I would like to find out about getting a divorce that involves an
American(me)and a British citizen without any kids. We've been married
4 yrs and have lived in both countries together. Recently we have been
living separately for 6 months in our "home" countries.  I think the
divorce could proceed in either country but I want to understand the
differences between the countries in terms of process and asset
distribution. He has a lot more money than I do. Basic facts and
examples/cases would be the most helpful. Or free advice.

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Request for Question Clarification by easterangel-ga on 22 Sep 2002 11:13 PDT

Hi! Just to make thing clear. You want the following:

a. The basics of divorce in the UK and in the US?
b. Would articles about these topics be sufficient as an answer?
c. Or do you need specific info of a divorce between an American and
British couple in the US and in the UK? This one is very specific.

Just let me know.

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Clarification of Question by jen333-ga on 22 Sep 2002 13:01 PDT

regarding you questions:
a) I do not need basics - i know those already. 
b) yes - articles about the subject as a whole (i.e. comparison) would
be great. Preferably, with an opinion/info about which country is more
advantageous for the spouse with less money. I live in NY so ideally,
anything comparing UK to NY law. Anything with advice and
pitfalls/dirty tricks to watch out for. And anything with tips or
things to take into account before deciding where to start the
process. How much I may be entitled to, etc.
c) no - I don't have to have an actual specific example of a
particular couple in the same situation, but of course it would be
helpful if there were a situation similar to mine which is short
british/american marriage (4 yrs), no kids, have lived as married
couple in both UK and NY and are now living separately in our
respective countries (and have been for 8 months).

Hope that helps - thanks

Hi,

"Jurisdiction Shopping" for a Divorce Court is an article that
addresses this issue.It is provided by a British law firm. Be sure to
read the section on "Calderbank letter."
http://www.terry.co.uk/divorce9.html

This next one may be the perfect link for you. A lawyer, practicing in
New York who specializes in international divorce...

The International Divorce Law Office
Morley and Trager
Attorneys at Law
230 Park Avenue
Tenth Floor
New York, NY 10169
U.S.A. 
jmorley@bigplanet
http://www.international-divorce.com/keypointsininternationaldivorce/

Then we have 
www.divorceUK
http://www.divorceuk.com/pages/keyissues/expat.php
With some basic advice about UK expats and foreign nationals. Not very
relevant to your situation, but they do have a lot on UK divorce laws.

Your best course of action would be to contact the Park Avenue lawyer
and set up a consultation. Some lawyers will charge for the initial
consult. Find out what the fees will be, if any, before you speak to
anyone in person. Find out what the chances are that your settlement
will cover legal fees and court costs.

Trying to settle this without the assistance of a lawyer may be a
mistake. If you are going to retain a lawyer, one who is experienced
in international divorce cases seems like a logical choice.

Search terms: international divorce American British

Hope this helps...

Good luck!

bcguide-ga

What state were you married in? Although you can divorce elsewhere,
that would certainly be a place to start...