Legal Question in Family Law in California

I was married in California in 2005. My wife and I separated amicably in 2010. We have had no contact since 2019 -- she won't reply to my attempts to reach her. I have been living abroad since 2013, and I have no plans to return to the United States. Now I want to remarry.

My question is this: if I obtain a foreign divorce, in Turkey, do I need to have it registered with (or somehow accepted by) the California court, in order to legally remarry? And if so, what are the requirements to have it recognized? Is it notice provided by publication (since I'm unable to reach my spouse), plus documentation of the foreign divorce?


Asked on 3/01/24, 10:09 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
PATRICK MCCRARY PATRICK MCCRARY

The answer is not simple and the situation not real clear. I will tell you why. I had a gentleman come into my office (in the early 80's) He had married a lady during WW2 and then divorced her in Mexico. When he applied for Social Security in 1980 he was informed that his wife would take a part reducing his amount. SS told him they did not recognize the Mexican divorce. The laws on social security have changed since then but you may be taking a chance with a foreign divorce. Although, if you are a legal resident of Turkey, it would probably not be a problem. A California decree would certainly not be a problem.

Pat

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Answered on 3/01/24, 10:23 am


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