The building started life as the Dolphin Hotel, an establishment of early Dublin hostelry, and one of the first to be quoted on the Irish Stock Exchange. Michael Nugent who bought the building when it was a dilapidated restaurant, allegedly engaged in a famous feud with John Jameson regarding the retail of the latter’s whiskey in the hotel.
Dolphin House underwent a much-needed €4 million refurbishment in 2008 and by that time was being used as a court building for family law proceedings in the District Court. The refurbishment brought a number of changes aimed at maintaining the dignity and privacy of those involved in family law proceedings including five enlarged courtrooms, separate areas for family law applications/enquiries and payments, and an information screen.
Dolphin House is supported by the Dublin District Family Law Office.