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'Divorce Tourism'
08 April 2011
There have been recent reports in the media about a married couple, both Russian Nationals, who started a
“race to divorce”in Russia and England. The case has recently been heard at the Court of Appeal.
English and Welsh Courts must have jurisdiction (the authority to 'hear' a case) and strict criteria governs whether or not the Courts have the required jurisdiction.
It may be that a person has the option of starting divorce proceedings in England and Wales, or in another county, which could result in substantially different outcomes. Choosing what county to start proceedings in can be known as “forum shopping”, and has led to the media term of “divorce tourism” .
If you or your spouse have international connections and/or assets abroad, and you are contemplating divorce, advice should be obtained at an early stage.
Please contact our family team for more information.
Clare Joyson, Solicitor.
