The decision to divorce can sometimes be difficult, but for expats divorce is also often complicated. In addition to decisions about family, alimony, property and assets, you may need to consider future residence rights, international pensions, and travel arrangements. Even deciding in which country to file for divorce is not straightforward because of applicable law and competence. The good news is that if you are living in the Netherlands, you can probably apply for a divorce through the Dutch courts, and it is easier and faster to get divorced here than in many other countries. We will find out for you which law is applicable.
GMW lawyers has a team of experts who can assist you in English with even the most complex divorce. We have worked with expats for 30 years, and have the experience and knowledge to help you achieve the best possible solution.
Our divorce lawyers can mediate, litigate and advise you on all aspects of divorce, from the division of matrimonial property to partner alimony, child maintenance, custody and parenting plans.
If you and your spouse can agree together the terms of your divorce, division of property, alimony and any special arrangements, such as for the children, then you can apply for a joint divorce. This is the fastest way to get divorced. Our lawyers can assist in your joint divorce by ensuring all agreements are legally valid, offering legal advice and representing you (both) in court.
If you and your spouse do not agree on getting divorced, or if you cannot agree on the terms of your divorce (division of property, partner alimony, child maintenance, custody, etc.), you can still file an individual petition for divorce. Our lawyers will help you file for divorce, advise you on how to get the best possible deal, and represent you in court. They can also represent you during negotiations with your spouse (or their lawyer) in order reach agreements on the necessary topics.
If you and your spouse wish to achieve an amicable divorce but you cannot agree on the terms, we can assist you with divorce mediation. We have specialised divorce lawyer-mediators who use the Harvard method to help you find a solution through confidential discussion. Within mediation, it is not a disadvantage to share the same lawyer-mediator, as they will give fair and equal care to both parties’ needs. An advantage to hiring a lawyer-mediator is that you do not have to engage a separate lawyer to represent you in court; the lawyer-mediator can represent both parties too.
