Legal Blog

International Assets and Divorce

The division of international assets during a divorce can be complex due to differing laws and regulations in each country. The process of dividing international assets in a divorce typically involves the following steps:

  1. Identification of Assets: Both parties must disclose all international assets, including property, bank accounts, investments, and other assets held abroad.
  2. Valuation: The assets must be valued to determine their worth. This can be challenging when dealing with assets in different currencies and markets.
  3. Jurisdictional Issues: Different countries have different laws governing divorce and property division. The legal jurisdiction of the assets (i.e., which country’s laws apply) needs to be determined.
  4. Property Division: Depending on the laws of the jurisdiction, international assets may be divided according to community property or equitable distribution principles. This may include splitting the assets equally or fairly between the parties.
  5. Currency Conversion: When assets are in different currencies, they may need to be converted to a common currency for division.
  6. Legal Proceedings: Divorcing couples may need to work with legal professionals in multiple countries to resolve issues related to international assets.
  7. Enforcement: Once a division agreement is reached, ensuring the enforcement of the agreement across different countries can be complicated. Legal processes may vary by country.
  8. Tax Implications: Dividing international assets may have tax consequences in different jurisdictions. Consulting tax professionals familiar with international tax laws is important.
  9. Settlements: In some cases, couples may reach a settlement agreement that includes international assets. This can simplify the process and avoid potential conflicts.

If you are going through a divorce involving international assets, it’s important to seek legal advice from professionals with experience in international divorce and property division.

ABOUT CHERYL L. HEPFER

Cheryl Hepfer Photochepfer@offitkurman.com | 240.507.1752

Cheryl Hepfer is a highly-regarded attorney who has practiced family law for more than 40 years. She has been rated by her peers and is listed in Best Lawyers in America and as a top lawyer in the Washingtonian, Bethesda Magazine, and Super Lawyers. She is past president of both the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers.