An Iraqi businessman could end up in prison after a family judge ruled that he had defied court orders.
Following the breakdown of their marriage, the 75 year-old’s Japanese wife began divorce proceedings in an English court. The husband is currently believed to be in Portugal, and has attempted to have the divorce heard in court there. He hopes that he will be able to secure a more favourable settlement in Portugal, according to a report from The Times.
The businessman is estimated to have assets worth more than £250 million. However, he did not fully disclose the extent of his wealth and property during the divorce proceedings, despite two previous orders to do so.
Mr Justice Mostyn said that the man had been “defiant” in his refusal to hand over his financial information. The courts “should take an adamantine approach” to those who do not comply with court orders, the judge added.
The man’s estranged wife had applied to the High Court for her husband to be held in contempt of court as a result of his persistent refusals. Mr Justice Mostyn granted her application and approved a European Arrest Warrant for the man, who now faces the prospect of nine months in prison if he returns to the UK.
The judge also ordered the husband to pay more than £15,000 to cover his wife’s legal bills.
“Mr Justice Mostyn granted her application and approved a European Arrest Warrant for the man, who now faces the prospect of nine months in prison if he returns to the UK.”
Yes, and if the turkeys vote for Christmas they face the prospect of ending up in the pot, and the one is as likely as the other, isn’t it?
If he’s arrested on a European warrant he might not have any choice in the matter of returning to the UK or not.
With money like that he’ll go to ground somewhere where the warrant won’t reach.
Hold back the money and the courts will unleash the wrath of god on you. Hold back the kids and alienate the father and the courts will turn a blind eye. Its not about the best interests of children, it’s all about money in the family courts.