Best Family Lawyers in Bulgaria

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NEW BALKANS LAW OFFICE
Sofia, Bulgaria

Founded in 2005
15 people in their team
Bulgarian
English
Russian
German
Japanese
The founding NBLO partners wanted to create a law firm whose clear primary focus was on Bulgaria but which would also operate to some extent as a dual jurisdiction legal consultancy providing both Bulgarian law and UK law advice; this was succeeded by the opening of both offices in Bulgaria and...

Founded in 2024
1 person in their team
Bulgarian
Адвокат Ангел Тодоров Димитров е с опит в административното, административнонаказателното, наказателното и гражданското право. Завършил е през 2013 г. специалност...
Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

Founded in 2000
4 people in their team
English
Mladenov, Rusev, Mladenova - Law Firm is a Stara Zagora based legal practice that delivers corporate, insolvency, tax, real-estate, family and litigation services to both businesses and private clients. The firm presents a broad range of specialist capabilities including insolvency proceedings,...

2 people in their team
English
Pehlivanovi, a Plovdiv based law firm, offers a broad spectrum of legal services including civil, commercial and regulatory matters, with a focus on practical guidance and timely client support aligned with current jurisprudence and regulatory practice.Advokat Donka Pehlivanova brings over 12 years...

Founded in 2022
1 person in their team
English
Адвокат Христофор Христов is a Bulgarian legal practice led by an attorney who completed his legal education with distinction in 2020 and established independent practice in autumn 2022. The principal combines strong academic credentials with practical experience gained...

Founded in 1993
English
Mircheva, Atana & Partners Law Office is a Bulgarian law firm established in 1993. For more than 25 years the firm has served clients by defending their rights and interests, delivering professional counsel, and achieving favorable outcomes. The firm emphasizes practical guidance, prompt service,...

Founded in 2020
English
Within Veliko Tarnovo and beyond, the Law Firm of Mariya Georgieva provides qualified legal services including case analysis, written and oral advice, and the drafting of a wide range of documents. The practice represents clients before judicial and administrative authorities as well as before...
LAWYER SIANA VELIKOVA
Sofia, Bulgaria

English
Lawyer Siyana Velikova has been providing legal services in Ruse and throughout Bulgaria for over a decade, specializing in civil law with a particular emphasis on family disputes. Since 2023, she has also been a certified mediator, enhancing her ability to facilitate amicable resolutions in...
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About Family Law in Bulgaria

Family law in Bulgaria encompasses the legal regulations and practices related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, adoption, and inheritance. It is governed by the Bulgarian Family Code and other related legislations, which aim to ensure the protection of family members' rights and responsibilities. Bulgarian family law is influenced by European Union legislation, and seeks to promote the welfare of children and fair treatment for all family members.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where individuals may require legal assistance in family matters in Bulgaria:

  • Marriage and Prenuptial Agreements: Couples may need legal advice when entering into marriage or creating prenuptial agreements.
  • Divorce: Legal help may be necessary for matters related to the division of property, alimony, and custody arrangements.
  • Child Custody and Support: Disputes over custody and child support require professional guidance to ensure the welfare of the child.
  • Adoption: The adoption process can be complex, necessitating legal advice to navigate Bulgarian and international regulations.
  • Domestic Violence: Victims may need legal assistance to obtain protection orders and navigate the legal system.
  • Inheritance: A lawyer can assist with the drafting of wills and navigating inheritance laws.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of local family laws in Bulgaria include:

  • Marriage: Legal age for marriage is 18, although exceptions can be made for those aged 16 and above with court approval.
  • Divorce: Grounds for divorce include mutual consent, irretrievable breakdown of marriage, or at the request of one spouse if cohabitation has been ceased for more than three years.
  • Child Custody: Decisions are based on the best interests of the child, with the possibility for shared or sole custody arrangements.
  • Alimony: Either spouse may be required to support the other based on need and the ability to pay.
  • Property Division: Community property rules apply, where assets acquired during marriage are usually divided equally.
  • Inheritance: The Bulgarian Succession Act governs the division of estate, with specific shares allocated to family members.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is child custody determined in Bulgaria?

Custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child, considering their health, schooling, and emotional needs. Courts may grant sole or joint custody.

2. What is the process for filing for divorce?

To file for divorce in Bulgaria, a petition must be submitted to the regional court. The process can be based on mutual consent or irretrievable marriage breakdown.

3. Can foreign nationals adopt children in Bulgaria?

Yes, foreign nationals can adopt Bulgarian children, but they must comply with both Bulgarian laws and international adoption standards.

4. How is property divided in a divorce?

Properties acquired during marriage are usually divided equally, unless a prenuptial agreement specifies otherwise.

5. What rights do grandparents have concerning visiting grandchildren?

Grandparents may have visitation rights if it serves the child’s best interests. Courts can intervene when necessary to set terms.

6. How is spousal support determined?

Spousal support is determined based on the need of one spouse and the financial capability of the other to provide such support.

7. What are the options for resolving family disputes outside of court?

Family mediation and counseling services are available to help resolve disputes outside of the court system.

8. Is domestic violence recognized legally in Bulgaria?

Yes, domestic violence is recognized and specific laws provide protection for victims, including restraining orders and legal action against perpetrators.

9. Can I change my child's last name after divorce?

Changing a child’s last name requires the consent of both parents or a court decision if consent is not given.

10. Is it necessary to have a prenuptial agreement?

While not necessary, a prenuptial agreement can provide clarity in the division of assets and simplify legal proceedings in case of divorce.

Additional Resources

Some helpful resources for family-related legal advice in Bulgaria include:

  • The Bulgarian Ministry of Justice: Offers information on family law regulations and services.
  • Local NGOs: Organizations like the Bulgarian Women’s Fund provide support and advocacy for family-related issues.
  • Bulgaria Family Courts: Regional family courts provide assistance regarding divorce proceedings, custody, and more.
  • Mediation Centres: Offer services to help resolve family disputes amicably.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in family matters, consider the following steps:

  • Consultation: Seek an initial legal consultation to discuss your situation and understand your rights and obligations.
  • Documentation: Gather necessary documents related to your case, such as IDs, marriage certificates, or financial records.
  • Choose a Lawyer: Select a family lawyer specializing in Bulgarian family law to represent your interests.
  • Prepare for Mediation or Court: Work with your lawyer to prepare for mediation sessions or court proceedings.
  • Stay Informed: Keep updated with any changes in family law that may affect your case.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Bulgaria 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 Family, 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.