Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Norway

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Barneadvokatene
Oslo, Norway

6 people in their team
English
Barneadvokatene specializes in matters that involve children, delivering legal work with a clear legal mind and a warm heart that define the firm's approach.Its caseload includes child welfare matters, visitation rights, and parental responsibility disputes, with a focus on safeguarding the child's...
Advokatfirmaet Thallaug ANS
Lillehammer, Norway

Founded in 1919
English
Advokatfirmaet Thallaug ANS, established in 1919, is one of the largest law firms in the Innlandet region of Norway. With a team of 24 professionals, including five attorneys authorized to appear before the Supreme Court, the firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services. Their main office is...
Askim, Norway

Founded in 1996
5 people in their team
English
Advokat Eva Frivold operates a focused practice based in Askim, Østfold, delivering expert legal services to private clients in matters spanning family law, real estate and employment disputes. The firm is recognized for handling complex family matters including barnefordeling, barnevern, and...
Advokatfirma Skretting AS
Stavanger, Norway

Founded in 2007
5 people in their team
English
Advokatfirma Skretting AS is a Stavanger based law firm established in the summer of 2007. The firm has a long standing tradition of standing up for the little man against greater powers, with a focus on procedural work and conflict resolution for private clients.Driven by a philosophy of clear,...
Harstad, Norway

Founded in 2013
3 people in their team
English
Advokathuset Harstad AS offers legal services across a broad spectrum of private and public law, serving clients in Harstad and the surrounding region. The firm provides advice and representation across civil and administrative matters, leveraging its local knowledge and professional standards.The...

Founded in 2016
English
Advokatfirmaet Tveter og Kløvfjell AS is a comprehensive provider of legal services, offering team-based assistance to both individuals and businesses across Norway. With a main office in Oslo and branches in several cities, including Drammen, the firm ensures accessibility and personalized...
Law firm Torstrup AS
Stavanger, Norway

English
Law Firm Torstrup AS is recognized in Norway for its sophisticated legal expertise across multiple practice areas, including criminal justice, family law, labor relations, and real estate. The firm’s legal team brings together a wide range of experience, handling complex criminal defense cases,...

6 people in their team
English
Advokatfirmaet Advisio AS is a Norway-based boutique law firm specialising in matters linked to work, health, family and social security. The firm advises both private individuals and organisations and is recognised for concentrating its practice on complex welfare-law and family-law problems...
Advokat Mette Loe AS
Oslo, Norway

Founded in 2020
English
Advokat Mette Loe AS specializes in family and child law, including child custody, financial settlements at dissolution, and estate settlements. The firm delivers thorough case preparation and practical guidance, backed by extensive procedural experience to help families achieve stable outcomes...
Oslo, Norway

Founded in 2016
5 people in their team
English
Advokatfirmaet Shah AS is a litigation-oriented law firm based in Strømmen, Norway, founded and led by advokat Javeed H. Shah. The firm handles a range of matters with particular emphasis on criminal cases, immigration matters and family law, and it represents clients in district courts and...
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About Divorce & Separation Law in Norway

Divorce and separation in Norway are governed by the Marriage Act, which provides the legal framework for ending a marital relationship. Norwegian law allows for both consensual and non-consensual divorce. Couples can either agree mutually to terminate the marriage or apply for a separation order if they need time apart before deciding on a final divorce. The focus of the law is on ensuring fair distribution of assets and ensuring the well-being of any children involved. While non-contentious divorces can be straightforward, any complexities, such as disagreements over child custody or asset distribution, can prolong the process.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking a lawyer's assistance in divorce and separation cases can be essential for several reasons:

  • Complex Asset Division: If you have significant financial assets, a lawyer can help ensure equitable distribution.
  • Child Custody Disputes: Lawyers provide valuable expertise for reaching an arrangement that prioritizes children’s welfare.
  • Alimony and Support Obligations: Legal assistance can help determine fair support payments.
  • Dispute Resolution: A lawyer can assist in mediating disputes and negotiating settlements to avoid lengthy court proceedings.
  • Understanding Legal Rights: Navigating Norwegian family law can be intimidating; legal counsel helps you understand your rights and responsibilities.

Local Laws Overview

Norwegian divorce and separation laws emphasize fair and equitable treatment for all parties involved. Key aspects include:

  • Equity in Asset Division: The Marriage Act stipulates that assets acquired during the marriage are to be shared equally unless a prenuptial agreement states otherwise.
  • Children’s Best Interest: Custody arrangements prioritize the child's best interests, often recommending joint custody to maintain strong ties with both parents.
  • Mandatory Mediation: Couples with children are required to attend mediation sessions to discuss custody and contact arrangements.
  • Separation Requirement: A mandatory separation period of one year is required for a no-fault divorce unless there are special circumstances such as abuse.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum period required for obtaining a divorce in Norway?

A minimum separation period of one year is required, with formal separation documented by the County Governor known as "fylkesmannen."

How are assets divided in a divorce?

Assets acquired during the marriage are typically divided equally unless specified otherwise by agreement, prenuptial contract, or if there are strong reasons for deviation.

What happens to the marital home?

The marital home is considered part of the shared estate; however, who retains it can depend on custodial needs for children or agreements between the parties.

Is mediation mandatory in divorce cases in Norway?

Yes, mediation is required if the divorcing couple has children under 16, focusing on reaching an amicable agreement about parental responsibilities.

Can I apply for divorce if my spouse disagrees?

Yes, Norway's legal system offers a no-fault divorce option with a one-year separation period regardless of mutual agreement.

How is child support determined?

Child support is calculated based on both parents' income, time spent with the child, and the child's needs. Guidelines are provided by NAV.

Can prenuptial agreements influence divorce settlements?

Yes, prenuptial agreements outlining asset division and financial arrangements are legally binding in Norway.

Is alimony a common outcome in Norwegian divorces?

Alimony is not customary, but ex-spouses may receive compensation if there is a significant disparity in income and need demonstrated.

What if my spouse and I cannot agree during mediation?

If mediation fails, you can proceed to court where a judge will make decisions on unresolved issues.

How can I protect my pension entitlement in a divorce?

Pensions form part of the shared estate; consulting a lawyer can help ensure fair treatment of pension rights in settlements.

Additional Resources

If you're seeking more information or assistance, consider the following resources:

  • The Norwegian Courts Administration (Domstoladministrasjonen): Provides comprehensive information on legal processes concerning family law.
  • Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV): Offers guidance on child support and benefit calculations.
  • Barneombudet (The Ombudsman for Children): Advocates for children’s rights and provides resources for custody disputes.
  • Familievernet (Family Counseling Services): Offers mediation and family counseling to help resolve disputes amicably.

Next Steps

If you're in need of legal assistance concerning divorce or separation in Norway, consider the following steps:

  1. Consult with a specialized lawyer to discuss your situation and explore your options.
  2. Document all financial assets and liabilities for a comprehensive overview of your marital estate.
  3. Attend required mediation sessions, especially if children are involved, to work towards a mutual agreement.
  4. Research and gather information on your legal rights and obligations under Norwegian law to better prepare for proceedings.
  5. Engage with government resources for guidance and support, especially concerning child welfare and support calculations.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Norway through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Divorce & Separation, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.

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