Getting a Divorce Abroad
You’re considering or anticipating a divorce, but there’s one problem – you, your spouse, or both of you are currently living abroad. Perhaps you are staying long-term in a foreign country for school, or your spouse is living abroad for work. Whatever the reason may be, one or both of you will not be returning to the United States for some time, but you want to end your marriage. Now what?
First, you may consider contacting an experienced divorce attorney in the state in which the marriage was enacted. A divorce lawyer can advise you on the legal process of divorce and related matters, such as child custody and property division, and having an American divorce lawyer can help to legitimize a foreign divorce. For assistance with your divorce, contact the experienced Austin divorce attorneys Slater, Kennon & Pugh Ltd.LLP today at 512-472-2431.
Is a Foreign Divorce Recognized in the U.S.?
In the United States, divorce is managed at the state level. States do recognize foreign divorces provided that certain conditions are met. Most importantly, both parties must be informed of and consent to the divorce in order for it to be legitimate. Also, usually at least one spouse must be legally residing in the foreign country where the divorce is conducted when it is initiated. As long as these conditions are met, the divorce is recognized by all states in the U.S. as being valid.
If you and your spouse get a divorce abroad but neither of you is legally residing in the foreign country, for example while you are on vacation, states will most likely rule the divorce to be invalid. Typically one or both spouses must be living abroad on a long-term basis to have the foreign divorce recognized in the U.S.
Why You May Need a Divorce Lawyer
A divorce lawyer can help ensure that you meet the legal requirements of your state and of the country where the divorce is being performed. Divorce can be a very complex process, and it can be much more difficult if one spouse is absent abroad. Like a domestic divorce, it is likely in your best interest to consult with a lawyer who can advise you and help you fight for child custody, child support, alimony, property division, and other important divorce-related issues.
Contact Us
For assistance with your foreign divorce case, don’t hesitate to contact the experienced Austin divorce lawyers of Slater, Kennon & Pugh Ltd.LLP today at 512-472-2431.