Aaron Bundy

What do you like most about working as an international divorce lawyer?

International work is compelling for several reasons. The special nature of cross-border works demands the very best work product and client service. I appreciate the opportunity to work for foreign nationals with unique needs and circumstances. It is an honor to collaborate with likeminded professionals in other countries.

What are your predictions or worries for the future in this area of the law?

The need for sophisticated counsel with a passion and proclivity for international work will only continue to grow. High-net-worth individuals are more mobile than ever. Lawyers must remain on the cutting edge of legal trends and technological capabilities for communication. Lawyer accessibility for the client and clear, consistent communication with the client and their other advisors will always be critical to successful working relationships for international cases.

What is your advice to young lawyers who work on international divorce cases?

Every year there are more books, trainings, and conferences available for lawyers interested in international work. If you are inclined toward cross-border work, seize the opportunities for educational resources and networking with experienced colleagues from around the world

What makes international divorce cases different from other divorce cases?

International divorce cases are different from other divorce cases for many legal and practical reasons. Clients often need legal counsel in two or more jurisdictions: in their country of residence, in the jurisdiction of the legal proceeding, and in the jurisdiction where their property is held. Practically, there is a heightened expectation of and need for clear, consistent communication across time zones and language barriers. International clients may have varying expectations for potential outcomes due to their education or experience in foreign climates, so they require initial and ongoing definitions of legal processes, applicable time frames, strategic options, and potential results.

What do you believe to be one of the biggest problems when dealing with international divorces?

International divorce and child custody cases become very difficult when working with or against counsel who have no prior experience or interest in cross-border work or creative solutions. This is why it is so important for clients having legal issues or interests in other jurisdictions to seek qualified counsel who understand the complex dynamics associated with working with clients and other professionals from varying cultural and legal backgrounds and norms.

What is your advice to people who are entering into an international marriage?

Although it may be difficult and even impossible to fully address all potential future issues associated with residing or owning property across multiple jurisdictions, it is still advisable to consider entering into a comprehensive prenuptial agreement. There are so many benefits to prenuptial agreements, and a well-written contract can serve as a helpful foundation for addressing legal issues that may arise in the future due to the premature death of a spouse or the demise of the marriage. Working through the prenuptial agreement process can help ensure appropriate premarital communication about property interests and expectations and accordingly minimize risks and expense associated with future disputes.

What would you like to say to judges who are dealing with international divorces?

Context matters. Be mindful of cultural differences and avoid imposing one’s own cultural biases or expectations. If one or both spouses originate from another country or have property holdings in another jurisdiction, available information about cultural expectations and norms as well as complexities associated with enforcing a judicial decision in the other implicated countries will be very important. Both spouses will benefit from a decree that contains detailed language and instructions so that a foreign court can understand it and ensure that it is appropriately followed.