International family law<\/strong> is the body of rules that resolves family disputes when a foreign element is present: spouses of different nationalities, residence in different countries, children relocated abroad or assets in more than one State. It is not a separate area of family law, but the set of rules that determines which court has jurisdiction<\/strong>, which law applies<\/strong> and whether a foreign judgment can be recognised and enforced<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Every international family matter is structured around three questions, in this order:<\/p>\n That the answer to the first and the second may differ is entirely normal \u2014 and is precisely what makes these proceedings require a clear strategy from the outset.<\/p>\n There is no single code. Three levels combine: EU Regulations<\/strong>, international conventions<\/strong> and, residually, Spanish domestic law<\/strong>. The principal instruments are Regulation (EU) 2019\/1111 (Brussels II ter) for matrimonial matters and parental responsibility, Regulation (EU) 650\/2012 for succession, Regulation (EU) 2016\/1103 for matrimonial property regimes, and the Hague Convention of 25 October 1980 for child abduction.<\/p>\n Which instrument applies depends on the countries involved and the date of the proceedings \u2014 and that determination is the lawyer’s first task.<\/p>\n Because choosing the wrong forum or ignoring which law governs the case can determine the outcome before the merits are even discussed. Filing in one country rather than another may change the regime for the family home, the calculation of maintenance or the distribution of an inheritance. And in child abduction cases, deadlines are counted in days. If your case has connections with more than one State, it is advisable to consult a specialist international family law firm<\/a> before taking the first procedural step.<\/p>\n Related terms: international divorce<\/a> \u00b7 international child abduction<\/a> \u00b7 right of visits<\/a><\/p>\n Every case is unique and requires the right legal strategy. Speak to a specialist in International Family Law.<\/p>\nContents<\/h2>\n
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The three questions it resolves<\/h2>\n
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What areas it covers<\/h2>\n
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The applicable rules<\/h2>\n
Why it matters from day one<\/h2>\n
Legal sources<\/h2>\n
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Need legal advice?<\/h3>\n