International Divorce

These days it isn’t just senior business executives or celebrity movie stars who have interests overseas.  It is not uncommon for couples to get married abroad, live or work abroad or have property overseas.  When these relationships breakdown, you need specialist advice about how to proceed.

Unsurprisingly, family law is not consistent throughout the world.  Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to issue divorce proceedings in another country.  We call this “forum shopping”.  You may find that you and your spouse cannot agree which country is appropriate and there may be significant financial advantages to choosing one  over another.

For example, the financial outcome on divorce is very different in England and Scotland.  In England and Wales pre-marriage assets can still be shared on divorce.  In Scotland these do not form part of the property to be divided except for the family home.  In England and Wales inheritances and gifts can be shared on divorce particularly where there is no other alternative and the assets are limited.  In Scotland these are generally excluded.

In England and Wales, the court can order spousal maintenance for a fixed term or until retirement, death or remarriage (known as “joint lives”).  In Scotland maintenance will last for a maximum of 3 years.  The differences between two jurisdictions is astonishing considering our links in so many other ways.  It tends to be the same throughout the world.

Our family team have in depth knowledge about how family law works in other countries.  As well as having expertise in-house, we have forged relationships with a large number of overseas lawyers we call upon.

We can help with disputes about where to file for divorce, making financial claims in multiple countries, property and other assets and child abduction.  Our experience in international cases ensures the process is as simple as possible and means we can fully support you in making difficult choices.  Kim Beatson is a fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL) with considerable expertise in this area.  She also specialises in the international relocation of children.

For more information contact her on 020 7940 4011 or by email to kim.beatson@anthonygold.co.uk.

* Disclaimer: The information on the Anthony Gold website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such. It is provided without any representations or warranties, express or implied.*