Insolvency and Debt Restructuring Solicitors

At Browne Legal, we understand that financial distress can affect anyone. Whether due to redundancy, illness, or an unexpected business downturn, the pressure of unmanageable debt can be overwhelming. As a dedicated insolvency law firm in Ireland, we provide structured legal solutions that restore control and stability.

Led by Fergal Browne, a recognised authority in personal insolvency and debt restructuring law, our insolvency team in Carlow has represented clients for over twenty years in matters before the Circuit Court and High Court.

We assist individuals, homeowners, and business owners with all forms of insolvency and restructuring, from Debt Settlement Arrangements (DSA) and Personal Insolvency Arrangements (PIA) to bankruptcy applications and complex restructuring assignments under Irish law.

Why Choose Browne Legal for Filing Insolvency?

We combine deep technical understanding with practical, results-focused advice. Our approach is measured, confidential, and firmly rooted in Irish insolvency law. Clients choose Browne Legal for:

  • Proven expertise in personal insolvency and corporate restructuring.
  • Clear, solution-driven legal advice under the Personal Insolvency Act 2012 (as amended).
  • Strong representation before the High Court and Circuit Court in insolvency proceedings.
  • Skilled negotiation with lenders and Vulture Capital Companies to protect homes and investment properties.
  • Tailored Debt Settlement and Restructuring Solicitor services are aligned with each client’s financial situation.

As one of Ireland’s few specialist insolvency law firms outside Dublin, we are uniquely placed to offer personal, accessible, and authoritative legal representation throughout Carlow, Leinster, and nationwide.

Our Insolvency and Restructuring Legal Services

1. Personal Insolvency Arrangements (PIA)

A Personal Insolvency Arrangement allows individuals to restructure secured and unsecured debts while retaining ownership of their family home. We ensure each PIA is realistic, compliant with Irish law, and sustainable in practice.

2. Debt Settlement Arrangements (DSA)

Our solicitors assist clients in developing Debt Settlement Arrangements that consolidate or write down unsecured debts such as loans, overdrafts, or credit cards. Each arrangement is carefully structured to achieve long-term solvency.

3. Bankruptcy Applications

When bankruptcy becomes unavoidable, our insolvency solicitors in Ireland guide clients through every stage from the filing of the petition to discharge. We ensure full compliance with statutory obligations and protect client interests during post-bankruptcy reviews.

4. Debt Restructuring and Negotiation

Our Debt Settlement and Restructuring Solicitors act for borrowers in discussions with banks, credit servicers, and Vulture Capital Companies, often achieving substantial write-downs and avoiding repossession. We also advise on voluntary schemes of arrangements and schemes of arrangement involving distressed loans.

5. Court Representation and Appeals

We represent clients before the High Court and Circuit Court in appeals against creditor refusals of proposed arrangements, relying on the court’s jurisdiction under the amended Personal Insolvency Act. Our focus is always on equitable treatment and long-term recovery.

6. Corporate and Director-Level Insolvency

While our primary focus is personal insolvency, our firm also advises company directors and shareholders on corporate recovery and corporate restructuring. We provide guidance on:

  • Voluntary liquidation and directors’ statutory duties.
  • Receivership, examinership, and SCARP (Small Company Administrative Rescue Process).
  • Personal guarantees, cross-border insolvency, and multi-jurisdictional restructuring assignments.

We also act in cross-border restructuring cases under Chapter 15 and cross-border insolvency regulations, offering guidance to clients with international exposure.

Legislative Authority and Ongoing Reform

Browne Legal is more than an insolvency law firm; it is a recognised voice in shaping insolvency reform in Ireland.

In 2015, Fergal Browne was formally approached by the Government to advise on reform of the Personal Insolvency Act 2012. His submissions directly influenced legislative changes, including:

  • Reducing the bankruptcy term from three years to one year.
  • Introducing a court appeals procedure for rejected insolvency arrangements.

These reforms are now central to modern insolvency law in Ireland. Fergal continues to advocate for further debtor protection, including reducing PIA terms from six years to three and eliminating lifetime bankruptcy records for discharged individuals.

Our contribution to Irish insolvency policy distinguishes Browne Legal as one of Ireland’s leading insolvency practitioners for expertise, reform advocacy, and technical excellence.

Request A Consultation

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Meet Experts at our Insolvency & Debt Settlement Law Firm

Fergal Browne B.Comm LL.B

A highly experienced solicitor with over two decades in practice. Fergal leads in Personal Insolvency, Debt Restructuring, Probate, Conveyancing and Personal Injury Litigation. He is also a qualified Mediator and Arbitrator, known for sound judgement and resolution-driven legal strategies.

Martin Hayden BA (HONS) LL.M

Martin specialises in Debt Recovery, Litigation and both residential and commercial Conveyancing. With a strong agricultural background, he brings sector-informed insight to rural and commercial matters. He is settlement-focused, practical and accredited in Mediation for efficient dispute resolution.

Defending Clients Against Vulture Capital Companies

The rise of Vulture Capital Companies has created new challenges for borrowers in financial difficulty. These entities often acquire distressed loan portfolios from major banks, leading to aggressive enforcement actions.

At Browne Legal, we represent clients in High Court and Circuit Court proceedings against such entities, achieving negotiated settlements that preserve family homes and assets.

We continue to advocate for a fair, transparent system of debt enforcement that protects both borrowers and the integrity of Irish insolvency law.

Our experience includes complex multi-jurisdictional negotiations involving cross-border loan assignments and investment funds handling Irish loan portfolios.

Recognised Experience and Professional Distinction

Specialist Expertise:

A dedicated insolvency department led by Fergal Browne, practising exclusively in this field since 2003.

Legislative Influence:

Consultation and reform involvement with the Irish Government, leading to major statutory changes.

Advocacy:

Continuous campaign for improved debtor protections and insolvency fairness.

Client Results:

Proven record in negotiating with banks and Vulture Funds, often securing property retention and debt relief.

Trusted Authority:

Recognised as one of the few insolvency law firms in Ireland combining long-term practice with active legislative engagement.

Get in Touch with us Today!

If you are facing financial distress, creditor pressure, or complex debt restructuring, professional advice is essential.

Contact Browne Legal today to discuss your case in confidence. Our experienced insolvency solicitors will guide you through your options and help you regain financial stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Legal Insolvency Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between personal insolvency and bankruptcy?

Personal insolvency offers structured solutions such as PIA and DSA without resorting to bankruptcy. Bankruptcy remains a last-resort process where debt cannot otherwise be managed.

Can I retain my family home under a Personal Insolvency Arrangement?

In most circumstances, yes. A PIA is specifically designed to protect the family home while balancing creditor interests.

Do I need to be in arrears to apply for personal insolvency?

Not always. Our insolvency solicitors in Ireland can review your financial situation and determine eligibility under the Personal Insolvency Act 2012.

Do you handle cross-border insolvency or restructuring?

Yes. We regularly advise on cross-border insolvency and global restructuring involving multi-jurisdictional assets, investment funds, and foreign proceedings under Irish law.