Child Custody Disputes in France

This service is ideal for English-speaking parents — whether residents, expats, or international couples — who are going through a child custody dispute in France following a separation or divorce. Whether you're a parent living in France or abroad, if you’re concerned about your rights to custody, visitation, or decision-making for your child, this service ensures professional legal guidance within the French legal framework.

This includes situations such as:

• Unmarried or divorced parents seeking to formalize custody arrangements

• One parent planning to relocate with the child within or outside France

• Disagreements over schooling, healthcare, or living arrangements

• Allegations of parental neglect or abuse

• International child custody disputes under the Hague Convention

To initiate or respond to a child custody dispute in France, the following is typically required:

• Legal standing as a parent or legal guardian of the child

• Current residence of the child in France (jurisdictional requirement)

• A written statement or petition (assignation) submitted to the Family Court Judge (Juge aux Affaires Familiales - JAF)

• Documentation related to:

  • The child’s living situation and relationship with both parents

  • Any previous court decisions or parenting agreements

  • Income and living arrangements of both parents

• In some cases, a report from a child psychologist or social worker may be required

• If applicable, mediation records, especially if it was court-recommended

1. Initial Consultation: Assess your situation, including family dynamics, residency status, and any prior agreements or rulings.

2. Document Preparation: Assist in gathering all necessary supporting documents, including school records, health information, and financial details.

3. Mediation (Optional or Court-Ordered): Explore mediation to reach an amicable agreement. If court-ordered, we represent you during the process.

4. Filing with the JAF: Draft and file the official custody request or response with the appropriate French Family Court.

5. Court Hearing Representation: Represent you in front of the judge, ensuring that your parental rights and the child’s best interests are presented clearly and effectively.

6. Post-Judgment Support: Help enforce or appeal the court’s decision, and modify agreements if circumstances change over time.

• Expertise in French Family Law: Navigate the complexities of child custody in France with confidence, backed by a qualified French lawyer fluent in both French law and English communication.

• Child-Focused Advocacy: Ensure that custody solutions are based on what’s best for your child, while also protecting your parental rights.

• Support for International Families: If you or your child live outside France, or if the other parent is abroad, we provide legal strategies for international custody or relocation cases.

• Clear Communication: Understand every step of the process without language barriers or legal confusion.

• Crisis Management: Get urgent help in cases of child abduction, emergency custody, or protection from domestic violence.

• Initial legal consultation with an English-speaking French family lawyer

• Evaluation of your custody options and likely outcomes

• Assistance with document collection and preparation

• Legal representation in French Family Court

• Mediation support where applicable

• Post-hearing legal support, including appeals or modifications

• Emergency legal assistance where necessary (e.g., child endangerment cases)

• Coordination with international legal systems if the dispute spans multiple countries