International divorce expertise

If you are a British national living aboard or a foreign national living in England or Wales and looking to get divorced, you need to consider the country in which your divorce or dissolution proceedings will  take place. 

Different countries ( jurisdictions ) have different divorce laws and proceedings and choosing the most appropriate place to have your case heard is very important.

Every jurisdiction has a different approach to the division of property and other assets. They also have different attitudes towards maintenance, pensions and trust. It is therefore essential that you choose a jurisdiction which is right for you.

You may be able to start your divorce proceedings in the English legal system if:

You and your partner are residents in England and Wales

You and your partner have lived in England or Wales for six months

Either you or your partner is domiciled in England or Wales  ( the legal term for the country you consider your ‘roots’ are or where you have your permanent home)

However, it is not always as simple as the above to establish which country has jurisdiction in an individual case. The country where divorce proceedings are issued first can affect which court has jurisdiction. Even if your divorce is processed in England and Wales, you may have to deal with multiple foreign systems to settle overseas assets and childcare arrangements.

We offer an online service for all of our lawyers and offices. Appointments can easily be conducted by video conferencing.

Solicitors can be assigned to work with you from all of our office locations based on what is the most convenient for you.