Ireland has historically had a low rate of violent crime, it is, however, increasing, and there have been a limited number of incidents in which foreigners and tourists have been victims of assault. There is a high incidence of petty crime, mostly theft, burglary, and purse snatching in urban and tourist areas.

Irish law is based on Common Law. The legal profession is divided into solicitors and barristers. Solicitors deal with legal business outside the courts such as transfer of land ownership, administration of the assets of deceased persons, and formation of limited companies. In the higher courts, cases are normally conducted by barristers who are either junior or senior counsel. Barristers are advised by solicitors.