Child Abduction in France

When dealing with the legal challenge related to child abduction in France by the non-custodial parent, there are specific steps and resources available for the parent left behind. 

This legal service is essential for any parent facing such a distressing situation and aims to guide them through the process of ensuring the child's safe return while navigating the complexities of international law, specifically

• Parents whose child has been abducted to or retained in another country without their consent.
• Those seeking legal assistance to navigate the complexities of international child abduction laws.
• Individuals in need of support through legal advice, mediation, and court representation to ensure the child's return.

1. Initial consultation to gather all relevant information and documents.
2. Contacting the appropriate legal authorities and international bodies, such as the Central Authority for the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction, if applicable.
3. Pursuing legal action through French courts or the courts in the child's current location, depending on the case's specifics.
4. Engaging in international mediation efforts to negotiate the child's return without proceeding to a lengthy court battle, if possible.

• Expertise in International Family Law: Deep understanding of both French law and international treaties affecting parental abduction cases.
• Multilingual Legal Support: Services offered in English to ensure clear communication and understanding of legal processes.
• Comprehensive Assistance: From legal representation to mediation and enforcement of court orders, a full range of services to address the client's needs.
• Assistance in navigating complex legal procedures:  and ensuring that all necessary steps are taken promptly and efficiently.
• Support and guidance: throughout the process, providing not only legal representation but also emotional support and advice.

• Legal Support and Representation: Legal assistance to navigate through the complex procedures under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, to which France is a signatory. This includes filing applications for the return of the child and representing the client in French Family Tribunals.
• Liaising with Central Authorities: Coordination with the French Central Authority and, when applicable, with authorities in the child's current location, to ensure adherence to international treaties and to facilitate the child's return.
• Emergency and Interim Measures: Seeking immediate judicial orders for the provisional return of the child and protective measures, leveraging Article 20 of the "Bruxelles II ter" regulation for cases of urgency.
• Mediation Services: Offering mediation both at a national level and through international mediation services to find amicable solutions that are in the best interests of the child.

• For cases where the abducted child is taken from France, parents can contact the "116 000 Enfants Disparus" hotline for immediate support and advice. 
• This service offers assistance 24/7, providing legal advice and helping with administrative and legal procedures​​. 
• Additionally, the French Ministry of Justice's "Bureau du droit de l'Union, du droit international privé et de l'entraide civile" is a critical contact point for initiating legal procedures for the child's return