A General Register Office (GRO) Search provides certified searches of Ireland’s official civil registration records, including births, deaths, marriages, civil partnerships, adoptions, and stillbirths. This service is used by solicitors, conveyancers, probate practitioners, and individuals to establish legal identity, family relationships, and authority in property, probate, and succession matters across Ireland.
Civil registration in Ireland commenced in 1864, with earlier registration of non-Roman Catholic marriages from 1845. Ellis & Ellis attend in person at the GRO research facility in Werburgh Street, Dublin 2, to conduct accurate and historically informed searches of these records.
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Ellis & Ellis GRO Searches are conducted against the official indices held by the General Register Office and include:
Certified copies of birth, death, marriage, civil partnership, adoption, or stillbirth certificates can be obtained upon request.
GRO searches provide legally recognised proof of identity, family connection, and life events. In a legal context, these records are frequently important for:
Learn more about Fitness & Probity Searches with our expert explainer.
Use this search if your client is:
Request a General Register Office Search through the Ellis & Ellis client portal, or contact our team for guidance on required details and certificate options.
What is the General Register Office (GRO)?
The GRO is the State body responsible for maintaining Ireland’s civil registration records of births, deaths, marriages, civil partnerships, adoptions, and stillbirths.
What years do GRO records cover?
Births and deaths from 1864 onwards, marriages from 1845 onwards, and adoptions from 1953 onwards, subject to jurisdiction.
Are searches conducted digitally or in person?
Ellis & Ellis conduct searches in person at the GRO research facility to ensure accuracy and historical context.
What information is needed to carry out a search?
Requirements vary by record type but typically include name, year, and county, with additional details improving accuracy.
Can certificates be supplied?
Yes. Certified copies of GRO records can be obtained upon request.
Why are GRO searches important for conveyancing?
They help establish authority to deal with property, identify Legal Personal Representatives, and bridge gaps in historical title records.
Are GRO searches only for solicitors?
No. They are used by solicitors, professionals, and private individuals, including those undertaking genealogical research.
Why use Ellis & Ellis for GRO searches?
Over 136 years of legal search expertise, manual record access, certified results, and Professional Indemnity Cover of €10 million.
