Case Study – Practical Example
A Dutch father, residing in the US, requested a divorce and custody arrangement in the Netherlands, despite travel restrictions and international custody challenges.
Read more about international family law.
Background – divorce with a partner in the US
Remco moved to the United States for work several years ago, while his wife Annelies and son Benjamin remained in the Netherlands. After building a new life in the US, Remco decided to divorce, but Annelies wanted to contest both the divorce and custody.
Challenge – parental authority and long-distance visitation arrangements
Due to travel restrictions, Remco could not return to the Netherlands to arrange the divorce. Annelies fought for sole custody of Benjamin while Remco lived in the US. The distance complicated communication and the drafting of a parenting plan. A suitable visitation arrangement and parental custody were crucial to ensure Remco’s involvement.
Solution – legal support for international separation
On behalf of Remco, we filed a petition for divorce with the Dutch court and requested joint custody and a visitation arrangement. Given the geographical distance, the court established a temporary visitation schedule, allowing Remco to video call Benjamin daily to maintain his involvement.
Result – maintaining contact and custody arrangements
The court granted joint custody to Remco, despite the geographical distance. As long as he remained in the US, he was permitted to maintain contact with Benjamin via video calls. When he eventually returned to the Netherlands, the visitation arrangement was expanded to allow for a more active role.
Key learnings
This case demonstrates the importance of legal guidance in international divorces and custody matters. Thanks to a well-considered approach, Remco was able to remain involved in his son’s life and achieve a suitable visitation arrangement, despite travel restrictions and conflicts.
Do you have questions about an international divorce or long-distance custody arrangement? Contact our attorneys for expert guidance.
