Cross-border divorce & family matters
Discreet legal advice for family matters spanning multiple jurisdictions, including divorce, children, financial arrangements and the recognition of court orders.
Discuss this matter
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Consider the family’s position across the relevant jurisdictions
A family matter involving more than one country requires attention to jurisdiction, applicable law and the practical effect of any agreement or order. Nationality, residence, marriage records and the location of children or assets may all matter.
The UAE’s personal-status and civil frameworks have different scopes. Advice should identify the relevant regime before drawing conclusions about divorce, financial obligations, custody or guardianship. Existing proceedings in another country also require careful consideration.
How the firm can assist
The firm can review the circumstances, explain the legal issues and support a considered approach to negotiation or proceedings. Where local rights of audience are required, the appropriate representation must be separately confirmed.
- Map the countries, proceedings and orders affecting the family.
- Review proposed financial and parenting arrangements and their practical implementation.
- Coordinate cross-border documentation and appropriately authorised local counsel.
- Marriage and family-status records and countries of residence.
- Existing agreements, court orders or notices.
- Immediate concerns, deadlines and the broad asset position.
An initial outline is enough. Detailed records can follow through a process agreed with the firm.
Questions clients often ask
Does the place of marriage determine every legal issue?
No. Jurisdiction and applicable law require an assessment of the wider facts and the relevant legal framework. One connecting factor rarely answers every question.
What should I do if there is an urgent hearing or travel concern?
Mention the deadline at the first enquiry so that the need for prompt local assistance can be assessed. Do not assume that an initial message suspends any procedural deadline.
Define the mandate
Clarify your objectives, the jurisdictions involved and any immediate deadline.
Review the legal position
Examine the relevant documents and identify the decisions requiring advice.
Agree the next steps
Set out the work, professional responsibilities and practical sequence.
Experience with a personal point of contact
Hyam El Hachem is an Attorney at Law with the Beirut Bar Association. Following her training at Awada Tyan Law Firm, she established her own firm in 1996 and expanded her practice to the UAE in 2005.
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