Contact us
Please note that we cannot offer Legal aid
Understanding Property Division in French Divorces
Determining Who Gets the House with Children Involved
Dividing Assets with Properties Abroad
Challenges and Solutions in Dividing International Assets
PacisLexis Family Law
Getting divorced who gets the house
Dividing assets during a divorce is often one of the most contentious issues.
In France, divorce affects approximately 45% of marriages, and one of the primary concerns for couples is determining who gets the marital home.
This issue becomes even more complex when international assets are involved, as laws vary significantly across jurisdictions.
In France, property division is influenced by the marital regime (the legal framework governing a couple’s property).
International divorces or cases involving properties abroad add further complications, such as reconciling different legal systems and enforcing decisions across borders.
It is crucial to have a lawyer with expertise in family and international law to navigate these challenges effectively.
getting divorced who gets the house
Understanding property division in French divorces
What happens to the house in a French divorce?
The fate of the marital home depends on the couple’s marital regime:
• Community Property Regime: Assets acquired during the marriage are shared equally.
• Separation of Property Regime: Each spouse retains ownership of assets in their name.
• Universal Community Property Regime: All assets, even those acquired before the marriage, are shared.
Does ownership matter in deciding who gets the house?
Yes!
Ownership plays a significant role.
If the house is solely owned by one spouse under a separation of property regime, it typically remains theirs unless a mutual agreement states otherwise.
Can one spouse keep the house temporarily?
Yes!
Interim measures during divorce proceedings may grant one spouse the right to live in the home temporarily, especially if children are involved.
Can the house be sold during divorce proceedings?
In most cases, the sale of a jointly owned property requires both spouses’ consent unless otherwise ordered by a court.
What happens if both spouses want to keep the house?
The court may order one spouse to buy out the other’s share or, if an agreement cannot be reached, the property may be sold, and the proceeds divided.
getting divorced who gets the house
Who gets the house with children involved?
Does having children influence who gets the house?
Yes!
The court often prioritizes the children’s stability. The custodial parent is more likely to be granted the right to stay in the home, at least temporarily.
Can interim measures protect the family home for the children?
Yes!
Interim measures can ensure the custodial parent and children remain in the home until a final decision is made.
What if both parents share custody?
In shared custody cases, the court may consider the practicality of keeping the home, proximity to schools, and the financial ability of each parent to maintain the property.
Can the non-custodial parent challenge the decision?
Yes!
The non-custodial parent can appeal the decision if they believe the division of assets is unfair.
Does child support influence the decision about the house?
While child support payments may not directly determine who gets the house, they can affect a parent’s ability to maintain the home financially.
getting divorced who gets the house
Dividing assets with properties abroad
How does French law apply to properties abroad?
French law applies to property division if the divorce is filed in France, but enforcing decisions on international assets depends on bilateral agreements or treaties.
Can a French court divide foreign assets?
Yes, but the process can be complex.
Courts may request appraisals, documentation, and compliance with the foreign country’s laws.
What happens if the foreign property is solely owned by one spouse?
Ownership depends on the marital regime and the laws of the country where the property is located.
French courts may not have authority to alter ownership governed by foreign laws.
How can a lawyer help with international properties?
An experienced lawyer ensures proper valuation, documentation, and negotiation, and coordinates with foreign legal experts to resolve cross-border disputes.
Can the sale of foreign properties be enforced by a French court?
Enforcement depends on international treaties.
In some cases, additional legal action may be required in the country where the property is located.
getting divorced who gets the house
Challenges and solutions in dividing international assets
What are the common challenges in international property division?
Challenges include differing property laws, tax implications, and enforcing French court decisions abroad.
Can a foreign court’s decision conflict with a French ruling?
Yes!
Conflicts can arise, especially in countries without treaties with France.
A lawyer can help resolve these conflicts by navigating both legal systems.
How can financial valuation be handled for international properties?
Professional appraisers and international legal experts are crucial for accurate valuation and compliance with foreign laws.
Are there tax implications when dividing foreign properties?
Yes!
Tax obligations vary by country.
Legal and financial experts can help minimize tax liabilities. Contact our firm if you want to lower your tax.
What should you do if your spouse hides international assets?
A lawyer can help investigate hidden assets through financial records, international inquiries, and court orders.
To help you
and to care
PacisLexis Family Law
Facing a complex property division during a divorce?
Contact our expert family lawyers to protect your rights and secure your future.
Dealing with international properties in a divorce? Schedule a consultation with our experienced legal team today.
PacisLexis Family Law
Our divorce and separation articles
ADR disputes & dispute resolution: pros, pitfalls & cross-border considerations
When a dispute threatens your business, your professional reputation, or your personal life, going to court isn’t your only option. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) offers faster, more discreet, and often more effective ways to settle conflicts. Whether you’re navigating an international contract dispute, a high-stakes arbitration, or a cross-border family matter, our firm offers in-depth legal guidance and international expertise. Book an appointment with one of our dispute resolution attorneys within 48 hours—we help clients across jurisdictions resolve disputes efficiently and strategically.
Military divorce lawyer
Divorces involving military staff are uniquely challenging due to the distinctive lifestyle, obligations, and benefits associated with military service. Frequent relocations, long deployments, and complex compensation structures make these divorces different from standard civil cases.
Cohabitation agreement lawyer
More and more couples today choose to live together without getting married. While this is increasingly common, many people are unaware that living together can leave them legally vulnerable in case of separation, illness, or death. Unlike marriage, which comes with a clear legal framework, cohabitation often provides little or no protection unless you create one yourself — and this is where a cohabitation agreement lawyer becomes essential.