16-06-2026

INTERNATIONAL DIVORCE AND CROSS-BORDER DISPUTES

International couples often face legal challenges that go far beyond the issues encountered in a domestic divorce. Questions regarding jurisdiction and applicable law can have a significant impact on both the process and the outcome of a case.

At Bremer Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling international divorce and matrimonial property disputes, including cases involving competing proceedings in different countries and disputes regarding which country's courts should hear the case.

Which country has jurisdiction?

One of the first questions that must be addressed in an international divorce is which country has the authority to hear the case. In some situations, proceedings may be initiated in more than one country, leading to disputes over jurisdiction.

We recently represented a client in a matter where matrimonial property proceedingshad been commenced both in Denmark and abroad. Following legal arguments regarding jurisdiction, we successfully obtained a decision that the case should be heard in Denmark, while the parallel proceedings abroad were dismissed.

This case illustrates how important it is to obtain legal advice at an early stage. The country in which a case is heard can have a substantial impact on the procedural framework, costs, timing, and ultimately the outcome of the dispute.

Which country's laws apply?

Even when a case is heard by a Danish court, Danish law will not necessarily apply. The determination of the applicable law depends on several factors, including the spouses' nationality, habitual residence, previous residence, and any marital agreements entered into by the parties.

• Division of assets
• Pension rights
• Financial settlements between spouses

As the law can vary considerably between jurisdictions, identifying the correct applicable law is often one of the most important aspects of an international divorce case.

Strategic advice from the outset

International divorces cases require a thorough understanding of both domestic and international legal frameworks. Decisions made at the beginning of a case may have long-lasting consequences, particularly where multiple jurisdictions are involved.

At Bremer Law Firm, we regularly advise clients in complex cross-border divorce cases. We assist clients in determining:

• Which country has jurisdiction to hear the case;
• Which country's laws apply;
• Whether proceedings initiated abroad can be challenged;
• How to protect their legal and financial interests across borders.

Where necessary, we work closely with trusted foreign lawyers and advisers to ensure that our clients receive coordinated and effective representation.

Experienced representation in International divorce cases

If you are involved in an international divorce, a cross-border matrimonial property dispute, or a disagreement regarding jurisdiction, obtaining specialist legal advice at an early stage is crucial.