All Family Law, All Around the WorldSM

Properly Dividing Assets And Liabilities In International Divorces

A central component of the divorce process is property distribution. When couples own property or financial holdings in other countries, a number of special considerations arise:

  • Which country will have jurisdiction over the property?
  • Will the other nation recognize and enforce a U.S. court order dividing the property?
  • Are there any hidden assets or offshore accounts that must be uncovered and documented?
  • Are there significant assets that need to be properly valuated?

These and countless other issues can immensely complicate the case.

Successfully navigating these issues requires knowledge and experience in international family law. Without competent legal guidance from an attorney who understands this niche area of law, you could forfeit important rights and lose out on the property and finances you deserve to keep.

Extensive International Family Law Experience

The international family law practice at The Manely Firm, P.C., stands on a strong foundation of almost two decades of experience. We have successfully resolved international family law disputes on nearly every continent around the world. Our founding attorney, Michael E. Manely, has argued and won an international family law case before the United States Supreme Court, see Chafin v. Chafin, 133 S. Ct. 1017.

Our Legal Team Understands That Knowledge Is Power

We draw on in-depth knowledge of the legal intricacies in this field of law to empower clients to make informed decisions. Even during the initial consultation, you can expect to come away with a clear explanation of your rights and options and a strategic, step-by-step game plan for how to proceed.

When Divorce Crosses International Boundaries

Whenever a couple owns property in two different nations, international family law concerns are implicated. Determining which country has jurisdiction over the property — that is, the power to determine how it will be divided and under which nation’s laws — is critical to anticipating the outcome. Generally, the jurisdiction depends on the type of property:

  • Real property such as vacation homes and investment properties are usually subject to the laws and jurisdiction of the country in which the property is located.
  • Personalty (personal property) and financial holdings are usually subject to the laws and jurisdiction of the country in which the divorce proceeding is filed.

Even when U.S. courts have jurisdiction over offshore property, a secondary legal hurdle often arises in enforcing the judgment abroad. Our lawyers have extensive experience enforcing domestic court orders in foreign courts. We maintain a network of trusted attorneys around the world to facilitate the process.

Schedule A Consultation With Our Sophisticated Legal Team

To schedule a consultation, contact us online or call 866-687-8561. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, and with offices in Marietta, Lawrenceville and Savannah, our international family law attorneys represent clients throughout Georgia and worldwide.