International
divorce
As an international place to live and work, Geneva is particularly often the starting point for divorces involving multiple countries—for example, when one spouse works for an international organization, a multinational company, or in the diplomatic community. In an international divorce, the first questions that arise are whether the proceedings will take place in Geneva or in another country, and which law will apply—issues that play a key role in determining the division of assets, spousal support, and child custody matters. We determine jurisdiction from Switzerland, secure internationally relevant assets at an early stage, and represent our clients through our network of partners in more than 80 countries worldwide.
Why Geneva plays a special role
As the headquarters of numerous international organizations, multinational companies, and diplomatic missions, Geneva is the place in Switzerland with the highest concentration of marriages with an international component. We operate in both German- and French-speaking Switzerland and are particularly familiar with this context—from employees of international organizations to entrepreneurs residing in multiple countries.
Determining jurisdiction in Switzerland
Whether divorce proceedings can or must be conducted in Switzerland depends on the spouses’ habitual residence, nationality, and other connecting factors. We clarify this issue of jurisdiction as a first step, as it shapes the entire course of the proceedings.
Diplomatic and functional immunities Tens of thousands of diplomats and staff members of international organizations live and work in Geneva, and we regularly represent them as clients. In cases of separation and divorce, specific issues arise regarding immunity, international mobility, and entitlements to pension funds such as the UNJSPF. We take these particularities into account from the very beginning in our litigation strategy—especially with regard to service of process and enforcement issues.
Which law applies?
In cases with an international dimension, Swiss law does not automatically apply. From our office in Geneva, we determine which law applies to divorce, matrimonial property, and spousal support, and identify which legal system is more advantageous in each specific case.
Choosing the most favorable jurisdiction
In marriages involving multiple countries, the choice of jurisdiction can have a significant impact on the outcome—particularly with regard to assets and spousal support. From our office in Geneva, we assess whether litigation in Switzerland or another country would be more advantageous and, if necessary, act swiftly to secure a strategically favorable venue.
Protecting international assets:
Assets spread across multiple countries—real estate, equity interests, trusts, and bank accounts—require a coordinated strategy to identify, evaluate, and, where necessary, protect them. From our office in Geneva, we coordinate these efforts through our network of partner law firms in more than 80 countries.
Child-related matters when parents reside in different countries:
If parents live in different countries, resolving child-related matters—such as custody, visitation rights, and school choice—requires a particularly careful agreement that is enforceable across borders. We structure these arrangements so that they remain valid even outside of Switzerland.
Discretion for clients with an international profile
Many of our clients with international ties to Geneva are in the public eye, either professionally or socially. We handle international divorce proceedings with the discretion that such circumstances require, ensuring that the matter does not gain visibility that could harm our clients.
The answer depends on jurisdiction, specifically on the habitual residence and nationality of both spouses. We handle this on a case-by-case basis from our office in Geneva.
Yes, in certain circumstances, immunities or issues of legal status may be relevant. We take this into account from the very beginning when developing our litigation strategy.
No. Which law applies depends on the circumstances of the individual case. We review this from Geneva before determining how to proceed.
Yes, provided the relevant requirements are met. We assist with the recognition process and subsequent enforcement.
We coordinate the inventory and, where necessary, the preservation of these values through our international network of partners.
We handle the proceedings with particular discretion and coordinate our communication and approach closely with our clients.