics can be complex. Applications for access, requests for expert reports, and differing narratives about family relationships can place significant pressure on an already fragile system.

For family law professionals, a few professional questions are worth ongoing consideration:
• How do we ensure that all assessments and reports are fully informed by an understanding of domestic violence dynamics?
• How do we maintain the right balance between necessary confidentiality and appropriate transparency?
• How do we consistently keep children’s lived experiences at the centre of decision-making?

In my mediation practice, I see how carefully screened, trauma-informed mediation can support resolution in suitable cases, reducing escalation and helping parents focus on their children’s needs.

Equally, I am conscious that mediation is not appropriate in every circumstance. Robust screening, clear safeguards and sensitivity to power imbalance are essential components of ethical practice.

As reform discussions continue, the core priority remains clear: that all family law processes, whether court-based or through alternative dispute resolution-are safe, fair and truly centred on the needs and experiences of children.

LinkedIn: 27/02/26

Delighted to see the Child Maintenance Calculator finally published by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration. This is a really welcome and practical step forward for families navigating separation and divorce, and for professionals supporting them.

I spent some time using the tool and found it very user-friendly. It should be a helpful starting point for guiding discussions and decisions around child maintenance.
That said, a few important points stood out:
💢 You’ll need full and accurate information
The calculator requires the gross income of both parents to produce a meaningful estimate.

💢 Where the calculator may not be suitable
The tool is not designed to reflect more complex financial circumstances, including:
💵 Significant assets
Where either parent has substantial assets (e.g. property or investments), the calculator may not provide an appropriate guide.

💸 Significant additional expenses
Where there are substantial costs related to:
Disability
Childcare
Education
Medical needs
These costs are typically dealt with outside standard maintenance calculations and are often shared between parents.

💰 High combined income
The calculator is unsuitable where combined gross parental income exceeds €288,956 per year.

🧒 Children from different relationships
The tool does not account for situations where a parent is paying maintenance for children from multiple relationships.

👨‍🦳 Non-parent carers
The calculator is not designed for use by non-parents (e.g. grandparents) involved in a child’s care.

🫰 High-earning dependants
It is unsuitable where dependants have significant income, property, or other financial resources.

🧒 x3 More than three children
The calculator applies the same cost estimate to families with three or more children and bases calculations on the ages of the three eldest children. While aligned with international best practice, this may not reflect the realities of some larger families.

👩‍⚖️ Importantly, the calculator does not override any existing court order. It is intended as a starting point for discussion and a general guideline only.

Overall, this is a significant step forward in increasing transparency in an area where there is very limited publicly available information due to the in camera rule. A genuinely positive development for separating families and those supporting them.

Access here: https://lnkd.in/edkPXW8s

LinkedIn: 25/02/26

One dynamic I often see in family mediation is how hard it can be to watch a former partner change after a relationship ends.

People sometimes arrive feeling hurt or confused that the other person is now investing more in their health, showing up differently as a parent, or building a new relationship, especially when those things felt absent during the relationship itself. That feeling can quietly sit in the room and affect how open or flexible someone is during the process.

It’s a delicate balance in mediation: making space for those feelings to be acknowledged, while also helping people move forward without getting stuck in blame or comparison.

What’s often missed is that big changes sometimes happen because the relationship ending is a major emotional and practical turning point in itself. For some people, it becomes a moment of wake-up, reflection, or reset, not a rewrite of the past.

Naming that difference can help take some of the sting out of it and create a bit more room for progress at the table.

LinkedIn: 23/02/26

🤔 Is It Just Me… or Is Mediation Suddenly Everywhere? 🤔

I’ve noticed a real shift in the last year. What used to pop up occasionally in legal reporting now shows up every few days, court cases paused, judges encouraging mediation, parties choosing to try it earlier.

A recent example is the dispute between The Hoxton Dublin and Yamamori Izakaya, where Trinity Hospitality is seeking an injunction and both sides agreed to go to mediation.

📖 Read the case here: https://lnkd.in/e6sp4j2N

In early January, at the Law Society of Ireland of Ireland’s Future of Legal Practice Summit, it was put simply:
“Mediation has moved into the mainstream.”

And you can feel it.

It’s no longer just family law. We’re seeing it across:

🧿 Commercial disputes
🧿Shareholder and boardroom fallouts
🧿Neighbour and property rows
🧿Workplace breakdowns
🧿Parenting and family conflicts
🧿State and institutional claims

Not a week goes by without mediation being mentioned somewhere.
And no, it’s not just my mediation-tinted glasses 😅

Courts are referencing it more. Lawyers are using it more strategically. People are turning to it earlier. Mediation isn’t the soft option anymore.
It’s the smart one.
https://lnkd.in/ekyB6V8T

LinkedIn: 19/02/26

💡 Why isnt everything split 50/50 in Separation & Divorce Cases?

A really interesting judgment was released by the High Court last week in a contested judicial separation case involving assets of around €6 million.
It involved:
▪️ A long marriage.
▪️ Children.
▪️ A family home.
▪️ A business.
▪️2 other properties

Any yet the assets were not divided equally.

In Ireland, separation and divorce aren’t about what feels “fair” in an emotional sense. The legal test is proper provision and that doesn’t automatically mean a 50/50 split.
A few key points from this case:
🔹 50/50 isn’t a given:
Even after a long marriage, the court isn’t required to divide assets equally.

🔹 Where the money comes from matters:
Much of the wealth came from a family business and land that pre-dated the marriage. The court placed real weight on that.

🔹 Income-producing assets are protected:
The business was treated as something that needed to keep functioning. Courts are slow to undermine income streams that support a family’s future.

🔹 Lifestyle vs reality:
The family had lived well beyond their actual income for years. The court was clear that living off assets can only last so long, decisions have to be grounded in what’s sustainable.

✨ Mediation made a real difference for the children ✨
One really positive part of this case: the judge specifically acknowledged and welcomed that the parents had used mediation to agree arrangements for their children, and noted the children had a good relationship with both parents.

That kind of cooperation really matters for children, even when finances remain contested.

📖 Read the Case here: https://lnkd.in/ebMsFbNJ

LinkedIn: 16/02/26

Grief is heavy enough without legal shock on top of it.

I regularly meet families who are blindsided after a death, discovering they’ve been left out of a will, or that the law doesn’t do what they assumed it would. The emotional fallout can fracture relationships long after the funeral.

The legal position depends on what’s in place:
🔃 If there is a will, different rights and claims can arise.
🔃If there is no will (intestacy), strict rules apply under the Succession Act 1965, and they don’t always reflect modern families.

One frequently misunderstood point: cohabitants are not automatically covered by intestacy rules. That doesn’t mean they have no rights, but it does mean they must meet certain criteria and they must actively seek redress in short sequence, often at an already painful time.

Knowing your rights (and your risks) changes how people plan, communicate, and protect the people they love.

🖼️ This visual sets out the key points in clear, straightforward terms. 🖼️
https://lnkd.in/ekyB6V8T

LinkedIn: 12/02/26

I’ve always been interested in fairness and accountability.

As a child, I once sent a complaint letter to a sweet company, defective mint sellotaped to the page, and received a large complimentary box of sweets in return. “Hush sweets,” I suppose….but it worked. It was a small but lasting lesson: systems respond when you understand how to engage with them.

As a young single parent, I had to quickly learn how to navigate rights, entitlements and social systems in real life. Professionally, my background in social care and later managing teams in the Citizens Information Phone Service deepened that understanding. My work centred on translating complex social policies, welfare schemes, and legal rights and entitlements into clear, practical guidance so people could apply them to their own circumstances.

Today, as a mediator, that foundation shapes how I practice. Mediation is not just about resolving disputes; it is about ensuring people understand their rights, their options, and the legal framework within which decisions are being made. Legal concepts can feel overwhelming, especially when people are already under pressure.

That is why, both in mediation and in what I share on LinkedIn, I focus on breaking down complex legal information into accessible, human language. Legal knowledge should empower people and not sit behind technical jargon or closed doors.

👶 And just to show where it all started…here’s three-year-old me, mid-tantrum, clearly upset that my rights weren’t being respected 👶

LinkedIn: 09/02/26

🏇 Mediation: Knowing When to Steady the Horse You Rode In On 🏇

A recent High Court dispute in the Show Jumping Association of Ireland shows just how quickly board disagreements can spill into the public eye, even naming individual directors, before the matter was referred to private mediation.

By then, reputations were already exposed, and the court noted that airing the allegations further was unlikely to help resolve anything.

For boards, particularly voluntary ones, early intervention can often prevent tensions from escalating.

Board directors often act with the best intentions, but once disagreements spill into the public arena, the fallout can be severe- damaging reputations, careers, and trust for years to come.

Mediation, if used early, can help boards:

🤐 Keep discussions confidential
🪬 Protect reputations
📑 Provide a clear process to resolve disagreements
🤝 Preserve relationships and maintain governance integrity

Mediation isn’t something to save for the worst-case scenario. For boards, it’s the smart first step-a chance to resolve problems before they spiral out of control.

📖 Read the case here: https://lnkd.in/e487y92S

LinkedIn: 06/02/26

🦢 Is Mediation Really About Calm, Or Constant Readiness? 🦢

Most people think mediation is about staying calm.
It is.
But what is rarely spoken about is how much controlled intensity sits behind that calm.

Mediation often means living in a constant state of readiness. A quiet afternoon at the desk can quickly shift once the phone rings and you need to respond to a time sensitive and majorly complex issue.

A single comment, a shift in tone, or heightened emotion can completely change the course of a live mediation process.

There is a demanding balance in the role.

You have to be emotionally present, analytically sharp, and practically organised, while projecting steadiness for people navigating one of the most stressful transitions of their lives.

I often think about the swan analogy- Above the water, calm and effortless.
Below the surface, constant movement, adjusting, stabilising, responding to unseen currents.

Good mediation feels like that.Constant preparation.Constant emotional calibration. Constant quiet system-building so that when clients need support,inside the session or afterwards, the space is already there to hold them.

It is demanding work. It is human work. And much of it goes unseen.

Does this reflect the experience of others working in mediation and emotionally intensive roles?

Ps: I love the caricature of myself as a swan!!
https://coastservices.ie/

LinkedIn: 05/02/26

👩‍⚖️ When does family law litigation stop serving families?

Having just read Mary Carolan recent The Irish Times article, I was struck by how clearly this case illustrates the way family law proceedings can, over time, become highly protracted and deeply challenging for those involved.

Following a two-year relationship, the parties remained engaged in litigation for 15 years, involving more than 100 court appearances, over 30 applications across all court levels up to the Supreme Court, and legal costs in excess of €350,000.

Judges repeatedly expressed concern about the impact of the proceedings on both the mother and the child. However, meaningful restrictions on further litigation were introduced only after many years, when the Supreme Court ultimately upheld an order limiting future applications.

While the courts did, in time, acknowledge the difficulties arising from how the litigation unfolded, the case highlights the challenges the system faces in responding swiftly and effectively as situations escalate.

It points to the importance of earlier intervention, consistent case management and oversight, and greater use of non-adversarial approaches, so that family justice processes can better support families and children to achieve fair and reasonable outcomes.

📖 Read the case here (subscriber only- well worth the €1!): https://lnkd.in/ernDWmVF

LinkedIn: 03/02/26

🧿 Harm recognised…Resolution denied? 🕊️ 🙅

This case is a powerful reminder of both the limitations of our legal frameworks and the missed opportunities when mediation isn’t available as a pathway to resolution.

Despite clear findings by the Supreme Court that Ms Kerins’ constitutional rights were breached, the absence of a mechanism to offer apology, acknowledgement, or remedy outside the courts has left this matter unresolved more than a decade on.

Senior Counsel’s advice that mediation is not legally permissible for the Oireachtas Commission highlights a structural gap rather than a failure of mediation itself.

What strikes me when I read about this case is that mediation is not solely about financial outcomes. At its core, it offers a structured, independent space for acknowledgement, accountability, and repair, particularly important where harm has been publicly recognised but cannot be meaningfully addressed through litigation alone.

The Taoiseach’s repeated calls for mediation reflect an understanding that durable resolution often requires more than legal findings. Mediation can provide voice, validation, and a way forward that protects institutional integrity while also recognising individual impact.

Cases like this prompt an important question:
Are our systems sufficiently equipped to resolve disputes that sit at the intersection of law, public accountability, and human dignity?

📖 Read about the case here: https://lnkd.in/eHGnEzKr

LinkedIn: 29/01/26

I had a fantastic morning yesterday at the Cork College of FET – Morrison’s Island Campus, presenting on all things mediation to Social Work and Legal Studies students. I was really impressed by the students’ engagement and curiosity and by the strong culture and commitment to learning that’s evident throughout the college.

Thanks to Paul Cotter for the invitation as part of the “Industry Connect” initiative, which aims to embed meaningful industry engagement across college programs.

As a parent of a senior cycle secondary student, it was a real pleasure to visit the college, and I’m looking forward to attending the open day with him in a few weeks.

LinkedIn: 27/01/26

⌚ ⏰ How Long Should a Mediation Session Be? ⏰ ⌚

Most of my mediation sessions are intentionally capped at 2–3 hours.
Not because agreement isn’t important, but because exhaustion and overwhelm isn’t the same as resolution.

I’ve never been comfortable with the idea of negotiating late into the night until parties are worn down, overwhelmed, or simply too depleted to continue. Pressure may produce an outcome, but it may not always produce a durable one.

That said, stopping and returning for a second session isn’t without its challenges. Momentum can fade, perspectives can shift and positions can harden.

For me, good mediation lives in that balance:
progress without pressure, pace without overwhelm, and agreements reached with clarity rather than fatigue.

https://lnkd.in/ekyB6V8T

LinkedIn: 26/01/26

🤝 What Trauma-Informed Mediation Looks Like in Practice 🤝

Supporting clients through mediation is at the centre of my work. From the outset, I prioritise safety, trust and clarity, always taking time to speak with each prospective client before mediation begins, explaining the process, and ensuring they feel informed, supported, and confident that their individual needs will be accommodated.

While the mediation process is active, clients know they can contact me with questions or concerns, and within sessions I structure the process to meet each person’s needs, creating a balanced space where everyone feels heard, respected, and not overwhelmed. A trauma-informed approach means being mindful of pace, power dynamics, and emotional safety at every stage.

To ensure I am continually improving and meeting clients where they are, I invite confidential feedback at the end of the process. This feedback is invaluable as it allows clients to share their experience in their own words, while helping me reflect, learn, and strengthen the support I provide.

https://lnkd.in/ekyB6V8T

LinkedIn: 20/01/26

I was genuinely delighted to see the Child Maintenance Guidelines published by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration yesterday, along with the promise that the long-awaited child maintenance calculator is about to be released (stop teasing us 🤣).

What really stands out is how thought-through (and quite complex!) the logic behind the calculations is. While no system can capture every family’s reality, these guidelines provide a strong, fair starting point for conversations about child maintenance and, importantly, offer a framework that can reduce conflict where families need clarity and support.

Here is a short synoposis of the Key Parametres of the Child Maintenance Formula:

▪️ Income:
Maintenance is based on both parents’ gross income (before tax), not just one. Some child-related social welfare payments are excluded, but most income is included.

▪️ Assets (Not considered):
Property and savings of parents are not counted, as including them would add unnecessary complexity and delays.

▪️ Cost of Raising a Child:
Costs are estimated using Irish data, supported by international models, and vary depending on:
– household income
– number of children
– children’s ages
Additional children are recognised as costing less than the first.

▪️ Parenting Time of Both Parents:
Maintenance adjusts only once parenting time is meaningful-around 14% of overnights (roughly one night per week). This avoids turning every hour of care into a financial transaction.

▪️ Daytime Equivalence:
Where both parents agree overnights can’t happen, longer daytime care (8+ hours) can be recognised so the main carer isn’t financially disadvantaged.

▪️ Self-Support Allowance:
Paying parents are protected by a self-support allowance, ensuring they can meet their own basic needs before paying maintenance. This is linked to Ireland’s poverty threshold and updated annually.

▪️ Minimum Contribution:
There is still a minimum contribution so both parents contribute:
– €5 per week minimum
– Increased where there are additional children

▪️ Other Dependants of Both Parents:
Support responsibilities for other children are taken into account so no child is unfairly disadvantaged.

▪️ Children’s Own Income:
A child’s income or assets are not considered, avoiding complexity or pressure on children.

▪️ Extra Costs:
Childcare, medical, educational and special needs costs are dealt with separately, usually shared equally or agreed case-by-case.

These guidelines won’t fit neatly into every family circumstance, but they offer a solid, child-centred foundation that supports informed discussions and helps families move forward with less conflict.

📖 Read Guidelines here: https://lnkd.in/ds5r2XZx

LinkedIn: 19/01/26

💜 Step-parenting: The Quiet Role Few Talk About 💜

Being both a parent and a stepparent has given me a deeper understanding of how complex blended family life can be. Being a step-parent is a role rooted in care, patience and responsibility, often without the same ability to influence decisions or shape the wider parenting approach. When different parenting styles, values and household systems overlap, it can create tension and uncertainty, especially where communication between homes is limited.

What I’m constantly reminded of, both personally and professionally, is that while step-parenting can be challenging, the experience for children navigating two families is often even more so. They are balancing different expectations, relationships and emotional worlds, sometimes feeling caught in the middle or unsure where they fully belong.

These lived insights continue to inform my mediation practice. They reinforce the importance of creating space for respectful communication, consistency where possible, and keeping children’s emotional wellbeing at the centre of conversations.

LinkedIn: 16/01/26

👏 Mediation is no longer an “alternative”, it’s mainstream. 👏

That message comes through clearly in reporting from the Law Society of Ireland Future of Legal Practice Summit at Blackhall Place which took place on the 8th of January 2026, where speakers highlighted the increasing pressure from judges to engage in mediation and the reality that ignoring a judicial nudge now carries real consequences.

With litigation costs becoming increasingly prohibitive and court delays continuing to impact access to justice, mediation is presented as a practical, confidential and relationship-preserving alternative. It is no longer a sign of a weak case, but of informed and strategic decision-making.

The article also highlights the continued importance of emotional intelligence and professional judgment and that even as technology reshapes legal practice, dispute resolution remains fundamentally human work.

For mediators, the shift is clear: our role is no longer on the margins, but firmly at the centre of how disputes are being resolved.

📖 Read the article here: https://lnkd.in/emHMPUwx

LinkedIn: 13/01/26

I held my first Joint mediation session of 2026 today, after taking a bit of extra time off over Christmas. It also happened to coincide with the arrival of my The Mediators’ Institute of Ireland Practising Certificate for the year ahead, a quiet reminder of returning to the work I am passionate about.

Mediation continues to feel like a real responsibility and a privilege, particularly when people are navigating difficult moments in their lives. It’s something I will continue to approach with care and respect.

The day ended with a different kind of focus: logging into my Law Society of Ireland Diploma in Family Law lecture with a three-year-old on my lap, crayons at the ready, a small snapshot of balancing practice, learning and family life.

https://lnkd.in/ekyB6V8T

LinkedIn: 12/01/26

🧒 The Best Interests of the Child 🧒

We often hear that the best interests of the child are at the heart of Irish family law, but in real life, that can be surprisingly hard to define, let alone protect, within legal proceedings.

In this short video, I consider how the adversarial nature of the court process can make it difficult to create real space for children’s voices, needs and lived experiences. I also talk about how mediation can help shift the focus away from conflict and towards more thoughtful, child-centred conversations, working alongside the legal system rather than replacing it.

https://lnkd.in/ekyB6V8T

LinkedIn: 08/01/26

💒 A recent court case in the Netherlands is a gentle reminder that, even in the age of AI, the legal requirements for marriage remain unchanged. 💒

In this case, a couple held what they believed was a valid civil wedding, complete with an informal ceremony and AI-assisted vows full of love, commitment and good intentions. However, the ceremony did not include the specific legal wording required under the law and the Dutch court ruled that, despite the romance, there was no legal marriage at all.

For Irish couples and celebrants, the case offers a useful reminder that in Ireland, marriage is a formal legal process. While ceremonies can be as personal and creative as you like, certain declarations under the Civil Registration Act 2004 are non-negotiable and forgetting them can have very real consequences.

💕 A wedding day should always be memorable…..just not for the wrong reasons. 🫠

📖 Read the case here: https://lnkd.in/eaPwkrR6

LinkedIn: 17/12/25

⏸️ A small pause at the end of a full year. ⏸️

From graduating and building a busy caseload, to starting another diploma and being shortlisted for an Emerging Leader award, the constant throughout 2025 was the privilege of working alongside thoughtful, committed clients navigating complex transitions.

💜 Thank you to everyone who chose Coast Mediation this year, shared feedback, and offered support along the way. It is genuinely appreciated! 💜

LinkedIn: 11/12/25

I’m starting to feel a bit like an impatient child waiting for Christmas… except what I’m waiting for is the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration New Child Maintenance Calculator and Accompanying Guidelines! 🎅 🧮

Curiosity got the better of me, so I reached out to the press office for an update.
See their reply below: January 2026 🤞

LinkedIn: 10/12/25

👷‍♀️ The Real Work of Mediation Starts Before Anyone Sits Down Together 👷‍♀️

This video outlines the initial phase from first conversations with each party to confidential pre-mediation meetings and how these steps set the stage for a productive and trauma-informed process.

LinkedIn: 08/12/25

A recent Irish family law decision granting access to a non-biological parent who helped raise two children born through international surrogacy highlights something those of us in mediation see every day:
👉 Families have evolved far faster than the legislation designed to support them.

In this case, the court recognised the applicant’s role as a co-parent:
he lived with the children, shared daily care, built a meaningful bond, and acted in loco parentis.

Despite not being a biological parent and despite strong opposition from the biological father the judge in this case relied on the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 to centre the children’s best interests and preserve that relationship.

This judgement reflects the realities of modern family life, but it also exposes the long-standing gaps:
🔹 Only biological fathers in surrogacy arrangements have automatic rights
🔹 Other intended parents must wait a minimum of two years before applying for guardianship
🔹 The 2015 Act has been doing a lot of the heavy lifting in the absence of surrogacy laws
🔹 Same-sex male couples remain particularly vulnerable to legal uncertainty

But change is (finally) on the horizon.
With the expected commencement of the Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Act, Ireland will see transformative shifts including:
✨ All intended parents will be able to apply for a parental order
✨ A new Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority will oversee surrogacy and assisted reproduction
✨ Children born through AHR will be better protected through clearer, modernised frameworks.

From a mediation perspective, these developments are very positive. Clearer legislation can reduce disputes, provide safer and more transparent processes for intended parents and surrogates, and most importantly-enhance the emotional security of children. The law is starting to align with the realities of modern family life, which is welcome news for all professionals working in family transition and conflict resolution.

📖 Read the case here: https://lnkd.in/dSn4mAaF

LinkedIn: 04/12/25

🎄 All I Want for Christmas Is… Less Website Work! 🎄
(But Santa keeps saying that’s not his department.)

When I first started my business, I was utterly unclear about how to market myself or what my “offering” actually was. Then I joined the Local Enterprise Offices Start Your Own Business course, where the brilliant Marie Wiseman carefully helped me realise that I needed to stop trying to sell everything to everyone.

Fast-forward, and one big revelation later:
I was actually running two very different businesses under one roof:
👩‍💼 HR/Workplace Services and Mediation and
👨‍👩‍👧Family Mediation/ Parent Mentoring Services.

So naturally, I thought: “No problem, I’ll just make two websites. How hard could it be?” So with the help of my endlessly patient husband / unofficial IT Manager / Chief Technical Firefighter / General Dogsbody Andrew O’Leary, I now have two separate websites under the same domain (https://coastservices.ie) and it has been great for clarity, communication, and connecting with the right clients.

But what I didn’t realise was that I had also signed up for:
◾ Double the updates
◾Double the “optimisation”
◾Double the “Who broke this page? Oh… it was me.”
◾Double the “Your site is not being crawled” (Whatever that is!!)
◾Double the emotional support required after every plugin update

So yes, all I want for Christmas is s fewer website emergencies. (Or at least someone to explain indexing in a way that my brain will accept!)

Until then, I’ll be here, doing what every small business owner does best:
✨ Pretending I understand my analytics ✨
Here’s to smoother systems, less broken links and websites that behave themselves in 2026!

LinkedIn: 26/11/25

🧠 The Mediation Mindset 🧠

Many clients come to mediation hoping to resolve old pain.
But mediation isn’t designed to fix the past, it’s designed to help people build better futures.
This video explains the mindset shift that helps to make mediation work.

LinkedIn: 24/11/25

At the recent Law Society of Ireland Family and Child Law Conference, researchers from UCC and TCD (Aisling Parkes, Kenneth Burns and simone mccaughren) presented important new findings on the in camera rule in family law proceedings. Their work sheds much-needed light on an area that has long been debated within the Irish family justice system.

📹 The in camera (privacy) rule is intended to protect the identities and private information of families involved in family law cases. However, despite its importance, there is significant uncertainty about how the rule actually operates in practice regarding its scope, its limitations, and its implications for families and professionals.

The team from University College Cork and Trinity College Dublin shared valuable insights gathered from parents, judges, and professionals across the country. Some of the key issues highlighted included:

💡 The rule often creates a sense of secrecy rather than meaningful privacy.
💡 A large majority of people want to see change in how the rule operates.
💡 Many families and practitioners feel unsure about the boundaries of the rule and how it should be applied.

These findings echo what many working in the system have felt for a long time, that greater clarity and consistency are urgently needed.

It was encouraging to hear that the team’s work has already gained momentum within the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration with tangible progress now underway including:

1. The Minister for Justice has welcomed the findings and committed to improving how the rule operates.
2. A new Family Law Reporting Project is being established to support clearer, more informed reporting.
3. Officials have been tasked with bringing forward policy proposals for reform by the end of the year.

LinkedIn: 19/11/25

Developments for Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Services in Ireland

At the recent Law Society of Ireland Child and Family Conference, Patrick Bergin (Director of the Guardian ad Litem National Service) and Joy McGlynn (Head of the Guardian ad Litem National Service) shared an insightful update on the new Guardian ad Litem National Service.

For over 30 years, the Child Care Act 1991 left key gaps around the role, status, and qualifications of GALs. After years of consultation and legislative revision, the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022 now provides the clarity and structure that were long overdue.

What’s Changing:
🔹 Presumption of GAL appointment in District Court cases; mandatory in Special Care
🔹 Child’s views must be heard and given appropriate weight
🔹 Best interests now clearly defined in law
🔹 Statutory GAL functions set out, including reporting, advising the court, and accessing information

The new GAL National Service will employ and authorise GALs, provide training and supervision, ensure legal advice and representation where required and embed transparency, accountability, and best practice.

⚖️ A central theme from the conference was the balance between protecting GAL independence and introducing much-needed oversight and consistency.
Some practitioners have noted potential implications for independence with the move to a national body, while others highlight opportunities for greater quality assurance, clearer standards, improved collaboration, and a more consistent child-centred framework ⚖️

This marks an important development in child-care law in Ireland, and the focus going forward will be on monitoring how the new structures interact with and support the independent voice of the child.

LinkedIn: 17/11/25

I had a fantastic day of learning at the Law Society of Ireland Family and Child Law Conference 2025 last Friday. The calibre of speakers was exceptional, with each contributing real insight, progress, and depth to the evolving landscape of family and child law in Ireland.

Over the coming days, I’ll be sharing some short summaries of the presentations to highlight the momentum and innovation happening across the sector, including contributions from:

💡 Gerard Durcan SC (Case Review Update 2025)
💡 Joy McGlynn & Patrick Bergin (National Guardian Ad Litem Service)
💡 Mark Dunne (Head of Digital, Courts Service)
💡 Aisling Parkes & Kenneth Burns & simone mccaughren (UCC & TCD: Operation of the In Camera Rule in Family Law Proceedings)
💡 Keith Walsh SC (Developments in Domestic Violence & Civil Restraining Orders)
💡 Ms. Justice Marie Baker & Claire Collins SC (A Retrospective on Divorce Law in Ireland)
💡 Antoinette Moriarty Psychological Safety & Wellbeing for Family Law Practitioners)

🔥 But today, I’m still thinking about the inspiring opening address delivered by High Court Judge Ms Justice Nuala Jackson. Her emphasis on the expanding role of mediation and ADR in family law both in Ireland and internationally was energising to hear.

She highlighted how mediation is becoming more embedded in the family law system, how judges are increasingly seeing the benefit of ADR being fully explored, and how collaboration between litigation and mediation can produce far more constructive, future-focused outcomes for families. Most of all, she spoke about the powerful impact when individuals themselves have meaningful involvement in shaping their own agreements.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For those of us supporting families, whether through mediation or litigation, it was a powerful reminder that there is a growing space for us to work together. When both disciplines collaborate, we can offer families clearer pathways, better support, and more sustainable outcomes during some of the most challenging transitions of their lives. 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦

LinkedIn: 14/11/25

On the train to Dublin this morning for the Law Society of Ireland Family and Child Law Conference 2025 for what looks like a very valuable day of learning, with insights on the in camera rule, developments in domestic violence law, psychological safety for practitioners, the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022, and more.

En route, I’m fine-tuning the content for my Parenting When Separated course, which I’ll be working through with parents next week who are navigating high-conflict situations and active family law proceedings. For the day that is in it, one slide keeps coming back to me:

💛 What do Children need during Parental Separation? 💛

*Stability and predictability
*A loving relationship with both parents
*Freedom from adult conflict
*Age-appropriate information
*Reassurance it isn’t their fault
*Parents who can work together in their interests

So simple and yet so often lost in the complexity and stress of the legal process. A timely reminder this morning for me of what truly matters in the work that I do at Coast Mediation and Consultancy

LinkedIn: 11/11/25

👣 Small Thoughtful (Trauma Informed) Steps in Mediation 👣

The term “Trauma-Informed” is everywhere right now but in practice, it’s often the simplest things that make the biggest difference.

🚶‍➡️ 🚶 Yesterday I facilitated the first joint mediation session between two employees who’ve been in conflict for over a year. Before we even began, I focused on the small, practical steps that could help create psychological safety for both which is the foundation for any meaningful dialogue.

🚪 As with all my in-person mediations, I offered both parties the option of separate arrival and leaving times so they wouldn’t have to sit together in the waiting area. (Something that can cause a lot of anxiety when relationships are strained.)

🤳 One person took me up on it, so we agreed they’d wait nearby until I phoned. I met each person at reception separately, walked them to the room, and made sure both could leave without stress or awkwardness.

It sounds simple but for people in a hyper-vigilant, high-conflict state, these details matter deeply.

👣 Being trauma-informed isn’t about big theory or buzzwords. It’s about slowing things down, thoughtfully considering your approach, creating a sense of safety, and making sure people feel seen and supported every step of the way. 👣

LinkedIn: 07/11/25

✨ What a night! ✨

We had a brilliant evening at the Business Post Leadership Awards surrounded by some of Ireland’s most inspiring (and seriously impressive) leaders and innovators.

Sadly, I didn’t bring home the Emerging Leader award, that well-deserved honour went to the amazing Lauren McKenna from Positive Carbon 👏

But let’s be honest… I still won big:
🏆 A night out with my wonderful husband (a rare occurrence these days!)
🏆 An evening filled with great company, laughter, and a few imposter-syndrome moments
🏆 And some much-needed inspiration to keep pushing forward

The words that really stuck with me came from Lifetime Achievement Award winner Sean O’ Driscoll of Roaring Waters Capital:

“The harder you work, the luckier you get.” – Gary Player

So here’s to working hard, getting lucky, and keeping at it, even when the trophy shelf stays empty 😉

LinkedIn: 04/11/25

💛 Life Story Books 💛

A big part of my work as a Parenting Mentor involves helping parents support their children as they adjust to life after separation or divorce.

This is often one of the most challenging aspects for families, particularly where there is ongoing conflict, where children have additional needs, or where parents simply aren’t sure how to explain what’s happening in a way that feels safe and age-appropriate.

One gentle and effective strategy I often use is to create a Life Story Book with families.
It’s essentially a simple, child-focused story about the family’s transition, written in language that matches the child’s developmental stage and emotional understanding.

The process helps parents find shared language, reduce confusion for the child, and provide a tangible story they can revisit whenever they need reassurance or clarity.
It’s a small tool with a big impact — helping children make sense of change in a way that feels consistent, calm, and supported by both parents.
Here’s a template I often use to guide this process 👇

https://lnkd.in/ekyB6V8T

LinkedIn: 31/10/25

🪬 Understanding Proper Provision in Family Law 🪬

When the Court decides what’s fair in a divorce or judicial separation, it must ensure that “proper provision” is made for both spouses. This doesn’t always mean a 50/50 split, it means a fair outcome based on each person’s circumstances. The Court looks at each person’s income, needs, health, contributions, and future circumstances to ensure both spouses can move forward with stability and dignity.

A recent High Court decision by Mr Justice Jordan highlights this principle clearly. In that case, a couple had signed a Deed of Separation claiming to settle all financial matters. Later, the wife revealed she had been misled into signing it, believing it was a temporary step.

The Court found the deed was a sham, noting the husband’s lack of financial transparency and the wife’s health and financial vulnerability.
Judge Jordan stressed that:
“If the deed is bogus, the court cannot ignore that fact.”

The Court ultimately:
✅ Transferred the family home to the wife
✅ Granted her a permanent injunction protecting her use of the property
✅ Allowed her to seek spousal maintenance in future

📖 Read the case here: https://lnkd.in/eahYVG5H

For family law professionals, this case is a timely reminder:
➡️ Agreements must be built on honesty, full disclosure, and genuine consent — only then can they reflect true proper provision.

LinkedIn: 23/10/25

💜 New Service Announcement: Court-Directed Parent Mentoring 💜

I’m delighted to share a new service now available at Coast Mediation and Consultancy – Parent Mentoring for those going through the Court process.

This service is designed to support parents already engaged in the family law system who need guidance and structure as they navigate new parenting arrangements such as custody and access. The aim is to help parents lay firm foundations for cooperative, child-centred co-parenting into the future.

Drawing on my experience as an Accredited Family Mediator and CORU – Regulating Health + Social Care Professionals CORU Registered Social Care Worker, along with previous roles in Barnardos, Tusla, and Children’s Disability Teams, I work with parents to:

✨ Strengthen communication
✨ Develop practical and sustainable co-parenting routines
✨ Keep the focus firmly on their child’s wellbeing

The courts are increasingly recognising the value of early, practical supports that reduce conflict and help families adjust positively to change. This new service complements the legal process by offering a trauma-informed, solution-focused space where parents can make real, lasting progress.

If you’d like to learn more or think this could support your clients or practice, please feel free to get in touch.

LinkedIn: 15/10/25

🎢 As someone fairly new to self-employment, I’ll admit that marketing myself has been a whole new learning curve! 🎢

It’s one thing to do the work you love, it’s another to tell the world about it in a way that feels authentic (and doesn’t make you cringe while doing it 😅).

Because mediation is such a confidential and sensitive process, traditional marketing tools, like Google reviews, aren’t really an option. So, I’ve recently started inviting clients to share anonymous feedback through a short SurveyMonkey questionnaire after we close their mediation process.
I’ve been genuinely delighted (and relieved!) by the feedback so far, and I’m using it to keep improving and shaping my service to better meet clients’ needs.

🤔 I am still learning, still adapting but really enjoying the process along the way. 💬✨ Coast Mediation and Consultancy

LinkedIn: 14/10/25

💡 I am really enjoying The Bar of Ireland Family Law Podcast Series hosted by Ms. Justice Marie Baker and Claire Collins SC. It’s a brilliant deep dive into real-life Superior Court cases on topics like divorce, judicial separation, asset division, and maintenance — with clear insights into how these principles play out in practice. 💡

The spousal maintenance episode stood out, exploring a Court of Appeal decision where a time-limited order was replaced by one with no end date (subject to review at pension age).

With the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration new child maintenance calculator on the horizon, I also found the episodes on child maintenance particularly interesting — especially discussions around lifestyle choices, financial decisions, and even whether an apprentice might be considered a dependant during training.

( ⏳ Still waiting for this to be released! on the 01/10/25, Jim O’Callaghan TD announced: “Child Maintenance Guidelines with an accompanying calculator that will give parents an estimate of how much child maintenance they should pay or receive for their children will be launched in the coming weeks by my department” ⏳ )

Fascinating listening for anyone working in or around family law and mediation. 🎧 https://lnkd.in/e4mx_Vxa.

LinkedIn: 08/10/25

Just back from delivering a very enjoyable training session with my former colleagues at the Citizens Information Phone Service, the national service based in Blackrock, Cork!

It was such a pleasure to reconnect with such a dedicated and highly skilled team of information officers — professionals who field thousands of calls every day from people across Ireland, providing guidance on a wide range of social, legal, employment and health-related issues(and much more!)

Knowing the depth of their expertise, I designed a detailed session focused on the types of queries callers may have about mediation — what it is, how it works, and where people can access it.

During the session, we ran a few straw polls (see Mentimeter results below 👇) to explore what members of the public tend to ask about mediation. This sparked some fascinating discussions and offered valuable insights into public awareness and perceptions of mediation in Ireland.

In preparing for the training, I also took the opportunity to explore the wide range of mediation services available in Ireland, including:
The Family Mediation Service Legal Aid Board
The Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) Residential Tenancies Board (RTB)
The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) Workplace Relations Commission
The Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO)
The Injuries Resolution Board Injuries Resolution Board
And, of course, the network of private mediators through the Mediators’ Institute of Ireland The Mediators’ Institute of Ireland

Overall, the session was very well received, and I came away with renewed appreciation for the critical work of Citizens Information Board and for the growing interest in mediation as a constructive way to resolve disputes.

LinkedIn: 05/10/25

What an amazing few days for me and my business Coast Mediation and Consultancy (also me!) at The Mediators’ Institute of Ireland Annual Conference at the Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport ! I didnt get to all sessions (I was too busy chatting!) so my brief sumary doesnt cover eveything!

LinkedIn: 03/10/25

Delighted to be at the The Mediators’ Institute of Ireland Conference for the next few days!! The cameras are out already 😎

LinkedIn: 02/10/25

All set up at my kitchen table HQ for this afternoon’s webinar with Erin International Ireland!

The Roy Keane preparations have been implemented and the camera angles have been checked, background curated, and yes, the strategically placed dirty dishes are just out of sight.

Being able to deliver training on a topic I’m genuinely passionate about feels like such a privilege…even if Future Roisín will be less thrilled about the dishes!

LinkedIn: 24/09/25

Here I am presenting to my empty living room—praying no one rings the doorbell or looks in the window!

I’m gearing up for an important presentation on Friday. Public speaking doesn’t come naturally to me, so I channel my inner Roy Keane: “Fail to prepare, prepare to fail.” Lots of preparation, plenty of practice… and maybe a few chats with the couch for good measure. Wish me luck!

LinkedIn: 18/09/25

🫴 Supporting Clients Through Mediation 🫴

One of the most important parts of my work is making sure clients feel fully supported and informed throughout the mediation process. Clarity and guidance are key to my approach.

To ensure this, I always follow up within 24–48 hours after a session with a written summary. This includes the updates discussed, the matters agreed, and the next steps. Clients then have clear, real-time information to reflect on between sessions.

This approach not only brings transparency but also gives clients the chance to review and process discussion points at their own pace – and to seek legal advice where needed.

For me, mediation isn’t just about the sessions themselves – it’s about creating a safe, structured process where people know exactly where they stand and where they’re going.

https://coastservices.ie/

LinkedIn: 16/09/25

I am delighted to hear that the long-awaited Child Maintenance Calculator is about to be launched following last year’s Review of the Enforcement of Child Maintenance Orders and as part of the Family Justice Strategy 2022–2025.

Up to now, parents in Ireland have had no clear, consistent guidelines to help them agree fair child maintenance arrangements. This often created stress, uncertainty, and conflict at an already difficult time.

The introduction of voluntary guidelines and an accessible calculator will be a large step forward and key benefits include:

🔍 Transparency –There will be clear expectations around payments.
⚖️ Fairness – Amounts will be based on income, care provided, and other key factors such as other dependants.
🚸 Support for children – By ensuring children’s needs remain the central focus.
ℹ️ Guidance for parents – Helping parents make private arrangements more confidently and constructively without the need for the Courts to rule on matters.

In my role as a family mediator, I look forward to seeing how this new tool will bring greater clarity and reassurance to families navigating separation.

📖 Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eD3K5VFq

LinkedIn: 12/09/25

💡 One of the most common questions clients ask in mediation is:

👉 “Will our agreement be legally binding?”

The answer isn’t always straightforward. The legal standing of a mediation settlement can vary depending on the type of mediation involved. Best practice also differs — and it’s important to understand how these practices align with the Mediation Act of 2017.

For example, the Law Society of Ireland advises solicitors to make it clear that mediation agreements in relation to separation and divorce are not legally binding until further legal steps are taken to give them binding effect.

To make this clearer, I’ve put together a simple flow chart showing the best practice approaches for different types of mediation settlements.

LinkedIn: 08/09/25

I’m really looking forward to attending The Mediators’ Institute of Ireland Annual Conference on the 3rd & 4th of October at the Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport

The line-up of speakers is exceptional.
Highlights for me include:
💫Jim O’Callaghan TDD, sharing his perspective on the role of mediation in resolving disputes in Ireland.
🔥 Hon. Ms Justice Marguerite Bolger, exploring the Family Justice Strategy and insights on ‘court-ordered’ mediation.
💫Brian Pennie, PhD, on the science and practice of staying present when it matters most — a vital skill for mediators, leaders, and anyone navigating complex human interactions.

I’m also delighted to be hosting a dedicated session for new mediators with Jill Robinson, focused on building networks and support systems for those new to the industry.

Most of all, I’m excited about two full days of connection, learning, and inspiration with hundreds of others who share a passion for mediation! The Mediators’ Institute of Ireland

🎟️ Read more and Get your tickets here: https://lnkd.in/e-h7my3R

LinkedIn: 03/09/25

💜 *Personal Post Alert* 💜

This morning on the train, travelling to meet new clients, I find myself reflecting on how grateful I am for the career I’ve discovered.

It’s almost two years since I left paid employment — not an easy decision and certainly not an easy time. I had just returned from maternity leave with four children, and my youngest two (then 1 and 2) were facing ongoing health issues requiring frequent hospital stays in Cork and Dublin.

At that point, the stress felt overwhelming. I believed I had no choice but to step away from the career I had worked so hard to build and focus entirely on my family. Thankfully, as things improved for the kids, I was able to slowly rebuild — and pursue something I truly care about by establishing Coast Mediation and Consultancy.

What has stood out most on this self-employment journey is the incredible support I’ve received — from friends, family, colleagues, and organisations like Local Enterprise Offices. Many of you (too many to tag!) have gone out of your way to share advice, open doors, and cheer me on, without expecting anything in return. I’m deeply grateful for that generosity.

If any of my connections here are thinking about starting a business — or are at the beginning of your own journey — please feel free to reach out. I’d be delighted to share my experience, what I’ve learned, and hopefully offer some encouragement along the way.

LinkedIn: 28/08/25

The Family Justice Strategy, 2022- 2025 has made further progress in recent days with the announcement by Jim O’Callaghan TD that the tender for the pilot Children’s Court Advocate programme has been advertised on the government e-tenders website.

📖 Read here: https://lnkd.in/eA8yTj5i

The 2 key objectives of the Pilot programme are to :

• Provide tailored, child-friendly information to help children to understand what is happening in the legal processes affecting them and what they can expect from the process. 🧒
• Create a structured and supported mechanism through which the child’s views are heard. 🗣️

The pilot will begin in Waterford City and Clonmel District Courts, covering all guardianship, custody, and access applications. A review after 18 months will determine whether, subject to funding, phase two can extend to Circuit Court divorce and judicial separation cases. The full pilot is expected to run for three years.

More information here ℹ️ : https://lnkd.in/eSDaeXkG

LinkedIn: 25/08/25

Its back to school again for me this September when I will study the Diploma in Family Law with Law Society of Ireland under the expert leadership of Riona Leahy .

This programme offers a comprehensive overview of recent developments in family law — from the Domestic Violence Act 2018 to the Family Courts Act 2024, which introduces a more efficient and user-friendly court structure. It also explores practical issues such as family breakdown, child custody, and the enforcement of orders abroad.

Looking forward to getting started, sharpening my expertise, and staying at the forefront of developments in family law to better serve clients through my business Coast Mediation and Consultancy. I am hoping it won’t take too long to dust off the cobwebs and get the brain firing on all cylinders again!

LinkedIn: 20/08/25

I came across this High Court judgment from June — a rare insight into how family law decisions are made in Ireland as very few cases are published in the media.

The divorce case involved the ordering of the sale of a €475,000 family home, with two-thirds of the proceeds awarded to the mother (who had primary care of the children) and one-third to the father. A court-appointed assessor also reported that the children were “very alive to the fraught relationship” between their parents and were exhausted by the conflict.

Beyond the legal outcome, what stands out is the hidden cost of litigation.

High Court proceedings — with legal teams, court time, and expert assessments — can easily consume tens of thousands of euro, reducing the resources available to families as they rebuild their lives.

As someone working in family mediation, cases like this are a reminder of the human and financial toll of prolonged conflict. While courts are vital, particularly where safety is at stake, many families benefit from resolving issues earlier and outside the courtroom — protecting both their children’s wellbeing and their future stability.

Read the case here: https://lnkd.in/eie3tf6z

LinkedIn: 16/08/25

I’m delighted to receive my recent registration from CORU and to bring my background and experience in Social Care into my work as a family and workplace mediator.

Although social care and mediation are distinct professions, CORU registration adds real value to my mediation practice by:

💢 Providing credibility and public trust through professional regulation and Garda vetting

💫 Strengthening safeguarding awareness and ethical standards

🪬 Bringing deep people-focused skills for handling sensitive, high-conflict situations

📚 Ensuring a commitment to continuous learning through required CPD

Mediation is about helping people find solutions in challenging times. A regulated social care background helps me do that with professional integrity, insight, and accountability.

Check the register here: www.coru.ie

Find out more: https://coastservices.ie

LinkedIn: 05/08/25

Separation and divorce can feel overwhelming — especially when you don’t know where to start.

There’s often a mix of emotion, stress, and uncertainty. People want to stay strong, keep things private, protect their children, and avoid making mistakes with their ex — all while trying to figure out what’s next.

As a mediator, I support individuals and couples through this challenging time by helping them make clear, calm, and fair decisions that are right for their unique situation.

Some of the key topics we cover include:

👶 How and when to talk to children about the separation, and how co-parenting will work

🏡 Deciding on future living arrangements and managing the transition

💶 Creating fair financial agreements for now and the future

📃 Navigating the division or management of shared assets

🧾 Addressing legal and succession planning concerns with clarity

These conversations create space for mutual understanding and practical planning — allowing both people to move forward with clarity, respect, and support.

If you or someone you know is facing a separation or divorce, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Learn more at https://coastservices.ie

LinkedIn: 29/07/25

👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Family Business Mediations 🏡 :

Family disputes involving a family business are a common thread in many of the mediations that I work with clients on.
The overlap of personal relationships and business roles can create deep entanglement — and when a crisis hits or change is on the horizon, long-standing dynamics can quickly spiral.

🛠️ Mediation offers a chance to pause, reset, and refocus.
It creates space for honest conversation, clarity of roles, and a renewed focus on what truly matters — both in the business and in the family.

Preserving a legacy shouldn’t come at the cost of losing the relationships that built it!

LinkedIn: 23/07/25

Yesterday’s report by Ken Foxe in The Irish Times on the Legal Aid Board‘s funding crisis paints a troubling picture for families navigating divorce, separation, and custody issues.

With staffing shortages, backlogs, and centre closures looming, families relying on the State system could face longer waits and greater uncertainty—often at times of acute personal stress. As the Legal Aid Board prioritises cases and reallocates resources, many people will be left without timely access to justice.

📖Read the report here: https://lnkd.in/eisKbavd

LinkedIn: 30/06/25

A recent High Court judgment has underscored both the challenges within the Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) system and the vital role mediation can play in resolving family disputes.

In a case involving an elderly woman with advanced dementia, the court upheld the validity of her EPA—executed in 2020—appointing two of her daughters as attorneys. This is despite other siblings expressing disagreement over how the EPA process was conducted and raising concerns about the suitability of the two attorneys chosen.

Mr Justice Barniville urged the family to prioritise their mother’s wellbeing over conflict, stating they would be “much better focusing their time and attention on their mother rather than fighting with each other.” He strongly recommended mediation, noting that earlier engagement could have avoided costly and divisive legal proceedings.

This case is a powerful reminder: when families face complex care decisions and legal structures like EPAs, mediation offers a path toward clarity, cooperation, and compassion.

📖 Read the case here:

https://lnkd.in/e2Bi5cGm

LinkedIn: 03/06/25

A big part of my work with separating couples mediation is supporting parents as they figure out access arrangements that work for their children – taking into account different ages, needs, and routines.
These conversations can be tough. Emotions are often high, and trust may be low. Throughout the process, I guide parents back to a central question: “What is in the best interests of your child?

I’ll often ask:
👶 “How might that schedule feel for your child?”
🏀 “Does it fit around their current activities and routines?”
💬 “Do you think your child wants regular time with both parents?”

My approach is always child-centred, while respecting the values and hopes both parents hold. The end goal is to develop a workable co-parenting relationship that supports everyone – especially the kids – now and into the future.

Every arrangement is different and works around the individual circumstances of the family. See below for demonstrative purposes 👇🏽

LinkedIn: 03/06/25

I’m pleased to share that all my mediation services are now fully available online — whether you’re navigating a family separation, resolving a workplace or commercial dispute, or working through the complexities of divorce.

With secure, confidential video sessions, clients can access support from the comfort of their own space — no travel, no stress, just professional guidance when it’s needed most.
🔹 Trauma-informed approach
🔹 Flexible scheduling
🔹 National and international access
🔹 Private, safe, and efficient
If you’re facing conflict and need a structured, respectful way forward — let’s connect.

LinkedIn: 27/05/25

Me & My Trusty Flip Chart 📜

You’ll never catch me heading to a mediation session without my portable flip chart – even if the venue guarantees there’ll be one on site. I’ve learned not to take chances! Having it with me is a small but significant part of the trauma-informed mediation practice I offer my clients.

Why the flip chart?

It allows me to clearly display a session schedule from the moment clients walk in. When people know what to expect, it helps reduce anxiety and creates a sense of structure and safety – especially in emotionally charged settings.

Other trauma-informed steps I take:
✔️ Asking clients how they prefer to communicate.
✔️ Sending clear, detailed session outlines in advance (by email or text – their choice).
✔️ Offering the option of separate arrival and departure times for clients, when needed.

Whether it’s families in conflict, couples navigating separation, or workplace disputes, entering mediation can be an incredibly challenging experience. That’s why every element of the process matters – and why I’m committed to providing a supportive, professional, and thoughtfully trauma-informed space.

LinkedIn: 19/05/25

I am starting the week on a high after attending The Bar of Ireland‘s Mediation: Making Commercial Sense event at the Dublin Dispute Resolution Centre (DDRC) on Friday.

💡 It was an inspiring and thought-provoking afternoon, showcasing the growing momentum behind mediation as a preferred — and in some jurisdictions, compulsory — first step before litigation. We heard from some of Ireland’s most experienced mediators including Mark Connaughton SC, Peggy O’Rourke SC, and Denise waldron, who shared their insights into what makes a mediator truly effective.

🦺 It was equally refreshing to hear the perspective of a regular mediation user, Rory Williams, CEO of Ronan Group Real Estate, who spoke candidly about what parties expect from the process and from mediators themselves.

🇮🇪 The panels were rich with contributions from senior figures in the Irish State and legal sector, including Attorney General Rossa Fanning , Donnacha O’Sullivan (Department of Justice), Ciarán Breen (State Claims Agency), Sylda Langford (WRC), Órla Kelly(Cantillons Solicitors), and Georgina Farren — each offering valuable insights into how mediation is evolving across sectors and specialties.

⚖️ The final panel offered a compelling judicial perspective, featuring Sir Geoffrey Vos MR (Head of Civil Justice in England and Wales), Mr. Justice David Barniville, Mr. Justice Paul Coffey, and Ms. Justice Sara Phelan. Their reflections underscored how courts here and abroad are increasingly embracing mediation — and signalling that Ireland may soon follow international examples where early mediation is a mandated step.

🤝 As a newly established mediator, I left the event both energised and encouraged by the calibre of discussion and the clear message: mediation is not only gaining traction — it’s becoming integral to the future of dispute resolution in Ireland. And to boot, I had the pleasure of meeting a number of lovely new connections too! Catherine Molloy, John Biggins, Austin Kenny Dr David Sharpe KC SC, Órla Kelly

LinkedIn: 06/05/25

👗 Skort Vs Shorts 🩳

As someone who spends a lot of time helping people navigate conflict in the workplace and as a keen athlete and mother of sport loving kids, I found myself deeply struck by what unfolded at the camogie semi-final last weekend.

Two teams — Kilkenny and Dublin — took a quiet but powerful stand. Instead of wearing the mandated skorts, they wore shorts. For them, it wasn’t just about uniform regulations. It was about comfort, autonomy, and being heard.

And when the response was to threaten cancelling the match or potentially sanctioning the players? That spoke volumes.

⚖️ In mediation, we see this all the time:

-When people feel dismissed, they resist.
-When organisations double down on rules without reflection, trust erodes.
-But when we stop, listen, and ask why — real change becomes possible.

This wasn’t just a protest about kit. It was a clear, calm call for choice. And I think it deserves to be heard — not punished.
If we can trust players to give their all on the pitch, surely we can trust them to decide what helps them perform their best.

💡 This is more than a moment in sport. It’s a lesson in leadership, listening, and change 💡

Read here: https://lnkd.in/dbd6GHZD

LinkedIn: 29/04/25

🗓️ On April 28, Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan chaired his first Family Justice Development Forum, with key updates on the reform of Ireland’s Family Law system.

Here are the main points:
📌 1. Transparency in Family Law
Research into the ‘in camera’ rule (privacy in family courts) shows a need for more openness while still protecting families’ identities.
A new Private Family Law Reporting Project is on the way to help the public understand the system better — without compromising privacy.

👧 2. Children at the Centre
Reforms aim to ensure children’s voices are heard in all relevant proceedings.
On the back of the Review of the Role of Expert Reports in Family Law Proceedings, Pilot projects are being launched to trial better ways to include children’s perspectives.

⚖️ 3. Efficient, Non-Adversarial Justice
Focus on early interventions, mediation, and clear information for families.
Encouraging a less adversarial, more child-focused system.

👨‍⚖️ 4. The Family Courts Act 2024
A major milestone in reform.
Implementation is underway, with input from across the sector.

👥 5. More Judicial Resources
24 new judges appointed in 2023, with more to follow — aiming for quicker, fairer access to justice.

💬 As a family mediator, I welcome these developments. A system that prioritises clarity, transparency, child welfare, and collaboration is long overdue.
Let’s keep the momentum going.

Read here: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-justice/press-releases/minister-jim-ocallaghan-hosts-family-justice-development-forum-and-outlines-his-intention-to-reform-in-camera-rule-in-family-law-proceedings/

LinkedIn: 24/04/25

The Legal Services Regulatory Authority (LSRA) has just released its first themed complaints report, focusing on Family Law — an area that accounts for 7% of all legal complaints. The report shares real-life case studies and valuable lessons aimed at improving practice and outcomes for all involved.
Key takeaways include:
🔹 The importance of clear, consistent communication from solicitors about case progressions and legal costs.
🔹 The need for clients to provide focused instructions and avoid excessive emails, which can inadvertently increase costs and impact the communication flow.
🔹 A reminder to all practitioners — including law firm partners — to prioritise wellbeing and access support to prevent burnout in this emotionally demanding area of work.

I found the Case Studies particularly engaging — they were presented in a clear and accessible way, making the key lessons easy to take on board.

💡 As a mediator specialising in family law, I welcome these insights. They reinforce the critical role of clear communication, mutual respect, and professional self-care in resolving family disputes constructively. 💡

LinkedIn: 10/04/25

💡 What does “Access” refer to in Family Law Proceedings? 💡

When families go through separation or major change, one of the most important questions becomes: how can children maintain meaningful relationships with the people who love them?

In family law, Access refers to the legal right for a child and an adult to spend time together, even if they no longer live under the same roof. This usually arises after separation or divorce, but it can apply to any situation where a relationship breaks down and one person still wishes to be part of a child’s life — this includes relatives or others with a close bond.

It’s important to note:
👭 Access is about contact and connection.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 It’s different from Custody, which is about who takes care of the child day-to-day.
🚸 And it’s different from Guardianship, which involves making decisions about the child’s upbringing.

Make sure to get in touch if I can be of further help: www.coastservices.ie

LinkedIn: 31/03/25

🚸 What is Guardianship? 🚸

Guardianship is the legal responsibility of a person to perform duties regarding a child’s upbringing and welfare. It also includes the right to make decisions about major areas of the child’s life.

For example, guardians have a duty to properly care for a child. They also have rights that may include decisions on:
1. Consent to medical treatment
2. What school the child attends
3. Passport applications and taking the child out of the country
4. The child’s religious upbringing

Guardianship ends when a child turns 18 years of age unless a guardian dies or is removed as a guardian before that.

LinkedIn: 25/03/25

💡 Understanding Custody: A Key Issue in Family Mediation 💡

🚸 Custody determines who is responsible for the day-to-day care of a child under 18, often arising during separation or divorce. It can be sole custody, where one parent has full responsibility, or joint custody, where both share caregiving duties.

⁉️ Did you know that in Ireland, an unmarried mother automatically has sole custody, while married parents share joint custody—even after divorce?

💡 Mediation offers a constructive way to navigate custody decisions, prioritising the child’s well-being while reducing conflict. Watch the video to learn more about how mediation can help, and feel free to reach out for support!

LinkedIn: 13/03/25

A great read on the impact of separation and divorce on grandparents—thank you, Dr Richard Hogan for your valuable insights.

This is a challenge I often see in mediation, as families struggle to navigate changing relationships. While the 👨‍👨‍👧‍👦 Children and Relationships Act 2015 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 allows grandparents and other family members to apply to the Courts for access to grandchildren, mediation provides a more supportive and collaborative approach. It helps families find solutions that prioritise the well-being of the children while preserving important and loving relationships.

https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/people/arid-41590477.html

LinkedIn: 11/03/25

🌟 It was a pleasure to deliver last Friday’s webinar on behalf of the Institute of Couples Therapy, in collaboration with Karen Murphy. I truly appreciated the chance to share insights into the family law system and the benefits of mediation, especially for separating and divorcing couples.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended and for the wonderful feedback—I’m so grateful for the opportunity!

https://lnkd.in/eMJWKmf7

LinkedIn: 28/02/25

👬 Cohabiting Couples & Legal Rights in Ireland 👭 👫

According to Census 2022, there are 176,956 cohabiting family “units” in Ireland. This represents 14% of all family types in Ireland.

Did you know that cohabiting couples do not have the same legal rights as married couples and civil partners? However, under the Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010, a financially dependent partner may apply for financial support after a breakup through the Redress Scheme for Cohabiting Couples

To qualify for redress:
✅ The couple must have lived together for at least five years, or two years if they have children.
✅ The applicant must prove financial dependency on their former partner.

If a court finds financial dependency, it can issue orders such as:
💰 Maintenance Orders
🏡 Property Adjustment orders
🔄 Pension Adjustment Orders

Dont hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries about this: www.coastservices.ie

LinkedIn: 26/02/25

Delighted to be presenting this webinar on behalf of the Institute of Couples Therapy next Friday the 7th of March!

💡 “We just need help communicating better.”
💡 “We don’t want things to get messy.”
💡 “We want to separate, but we don’t know how to do it the right way.”

As therapists, we hear these concerns all the time from couples navigating separation or co-parenting challenges. But when does therapy reach its limit—and when should mediation step in?

Many therapists aren’t sure how or when to introduce mediation as an option. This IACP-approved CPD webinar will give you the confidence to:
✔ Understand how mediation works & when it benefits your clients
✔ Navigate legal & financial considerations like parenting plans & asset division
✔ Support clients in making choiceful, informed decisions about their future
✔ Know your role as a therapist in this process

🔹 What Every Therapist Needs to Know About Mediation
📅 March 7, 2025 | ⏰ 12:00–2:00 PM
🎓 2 CPD Hours | Live & Recorded
💰 €25
📍 Book you ticket here: https://lnkd.in/eFUvHES5

➡ Learn how mediation can become an essential part of your therapeutic toolkit.

LinkedIn: 12/02/25

🗣️ Children’s Voices in Family Law Proceedings 🗣️

👨‍🎓 Having attended Conor O’Mahony and the School of Law UCC‘s excellent research presentation on Friday the 7th of February, I was intrigued about the state of affairs relating to a child’s right to have their views heard in custody, access and guardianship cases which they are the subject of.

👩‍⚖️ Article 42A.4.2° of the Irish Constitution provides that the views of children should be taken into account in court proceedings concerning guardianship, custody and access. In practice, however, it has become clear that the system requires some major amendments (which hopefully the Family Justice Strategy will bring!)

The main issues being:

🚨 The Regulation of Child Experts
🫨 The Availability of Child Experts
💰 The Costs of Expert Reports (usually bourne by the family)
⁉️ The lack of consistency in Courts ascertaining children’s views
📚 The qualifications/training of judges
🛑 The waiting lists for Court proceedings

Read the UCC report here:
https://lnkd.in/etaitTSV

LinkedIn: 05/02/25

📢 First-Time Buyer Schemes for Separated & Divorced Applicants 📢

Did you know that both the First Home Scheme (https://lnkd.in/eSBhs_zn) and the Local Authority Home Loan ( https://lnkd.in/eYf-D3PD) accept applications from those who previously owned a home but have divested their interest due to separation or divorce?

Each scheme has its own eligibility criteria and income thresholds, so be sure to check the details.
If you need further support, feel free to reach out at www.coastservices.ie.

LinkedIn: 16/01/25

❤️‍🩹 The death of a young parent is an immeasurable tragedy that leaves a profound and lasting impact on families, particularly young children. Throughout my career in Barnardos and as a family mediator, I have encountered numerous families grappling with the ripple effects of such a loss. One of the most challenging issues that often arises in these circumstances is the conflict between the surviving parent and extended family members over maintaining relationships with the deceased parent’s relatives, such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

💔 These situations are further complicated when relationships with the deceased parent’s family were strained before the loss. The lack of a strong foundation for these connections can make it exceedingly difficult to sustain ongoing contact, causing additional pain and a sense of loss for everyone involved. Navigating these emotionally charged dynamics requires sensitivity, understanding, and often, skilled intervention to help families find common ground and prioritise the well-being of the children amidst their grief.

🫂 The Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 recognises the importance of meaningful relationships between children and their extended family, providing a legal framework for relatives to pursue contact when it serves the child’s best interests. However, mediation offers a valuable alternative to litigation, allowing families to explore solutions collaboratively and repair strained relationships in a constructive and supportive environment. By choosing mediation, families can work towards rebuilding bonds and ensuring a more stable and connected future for the children.

Please get in touch if I can be of support to you or someone you know: www.coastservices.ie

(Posted by Roisin Mc Daid on LinkedIn, 16/01/25, click here)

LinkedIn: 08/01/25

📣 A Family Mediator’s Perspective on the Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt Divorce Case 📣

The protracted and highly publicised divorce between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt highlights the challenges of navigating complex family disputes in the celebrity world. There are also important learnings in this case for the everyday person who is separating/divorcing.

In this case, Mediation could have provided significant benefits, including:

⌚ Time Efficiency
The eight-year timeline for resolving their disputes far exceeded the length of their marriage. Mediation could have expedited resolution by focusing on collaborative problem-solving, reducing the emotional and financial toll on both parties.

🔏 Preservation of Privacy
Although the couple utilised private judges, mediation inherently offers a more discreet environment, protecting sensitive family matters from public scrutiny.

🫶 Reduced Emotional Toll
The drawn-out legal battle reportedly massively affected both the couple and their six children and involved accusations of child abuse and unfair asset division. Mediation fosters communication and understanding, which could have minimised the emotional toll and promoted a more amicable separation.

🕊️ Focus on Collaboration
The ongoing disputes over custody and the vineyard reflect entrenched conflict. Mediation encourages cooperative decision-making, potentially preventing the escalation of bitterness and the “vitriolic hatred” cited by Pitt.

💸 Cost-Effectiveness
With significant legal resources expended over nearly a decade, mediation could have reduced financial strain while still providing professional guidance and support.

🪡 Tailored Solutions
Mediation allows for creative and customised agreements that reflect the unique dynamics of the family, from co-parenting arrangements to property division, in a way that litigation often cannot.

By choosing mediation, Jolie and Pitt might have avoided years of unresolved disputes, fostering a more harmonious transition for themselves and their six children. Mediation emphasises resolution over contention, offering a path forward that prioritises future cooperation, particularly important where there are children involved.
Read case here: https://lnkd.in/ekwpqdYy

LinkedIn: 06/01/25

Family disputes, whether stemming from divorce, separation, or communication breakdowns within the wider family unit, can feel overwhelming and stressful for everyone involved. Many people often turn to legal avenues immediately, missing the opportunity to resolve issues in a more informal and collaborative way:

🔥 Family Mediation 🔥

With both personal and professional experience in mediation, family support and the family law courts, I bring a wealth of knowledge and understanding to help my clients navigate these challenging situations. Choosing mediation can be a constructive step toward finding common ground and rebuilding relationships.

If you or someone you know is considering mediation as a way forward in 2025, I’m here to guide and support you through the process. Please get in touch to learn more about how I can help!

www.coastservices.ie

LinkedIn: 29/11/24

Trauma-Informed Mediation Practice is a concept that is very important in my practice through my background in Family Support Services and Child Protection. While the term might sound complex, at its core, it’s a straightforward approach centered on genuinely putting clients first.

I’ve put together this short animation that highlights the key principles I incorporate into my work at Coast Mediation and Consultancy. Take a look and let me know your thoughts!

http://coastservices.ie