International divorce solicitors

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Our team of international divorce solicitors provide expert legal advice and representation for clients facing complex divorce and family law issues across multiple jurisdictions.

We offer a range of services to help clients navigate the challenges of international divorce, including asset division, child custody, and prenuptial agreements.

If you have married a non-UK national or you live abroad as a married couple there could be international issues to consider on the breakdown of your marriage. Where the divorce takes place is critical, as other countries’ laws about the grounds for divorce, children, property and finance may not favour you. It could assist your case to be the first to issue the divorce proceedings, so you will have to move fast to ensure you get the right advise so that your case is heard in the country most appropriate for you.

At Moore Barlow, we are experts in family law and international divorce. We will, provide you with the specialist advice you need and react quickly to secure the results you want. We understand that these situations can require empathy and sensitivity, due to their unique and personal nature, which is why our expert family law team will provide you with a legal service bespoke to your situation.

Joanna Farrands

Joanna Farrands

Partner | Family

01483 543223

What is an international divorce?

International divorce refers to the process of dissolving a marriage between two individuals who are from different countries, or who reside in different countries. This type of divorce can be particularly complex due to the legal differences between countries, and may require the involvement of multiple courts and legal systems.

Why you might need help for an international divorce

If you or your spouse/civil partner live in England or Wales and one of you is national of or domiciled in another country, then you may need to consider where you can issue your divorce proceedings and you will need expert advice to assist as that decision can have many ramifications. If you are both living abroad temporarily but are habitually resident in England or Wales or domiciled here you may also need to consider where your divorce proceedings can be issued.

How does international divorce work?

The circumstances of your international divorce will be entirely based on which country it is taking place in and the laws that apply to divorce there. It can vary greatly if the divorce takes place in the UK, within the EU, or in a country outside of the EU.

At Moore Barlow, we have an experienced team of family lawyers who will provide you with expert advice and the support of an international network of lawyers, helping you navigate the process that applies to you and your marriage.

Do I need an international divorce lawyer?

Whether you are the party issuing divorce proceedings or the recipient in a divorce where there is an international element, it’s vital to ensure that you get expert legal advice as soon as possible to protect your interests and those of your children. You should seek advice promptly before decisions are made.

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Start an online enquiry by completing our short questionnaire.

How much does a divorce with an international element cost?

The cost of international divorce proceedings can vary greatly, depending on the countries involved and complexity of the case. At Moore Barlow, we have a number of contacts with renowned and recommended lawyers in many other countries who would work alongside us and we can provide you with guidance on their fees at the very beginning of proceedings.

How to find the right international divorce lawyers?

If you’re looking for legal advice about an international divorce, Moore Barlow Solicitors are ideally placed to offer expert help and support with our offices in LondonRichmondSouthamptonGuildfordLymington and Woking and clients both nationwide and global. We are specialists in international family law, including international family disputes, divorces and separations, so we can offer years of experience to benefit your case. We are recommended by Legal 500, the independent legal directory, as an “excellent, proactive and responsive practice.”

If you require legal advice or help regarding an international divorce, or any other queries related to international family law, contact the Moore Barlow team today.

We are here to help

Start an online enquiry by completing our short questionnaire.

When does divorce come before the wedding?

Kate and David’s daughter was getting married that summer.

But Kate and David, mid-divorce, were adamant they would not be found in the same room. Until one of our lawyers stepped in, showing that ‘happily divorced’ was an option, should they want it.

How much does a divorce with an international element cost?

The cost of international divorce proceedings can vary greatly, depending on the countries involved and complexity of the case. At Moore Barlow, we have a number of contacts with renowned and recommended lawyers in many other countries who would work alongside us and we can provide you with guidance on their fees at the very beginning of proceedings.

How to find the right international divorce lawyers?

If you’re looking for legal advice about an international divorce, Moore Barlow Solicitors are ideally placed to offer expert help and support with our offices in LondonRichmondSouthamptonGuildfordLymington and Woking and clients both nationwide and global. We are specialists in international family law, including international family disputes, divorces and separations, so we can offer years of experience to benefit your case. We are recommended by Legal 500, the independent legal directory, as an “excellent, proactive and responsive practice.”

If you require legal advice or help regarding an international divorce, or any other queries related to international family law, contact the Moore Barlow team today.

We are here to help

Start an online enquiry by completing our short questionnaire.

Contact our family team

Frequently asked questions

Is a foreign divorce valid in the UK?

Yes, a foreign divorce is generally recognized as valid in the UK as long as it was obtained legally in the country where it took place and meets certain requirements set by UK law. The specific requirements depend on the jurisdiction where the divorce was granted.

No, you do not have to get divorced in the same country you got married. You can file for divorce in a different country as long as you meet the residency requirements and follow the legal processes of that particular country.

The process for filing an international divorce generally involves identifying the appropriate jurisdiction, meeting residency requirements, hiring local attorneys, and submitting the necessary documents to the foreign court. It may also require compliance with international treaties or conventions. Involved parties should seek legal advice and guidance to navigate the specific procedures and requirements of the jurisdictions involved.

Yes, you can still get a divorce if your spouse is in a different country. However, the process may be more complex and involve additional steps such as coordinating with legal representatives in both countries and addressing any jurisdictional issues. It is advisable to consult with an attorney who specialises in international divorce cases.

The division of assets in an international divorce depends on various factors such as the involved jurisdictions, applicable laws, prenuptial agreements, and negotiations between the parties. The assets may be divided through court proceedings or by mutual agreement, taking into account considerations like the length of the marriage, financial contributions, and the needs of each spouse.

Custody arrangements can become complex when parents live in different countries. In such cases, the parents may need to negotiate and establish a custody agreement that takes into account the best interests of the child. If no agreement can be reached, they may need to seek legal assistance to determine custody through the courts in their respective countries.

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