Which Country? Which Laws? We'll Help You Navigate.

International divorce is complex. Which country's courts handle it? Whose laws apply? How do you enforce a judgment in another country? DivorcePro helps you organize your international case and understand jurisdiction rules.

Jurisdiction: Which Country Can Divorce You?

This matters. Multiple countries might claim jurisdiction. Generally:

• Where you're Domiciled: Where you intend to permanently live (often best option)
• Where You're Resident: Where you currently live (more lenient rules)
• Where You Married: Some countries allow divorce where marriage occurred
• Where the Defendant Lives: Where your spouse currently resides
• Shared Citizenship: Some countries let citizens divorce there, even if abroad

Examples: Where to File?

• Married in UK, Lived in US 10 years, Spouse in Canada: File in US (domicile) - US courts will likely have jurisdiction
• Married in Brazil, Both still in Brazil, Want US residency: File in Brazil first (faster), then enforce in US
• Married in Canada, Now one in UK, one in Australia: File where you're domiciled OR where Defendant lives

Key Laws & Conventions

• Hague Convention (1996): 55+ countries recognize custody/support orders if jurisdiction rules followed
• Brussels Recast (EU): EU countries recognize each other's divorces
• Reciprocal Enforcement: Some countries have treaties to enforce US judgments (and vice versa)
• Asset Location Matters: File where assets are (or where you can access them)

Critical Decisions: Where to File?

Consider:

• Cost: Which country's attorneys are more affordable?
• Speed: Some countries have faster divorce timelines (UK: 4-6 months, US: 6-12 months)
• Asset Laws: Which country's property laws favor you?
• Custody Laws: Which country's custody rules are best for your situation?
• Enforcement: Can you enforce a judgment in both countries?

What DivorcePro Helps With

• Organize international assets (which country holds what)
• Document citizenship, residency, and domicile status
• Track international bank accounts and properties
• Identify which jurisdiction is optimal for your case
• Prepare for consultations with international family law attorneys

Critical Step: Get Specialized Counsel

You need a lawyer who knows both countries' laws. Cost higher, but worth it:

• International family law attorney in your country
• Attorney in spouse's country (if contested)
• Possibly a family law mediator with international experience

What DivorcePro Helps You With

• Organize your financial documents and timeline
• Identify hidden assets and red flags
• Understand your state's divorce laws
• Prepare for mediation or court
• Build a stronger negotiation strategy

Organize Your International Case

Borders complicate divorce. Let DivorcePro help you organize everything.

Start International Divorce Prep - $49

Bring your completed case preparation package to your international family law attorney.