Essential resource for overseas work

International family law cases come in all shapes and sizes. These are not for the faint-hearted, often involving a complex interplay of domestic and foreign substantive, procedural and practical issues. Family lawyers handling international work must ensure they are equipped with the right resources to best support their clients. 

The International Family Law Handbook, written and edited by Resolution’s International Committee, covers the full spectrum of international family law issues, addressing both children and financial cases. From broad issues such as jurisdiction, forum, recognition and enforcement, to specific areas such as surrogacy, immigration and child abduction, the handbook offers valuable insights for every international family lawyer – whether practising in the private or public law sphere. 

Neatly divided into 28 chapters, each beginning with a handy summary of ‘key points’, the handbook is authored by highly experienced solicitors, barristers, judges and academics. It provides comprehensive and informative guidance on a wide variety of international topics, all presented in a clear and succinct format. 

The handbook also includes a chapter on ‘international practice issues’, offering a helpful overview of preliminary considerations for family lawyers taking on international cases. The guidance on identifying the international issues in a case – which may, in turn, inform the questions  one needs to ask a foreign  expert – serves as an invaluable starting point for practitioners taking instructions from a new client. 

The handbook not only delivers an up-to-date review of recent developments in international family law (such as Part III claims after the Supreme Court decision in Potanin), but also includes details of how the law has evolved since Brexit. Many chapters also feature a helpful section on relevant case law.

Whether used as a quick reference point or a comprehensive guide on a particular topic, this is an essential resource for all practitioners specialising in international family law. 

Henry Dawson is a senior associate at Hanne & Co, London