What is an international family lawyer?

In all these cases, your situation falls under international family law and requires the assistance of a lawyer experienced in this field.

International family law governs family situations with an international element. This element may concern:

• the nationality or residence of one of the spouses or of the child,
• the location of property,
• the place of marriage or separation,
• or a situation involving the cross-border relocation of children.

Family law is predominantly national, particularly for cultural reasons. This leads to the coexistence of legal systems that are sometimes very different. An international family lawyer is both a legal translator and a strategist, capable of navigating between several legal systems. They analyze your situation in several possible jurisdictions (place of residence, nationality, location of assets, children’s schooling, etc.) and, with you and the help of a foreign colleague, develop a comprehensive international strategy, advising you on:

• the most favorable jurisdiction in which to file a claim (divorce, children’s residence, division of property, maintenance, parental child abduction);
• the practical consequences of a move or of proceedings initiated abroad;
• the best way to protect your children or your assets in several countries;
• the procedures for serving, recognizing and enforcing your agreement or decision in the various countries involved.

This requires excellent knowledge of foreign legal systems, as well as of the social and cultural realities specific to each country. A good international lawyer works in coordination with foreign colleagues and is part of numerous international networks.

The lawyer will also advise you, upstream, on the matrimonial choices to be made in the event of a planned union or expatriation. They will also advise you, downstream, on international procedural aspects (service of documents, deadlines, translations, enforcement of decisions). In an international divorce, they develop a tailor-made strategy by analyzing your situation, identifying the most favorable jurisdiction and coordinating actions with foreign colleagues to defend your rights and those of your children.

Maître Gaëtan Escudey practices international family law. He supports you from the very first steps in international family law matters, working with you to build a strategy suited to your situation, drawing on his expertise and his international network.

This general information does not replace a consultation: each situation requires individual assessment.