International Family Law Solicitors

International divorce cases can be complex, particularly when deciding which country’s courts should deal with proceedings. The choice of jurisdiction can significantly affect the division of finances, property, and arrangements for children.

Our international divorce solicitors, led by Layla Babadi, can help you determine where proceedings should be issued, advise on the potential outcomes in different jurisdictions, and represent you in proceedings both in the UK and alongside trusted overseas lawyers where necessary.

Where children are involved, cross-border disputes can be particularly stressful and urgent. International Children Law includes issues such as child abduction, relocation, and cross-border contact. Decisions must always prioritise the welfare of the child, but navigating different legal systems can make matters complicated.

Our team has extensive experience handling these sensitive cases and can work swiftly to protect children’s best interests, acting as one of the region’s leading teams in international children law.

Reaching a fair financial settlement can be more complex where assets are located in multiple countries. Questions often arise about which jurisdiction has authority, how assets should be valued, and whether foreign orders will be enforceable in the UK.

Our international family lawyers provide strategic advice on managing property portfolios, pensions, business interests, and investments held overseas, ensuring that settlements are fair and legally enforceable, and are in the best interests of all parties.

Couples who marry abroad or whose relationship involves a foreign element may face difficulties when seeking a divorce in the UK. The key questions are usually whether the marriage is recognised in the UK and whether the English courts have jurisdiction to dissolve it.

We can advise on recognition of foreign marriages, guide you through the divorce process, and address any associated financial or children matters.

Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are increasingly used in cross-border relationships. However, recognition of these agreements can vary between countries.

Our solicitors advise on drafting and reviewing international agreements, ensuring they are as robust as possible in both the UK and abroad. We can also provide guidance if you are seeking to rely on or challenge an agreement signed in another country.

Forced marriage cases often involve international elements, where one party is pressured to marry abroad or where issues arise around recognition of the marriage in the UK.

Our solicitors provide sensitive and urgent advice to protect individuals at risk. We can apply for Forced Marriage Protection Orders and work alongside other agencies to ensure safety and security.

Domestic abuse that spans across borders can be particularly challenging, especially where one partner lives abroad or when protective orders need to be enforced outside the UK.

Our team can promptly secure protective measures, working with international partners where necessary, to ensure your safety and wellbeing at all stages of proceedings.

International family disputes do not always have to result in lengthy and costly litigation. Mediation and alternative dispute resolution can be effective in resolving cross-border disputes amicably, particularly where children are involved.

We encourage non-court solutions wherever possible and have experience coordinating international mediation that ensures agreements are practical and legally recognised in multiple jurisdictions.