International couples could be given right to choose divorce laws

09 August 2010



Couples of different nationalities within the European Union (EU) could be given the opportunity to decide which country's divorce laws apply to them. In some cases, this may help couples avoid rushing their divorces through courts, which in turn could lead to emotional and financial strain. 

So far, 14 Member States have agreed to cooperate with the scheme, with the remainder given the chance to do so whenever they please. The Commission revealed that the plans would help to protect the weaker party in a marriage should a separation occur, as well as couples of different nationalities.

Vice-President Viviane Reding, Commissioner for Justice, Fundamental Rights and Citizenship, said: "Given that the previous proposal had been stuck in an institutional traffic jam for half a decade, it is safe to say that the EU now has the means to put important legislation into the fast lane." She said that the rules would give couples the assurance they need when entering into a cross-border relationship. 

Posted by Sue Andrews

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