Legal Question in Family Law in Lebanon

Dear Sir,

We understand that:

1- A Lebanese/French woman ( member of your family) is married to a Lebanese man under the rules of the Maronite Church in Lebanon.

2- They Have 3 kids of 12, 8 and 3 years old

3- The situation is getting bad between them, and therefore she's seeking divorce.

4- However, he is threatening to take the kids from her and to come back to Lebanon and to deprive her from seeing the kids.

Accordingly you are seeking for our advice.

Based on the above:

1. The Lady needs to start proceedings in Lebanon, since the marriage took place in Lebanon as per the Maronite Church. She can claim for the divorce in France (as a French national residing in France); however the judgment of divorce in that case would not be recognized in Lebanon.

2. In front of the Maronite Court, it will be better to claim for the divorce only.

3. We will need to examine the facts of the case to know on what grounds to build the case.

4. In parallel, and based on the proceedings in front of the Maronite Court, she will be able to raise a case in France, asking for the guardianship of the kids, their alimony, and claim for compensations as well.

5. She will be able to ask for a ban of travel to forbid him to abduct the kids.

During the whole process she can initiate negotiations for an amicable settlement, as she will be negotiating from a strong position, out of any threats.

6. In all cases please feel free to send us a more detailed email on the following address: [email protected]. We do communicate in French as well.