International Family Law
Family-law solutions for families across borders.
Families today are spread across borders, and so are their legal problems. A marriage solemnised in Pakistan may break down in London or Toronto; a custody dispute may straddle two legal systems; a divorce granted abroad may need to be recognised at home.
This is the firm’s flagship practice. We help overseas Pakistanis and mixed-nationality families resolve family matters that cross jurisdictions — clearly, strategically, and wherever possible without the need to travel to Pakistan.
How we help
Overseas Pakistani divorce & khula
Divorce and khula for Pakistani citizens living abroad, conducted through the Pakistani courts — in most cases without travel.
Recognition of foreign divorces & marriages
Advice on the standing in Pakistan of marriages and divorces obtained abroad, and the steps needed to give them effect here.
International child custody
Custody disputes that cross borders, where the welfare of the child remains the guiding principle.
Child relocation cases
Applications and disputes concerning a child’s relocation to or from Pakistan.
Cross-border parenting arrangements
Workable parenting and contact arrangements for parents living in different countries.
Travel-consent & jurisdiction disputes
Disputes over a child’s international travel and over which country’s courts should decide a matter.
Family litigation through Power of Attorney
Representation in the Pakistani family courts through a Special Power of Attorney, so clients abroad need not travel.
One matter, two legal systems
Cross-border cases reward planning. We map how the law of Pakistan and the law of your country of residence interact, identify the right forum, and build a strategy that works across both.
For most overseas clients the entire matter can be handled remotely: we act on a Special Power of Attorney, keep you updated across time zones, and appear in court on your behalf.
Frequently asked
Can I pursue a divorce or khula in Pakistan while living abroad?
Yes. Overseas Pakistanis can pursue divorce or khula through the Pakistani courts, in most cases without travelling, by appointing a lawyer through a Special Power of Attorney attested at the Pakistani embassy or high commission in their country of residence.
Will a divorce I obtained abroad be recognised in Pakistan?
It depends on how it was obtained. A talaq pronounced abroad, for example, generally still needs to follow the notice procedure under section 7 of the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961 to be effective in Pakistan. We advise on the standing of a foreign divorce and the steps needed to have it recognised or made effective here.
Does the Hague Convention on child abduction apply between Pakistan and the UK?
Not at present. Pakistan acceded to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (in force for Pakistan from 2017), but it operates only between Pakistan and the countries that have accepted Pakistan’s accession — and several major jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, have not. UK–Pakistan children’s matters are instead approached through the Pakistani courts and the non-binding UK–Pakistan Judicial Protocol on Children of 2003.
Do I need to come to Pakistan for my case?
Usually not. Most family matters can be handled through a Power of Attorney, with documents arranged through the Pakistani mission in your country. We will tell you at the outset if your personal attendance is genuinely required.
Speak with us about International Family Law
A consultation is an opportunity to discuss your situation confidentially and understand your options before making any decisions.