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05 June 2026 / Rachel Fisher
Issue: 8164 / Categories: Features , Family , International , Divorce , Child law , Jurisdiction
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When the domestic goes global

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© Getty images
Rachel Fisher explores how globalisation is reshaping family law
  • Increasingly international families, cross-border assets and global mobility are reshaping family law, creating complex disputes over jurisdiction, finances and child arrangements.
  • As divorce and separation become more international, family lawyers must work across legal systems and alongside financial and global advisers to secure fair outcomes for clients.

Family law is the most personal area of law. Lawyers in this sector work with people going through some of the most emotionally charged and legally and practically complex times in their lives. Divorce and separation are rarely smooth sailing, and the legal processes involve several hurdles for clients to overcome.

Complications often focus on the financial aspects. Marriage is, at the core, a contract which legally binds not only the couple but their assets and wealth. Coming to a point, possibly after many years of sharing a life together, where money must be divided according to needs and fairness, often causes tensions. The other aspect is children. Where child

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Church Court Chambers—Maryam Syed KC

Church Court Chambers—Maryam Syed KC

Church Court Chambers welcomes Maryam Syed KC

Devonshires—Sean Garbutt

Devonshires—Sean Garbutt

Devonshires strengthens construction team with appointment of partner Sean Garbutt

Thackray Williams—Alexandra Hubbard

Thackray Williams—Alexandra Hubbard

Thackray Williams strengthens employment team with dual-qualified solicitor

NEWS
Judges and lawyers reviewing the rules of disclosure have ruled out a return to the old system of CPR Part 31, and will consult on proposals to simplify the Practice Direction (PD) 57AD regime by early next year
A consumer organisation has hit back at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for encouraging motor finance compensation claimants to steer clear of law firms and claims management companies
A fast, free and anonymous piece of software has been launched to help law practices comply with their regulatory duty to guard against an increasing onslaught of cyberattacks
A mood of cautious optimism has enveloped the criminal law sector following indications the prime minister may abandon planned jury reforms
The Court of Appeal has held user damages are recoverable in a competition claim, in Meta Platforms Inc and other companies v Gormsen [2026] EWCA Civ 993
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