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Managing international property division in Indiana divorces

On Behalf of | Oct 14, 2024 | Divorce |

You and your spouse have built a life together, gathering assets in Indiana and overseas. Now, your marriage is ending, and you face a big challenge. How will you divide your wealth across different countries?

Splitting property in a divorce is challenging but even harder when your assets are international. You need to find a fair way to divide everything while protecting what you have earned. Let us explore how to handle a divorce involving international properties and learn the best ways to manage this complex situation.

Jurisdiction matters

Indiana courts can handle your divorce if either spouse has lived in the state for six months. They can divide local and international assets. However, enforcing a decree for foreign assets is complex. You may need to validate the decree in the asset’s country, which is often complicated.

Valuing international assets

It would be best to value international assets in U.S. dollars for accuracy. Financial professionals can help ensure the correct accounting and valuation of all assets under Indiana law.

Enforcement challenges

Enforcing an Indiana divorce decree abroad can be challenging. Some countries do not recognize U.S. court orders, making asset division hard. You might need to negotiate a different asset split to avoid foreign legal battles.

Custody and parenting time

International custody arrangements are complex. Indiana’s judicial system employs Parenting Time Guidelines to create schedules prioritizing children’s welfare. These often include video calls and extended visits during school breaks.

Considering legal assistance

High-asset divorces involving international properties require careful planning and experienced legal help. Consider consulting an attorney who can clarify your legal rights and available choices for a smoother process.