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Strong Enforcement Of The Hague Convention In International Custody Cases

The Hague Convention is a treaty that often affects families facing international child custody disputes. The Convention was created to protect children by designing an international procedure for their prompt return to their country of habitual residence so issues regarding child custody can be resolved by their local courts. In the United States the Hague Convention is implemented under the International Child Abduction Remedies Act (ICARA), 42 USC 11601,et.seq.

At The Manely Firm, P.C., our international family law lawyers are familiar with the provisions of the Hague Convention. Even though this international law often adds an extra layer of complexity to international family law cases, we use more than a decade of experience handling international child custody cases to come well prepared to address whatever challenges you may face.

Unparalleled Representation With Extensive Experience

Attorney Michael E. Manely is the only all family law attorney in the United States to secure a unanimous decision for his client from the U.S. Supreme Court (see Chafin v. Chafin , 133 S. Ct. 1017 (2013)). He is the only all family law attorney in the southeast to argue an international family law case before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Michael is often in the position of advising other attorneys on the implications of the Hague Convention and ICARA and has appeared as an expert witness on the subject in state superior court.

Addressing International Kidnapping Under The Hague Convention

The number of international parental abductions is growing drastically. According to the U.S. Department of State, in 2009 alone there were 1,135 outgoing and 324 incoming Hague Convention cases. Each of these cases involved a situation where one parent sought to relocate with his or her children without the knowledge or consent of the other parent.

If you are a left-behind parent and would like to seek return of your children under the Hague Convention, reach out to our firm. As your dedicated legal team, we will help you with the following:

  • Locating your child: We will identify the best resources available to help you find your child.
  • Filing your case in the proper jurisdiction: Once we know where your child is, we can determine if that country is a member to the Hague Convention and what the best jurisdiction is for the case to be heard.
  • Advocating on your behalf at all stages of the process: We will represent your child custody rights and interests at all times throughout this process.

It is important to keep in mind that Hague Convention cases can be complex and time-consuming. Our experienced international child custody lawyers will do everything we can to defeat any defenses raised by the other parent and effectively fight for your rights.

Assert Your Rights And Fight To See Your Children Again

If you have questions about the process behind the Hague Convention, or if you would like to pursue an international child abduction or custody claim, contact The Manely Firm, P.C., to speak with one of our experienced international family law attorneys. Call us toll free at 866-687-8561 or send us a message to schedule an initial consultation.