The legal definition of parental responsibility is “all the rights, duties, powers, responsibilities and authorities which by law a parent of a child has in relation to the child and the child’s property”. This means that parents are...
M
Maintenance
A sum of money awarded by the Court to be paid by one spouse to another upon divorce. Also known as ‘periodical payments’.
Maintenance pending suit
A temporary order for maintenance made within divorce proceedings until Decree Absolute is granted.
Matrimonial home
The house in which a husband and wife live together as a married couple.
Mediation
A process of resolving disputes between parties with the assistance of an independent third party (mediator). The aim is to assist the parties in finding a mutually acceptable resolution. If mediation is unsuccessful, Court proceedings can be initiated.
Mortgage
A loan of money advanced to purchase a property. The mortgage is security for the loan that a lender makes to the borrower.
