Applying for full release of funds
Once someone under eighteen who has been awarded money in a personal injury case turns eighteen, they are able to access the money. To do this they must apply to the accountants office of the court.
Applying to the Accountant of The Courts of Justice
Once the person has turned eighteen they can apply directly to the accountants office. You must complete a personal application form.
The name on the application must match the name on the court order and birth certificate. If they do not match, you will have to make an application to the court to amend the name. This will have additional costs.
Once you have completed the application in full and included all documents on the checklist, you will need to sign the form in front of a witness.
More information on the Accountant of The Courts of Justice >
You must return the application by post to:
The Courts Service, Accountant's Office, 3rd Floor, Phoenix House, 15/24 Phoenix Street North Smithfield Dublin 7.
Once the accountant's office receives your completed application and documents, they will process your request and release your funds.
A solicitor can also apply on your behalf, they may charge a fee to complete the application.
Applying for part payment of funds
The 'next friend' or a solicitor can apply to the court for the partial release of funds held for someone under eighteen's personal benefit. This can be done after the court case ends and before the minor turns eighteen. The court usually only approves these payments for expenses beyond normal day-to-day costs.
Applying to the district court and circuit court for part payment
The 'next friend' must file an ex-parte application and sworn affidavit in the court office. The sworn affidavit sets out the reasons for applying for the early release of funds.
There is €15 fee to submit your application in the District Court and the fee to submit your application in the Circuit Court is €60.
The court office will let you know when your application will be heard. You will attend court on this date and the judge will hear the reasons for the withdrawal of funds. If the judge agrees to the request, the court office will forward the order to the courts accountant's office and they will release the funds to you as set out in the court order.
Applying to the High Court for part payment
The 'next friend' must file an ex-parte application and sworn affidavit to the Master of the High Court. The sworn affidavit sets out the reasons for applying for the early release of funds.
The fee to submit your application in the High Court is €60.
The Master's office will review your application and will make a decision on whether or not to release funds. If further information is required you may have to attend their office. If they agree to the request the court office will forward the order to the courts accountant's office. They will release the funds to you as set out in the court order.
Withdrawal Fees
A fee may be payable to the Exchequer for part or final payments of your funds.
If your award was made in the High Court, a fee of €1.15 per €100 applies (the first €100 is exempt). The total fee due will not exceed €1,200. This will be deducted from your award by the accountant's office. If your award was made in the District Court or Circuit Court, there is no fee payable.
For further information you can contact the accountant's office of the court.
