Consent & Sexual Exploitation Solicitor Ireland
Defending Consent & Exploitation Allegations in Ireland
Experienced, confidential representation where the legal issues of consent and coercion require precise, specialist handling.
Our Support
Acting for individuals facing sexual offence allegations where consent, coercion, or exploitation is the central legal issue. These cases require precise and detailed engagement with Irish law on consent. If you have been accused of a sexual offence where consent or exploitation is at the heart of the allegation, confidential specialist legal advice is available immediately.
Our Specialisations
Understanding Consent and Exploitation in Irish Sexual Offence Law
The law on consent in Ireland was significantly reformed and clarified by the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017. Understanding precisely what the prosecution must prove, and where the defence can engage, requires detailed knowledge of this legislation and how it is applied by the courts.
Consent cases — where the prosecution alleges that the alleged victim did not consent to the sexual act in question
Intoxication and consent — where alcohol or substances affected the alleged victim's capacity to consent
Coercive control — where an allegation of sexual offending arises in the context of a controlling or abusive relationship
Sexual exploitation — where a person is alleged to have taken advantage of another's vulnerability, impaired capacity, or dependent position
Every allegation must be assessed on its own facts. Early legal advice allows for a clearer understanding of your position before decisions are made.
Approach
What to Do if You Are Accused of a Sexual Offence Involving Consent or Exploitation
Consent cases are among the most legally complex category of sexual offence allegation. They turn not on physical evidence alone but on the detailed assessment of what each person understood, believed, and communicated in a specific situation. If you have been accused of a sexual offence and consent is the central issue, specialist legal advice from the outset is essential.
Always remember:
You are entitled to legal advice before speaking to Gardaí or responding to any allegation
You are entitled to have a solicitor present during any Garda interview
Prior communications, messages, or other evidence relevant to consent should be preserved and provided to your solicitor immediately
You have the right to choose your own criminal defence solicitor at every stage
We approach each case individually, without assumption. Preparation and clarity are central to effective defence in this area.
Our Specialisations
Legal Support at Every Stage
Before a Garda Interview - Know Your Rights
If you are invited to attend a Garda interview in a consent or exploitation case, what you say about your understanding of consent, your communications with the complainant, and the specific circumstances of the alleged conduct will be central to the prosecution’s investigation. Preparation is essential.
What we provide:
Explaining your legal rights under Irish law, including the right to silence and what it means in a consent case specifically
Advising on how Gardaí are likely to approach interview questioning in consent allegations
Assessing whether engaging with specific questions is appropriate in the circumstances of your case
Preparing you for questioning
Attending the interview where required
Early advice protects your position before formal steps are taken.
During a Garda Investigation
Consent and exploitation investigations in Ireland are conducted by An Garda Síochána and typically involve a detailed statement from the complainant, Garda interviews with the accused, and a thorough review of communications and other digital evidence relevant to the question of consent.
We may assist by:
Advising before and during Garda interviews
Reviewing Garda disclosures and complainant statements as they become available — with particular focus on consent-related issues
Providing guidance on communications, including preserving any messages, social media content, or other material relevant to the consent question
Assessing evidential developments
Offering clear direction on next steps at every stage of the investigation
Investigative stages can feel uncertain and stressful. Measured legal guidance can provide structure during this period.
If Charges Are Brought
Consent cases at trial are often decided on the basis of credibility, the detail of each party’s account, and the available evidence bearing on what was communicated and understood. If charges are brought in a consent or exploitation case, detailed preparation is essential, including thorough review of all communications between the parties and careful examination of the complainant’s account over time.
Our role is to:
Review prosecution material carefully
Identify all factual and legal issues bearing on the consent question
Prepare a structured defence strategy built around the specific features of the consent or exploitation allegation
Provide steady representation as the matter progresses
Preparing for Court proceedings
Every case requires close attention to detail and disciplined preparation.
No two cases are identical.
Early Advice Matters
When to Contact Us
The earlier you seek legal advice, the better we can protect your interests
Before Garda Interview
If you have been contacted by Gardaí or believe you may be, seek advice immediately. We can explain your rights, attend interviews with you, and ensure you understand the process.
During Investigation
If an investigation is ongoing, structured legal support can help reduce uncertainty and protect your position.
After Charges Filed
Once charges are filed, we provide comprehensive representation including bail applications, disclosure review, and full court advocacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Consent?
A person cannot consent to a sexual act if they:
are unconscious or asleep.
incapable of consenting due to the effects of alcohol or drugs.
have a physical disability that prevents her from communicating whether he or she agrees to the act.
are misinformed as to the identity of any other person involved in the act.
or are forced, threatened with force, or genuinely afraid of force being used against them or against another person.
Request a Consultation
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Need Immediate Legal Advice?
Don’t wait. Early legal advice can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.