US Expat Divorce Jurisdiction

US Expat Divorce Jurisdiction

by Melany
(Bitburg, Germany)

Hi Sharon

I've lived and worked for Dept of Defense overseas schools in Germany since 2006.

I am pending divorce and trying to answer the question of residency.

I am registered to vote and have a valid TN drivers license. My spouse has the same in FL.

We own no real property in either state.

Where can we get divorced? Germany, Tennessee or Florida.

Thanks for the help
Melany

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US Expat Divorce Jurisdiction

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US Expat Divorce Jurisdiction
by: Sharon - Expats Guide

Hi Melany

Thanks for your inquiry (Please note that I am not an immigration officer or an attorney).

Overseas divorce can be quite complicated and it is therefore recommended to use the services of an International Lawyer who is familiar with the international laws regarding divorce.

We have published 2 articles about this subject :

top ten tips for expats which was written by Jeremy D. Morley an International Family Lawyer.

And, and interview with Tracy Achen from US Woman's Divorce

As for your question - US civilians (non-military) living abroad, may not be able to file for a US divorce unless they can meet the residency requirements of the state they will be filing in.

And as regards to filing a divorce in Germany - You should check if the foreign divorce is valid in your state be contacting the office of the Attorney General of your state.

Other than that you can contact the US embassy in Germany and ask for advice.

Best of Luck
Sharon

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