International Family Mediation and Cross-Border Family Law Support
When relationships span different countries, separation can feel legally and emotionally complex. Questions about jurisdiction, domicile, and where discussions should take place can quickly add pressure to an already difficult time.
Our international divorce solicitors focus on mediation first. We help couples resolve divorce and separation constructively, providing clear advice under English law while encouraging practical, child-focused solutions without unnecessary court proceedings.
Through structured online mediation, we support international families wherever they are based, helping you move forward with clarity, dignity and confidence.
International Family Law Process
Increasingly there is an international element to all areas of family law. There are more relationships where the couple are from different countries. Also, individuals and couples have opportunities to work abroad, with children then being born in a country that is not the country of origin for either parent.
If the relationship ends it is complicated to decide in which country the divorce or application about the children should be started – this is called the jurisdiction. Sometimes there needs to be legal advice obtained from another jurisdiction to find the order that is available in that country.
For example: one parent wishes to return to their country of origin with the children and the parent remaining in the UK wants to make sure they can have a mirror of the UK order, so they can continue to have a relationship with their child.
Dispute resolution is still possible, even if one or both of the couple live out of the UK. All the dispute resolution options (mediation, collaborative law and arbitration) can be used. Either one or both of the couple can use videoconferencing or dates can be fixed when both are in the UK.
Get started online today – as your international divorce solicitors, we are here to help you move forward with confidence. Our clear, strategic advice and carefully structured agreements help provide clarity, certainty, and peace of mind.
Get started online today – as your international divorce solicitors, we are here to help you move forward with confidence. Our clear, strategic advice and carefully structured agreements help provide clarity, certainty, and peace of mind.
International Family Law: A Case Study
Problem
Two cohabitees had a young child who was under one year old when the couple separated. The mother could not accept that the child should be with the father (my client) for anything other than one hour at a time and certainly not overnight, despite the fact he worked in paediatric medicine. The mother was seeking to return to Spain with the child which meant my client would rarely see her, changing their relationship forever.
Solution
The mother made an application to court without notice and merit. I then helped the father provide his information to the court in a logical way and made sure that everything was totally child focused.
Outcome
The court did not recommend a move to Spain and the time the child spent with the father was increased to several nights each week plus holidays. This is working well. The child has developed a lovely relationship with the father and now has regular contact with her paternal family.
International Divorce Lawyers FAQS
What if we disagree about child custody or relocation?
Mediation creates a safe space for parents to explore options before involving the family court. Where appropriate, discussions can focus on creating workable parenting plans. If an agreement is reached, it can later be formalised into a child arrangements order through the English court, if needed. The priority is always the welfare of the children and preserving long-term parental relationships.
Do we still need to start divorce proceedings in court?
The divorce process itself is handled through the court system in England and Wales, but many financial and child-related issues can be resolved in mediation before any formal proceedings begin. This often reduces cost, delay and conflict. If matters cannot be agreed, we will advise you clearly on next steps, but our aim is to help you reach a fair settlement wherever possible through constructive dialogue.
Find out more about how we work or contact us directly to discuss how our international divorce services can work for you.
Take the First Step
Whether you are separating from your spouse, ending a marriage or civil partnership, or navigating complex cross-border issues involving multiple countries, our family law specialists are here to help.
We offer mediation-focused support to international families across England and Wales, working remotely where needed. Every situation is different, and early advice can make a significant difference.
If you would like to make an enquiry, contact our expert lawyers today and take the first step towards a calmer, more constructive resolution.
More LSL Family Law Services
Contact Us
If you are in need of family law support, contact us today to arrange an initial telephone or online chat, in complete confidence, with one of our family law solicitors.
We’re here to relieve your anxiety and find the right solution to the problem you’re facing.
We can help you wherever you are based in the UK with our online services. Our family law solicitors are working from offices in Tunbridge Wells in Kent and Eastbourne in East Sussex.
We also have meeting rooms in Brighton and London.