Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Finland

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Founded in 1994
3 people in their team
English
Advokatbyrå Ch. Eriksson Asianajotoimisto is a long established Finnish law practice with origins dating back to the 1940s and formal foundation in 1994. The firm operates from Pietarsaari with a service point in Vaasa and is led by two attorneys, Christer Eriksson and Thomas Lillqvist, supported...
Kotka, Finland

English
Lakiasiaintoimisto Kotka is a private client law practice based in Kotka, Finland, serving individuals across the country. The firm offers an initial free 30-minute consultation and emphasizes transparent communication to keep clients informed at every stage. The practice places a strong focus on...

English
Asianajotoimisto Moisander & Vainio Oy, established in 2019, is a distinguished law firm serving clients across Eastern Finland. With offices in Savonlinna and Mikkeli, the firm offers comprehensive legal services to individuals, businesses, and public entities. Their areas of expertise encompass...
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 2015
3 people in their team
English
Helsingin Lakiasiainpalvelu Oy is a Helsinki-based law firm providing legal services to private individuals and small and medium-sized companies throughout the Helsinki region. The firm offers multilingual client service in Finnish, Swedish and English and maintains an office near the Herttoniemi...
Lainmukaan Oy
Tampere, Finland

1 person in their team
English
Lainmukaan Oy is a Tampere-based legal practice led by jurist Päivi Riutta, specialising in family law, housing and real-estate disputes, estate planning and related private-client matters. The firm combines courtroom experience with negotiated solutions and handles matters ranging from testament...
Kuopio, Finland

1 person in their team
English
Lakimies Kuopio provides professional legal services to private individuals in Kuopio, Finland. The practice emphasizes strict confidentiality, efficiency, and pursuing the client’s best interests through clear collaboration and ongoing communication. The firm offers a free first thirty-minute...

Founded in 1984
4 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Träskbäck & Co Oy is a Vaasa-based Finnish law firm providing nearly forty years of experience in advising private individuals, businesses and organizations in matters requiring sophisticated legal expertise. The firm has a strong reputation for depth of knowledge across...
Asianajotoimisto Plathin
Turku, Finland

Founded in 2002
1 person in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Plathin Oy is a Turku-based law firm concentrating on family law and criminal defense. The firm is led by attorney Julia Plathin-Kankare, who brings extensive courtroom experience and specialised knowledge in child custody, residence, visitation rights and maintenance matters....

Founded in 1994
4 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Kärkkäinen & Niskanen Oy is a Finnish independent law firm based in Jyväskylä with additional presence in Äänekoski, offering a long standing local presence and client focused service. The firm has operated in Jyväskylä since 1994, reflecting deep roots in the community and...

Founded in 2014
2 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Eija Heikkinen Oy is a Finnish law firm with offices in Oulu, Pudasjärvi, Rovaniemi and Helsinki, providing tailored advisory and litigation support to private clients. The practice handles a broad range of matters including family law, estates and civil disputes, drafting...
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About Divorce & Separation Law in Finland

Divorce and separation in Finland are governed by straightforward and modern laws that are designed to be as fair and hassle-free as possible for both parties involved. The Finnish legal system does not require the demonstrating of fault or specific reasons for divorce, making it possible for a marriage to be dissolved simply if either spouse wishes to do so. The divorce process begins with an application to the district court, and there is usually a six-month reconsideration period. Finnish law also addresses issues such as the division of property, custody of children, and spousal maintenance, ensuring that all parties are treated equitably.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While the divorce process in Finland is designed to be straightforward, there are several situations where legal advice might be necessary. For instance, if there are disagreements regarding the division of assets, custody of children, or spousal support, a lawyer can help navigate these complex issues. Additionally, if one spouse does not agree to the divorce or if there are allegations of domestic abuse, professional legal advice is crucial to protect one's rights. Legal assistance can also be beneficial in drafting agreements, understanding legal rights, or engaging in court proceedings if required.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of Finnish divorce and separation laws include:

  • No-fault Divorce: Divorce in Finland does not require proof of wrongdoing by either party.
  • Six-Month Reconsideration Period: A cooling-off period of six months is generally mandatory unless the couple has already been separated for at least two years.
  • Property Division: Finland follows the marital property regime, which means all assets are considered shared unless specified otherwise.
  • Child Custody and Welfare: The court prioritizes the child's best interests when determining custody arrangements.
  • Spousal Maintenance: Although less common, spousal support can be awarded based on specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file for divorce if my spouse doesn't consent?

Yes, in Finland, either spouse can file for divorce irrespective of the other's consent.

What if we have been living apart for some time?

If you have been living separately for at least two years, a divorce can be granted without a reconsideration period.

How is property divided during a divorce?

Property is typically divided equally unless there is a prenuptial agreement or other court ruling.

What factors influence child custody arrangements?

The child's best interests, including their welfare, safety, and relationship with each parent, are the primary considerations.

Is spousal maintenance common in Finland?

Spousal maintenance is relatively rare and is only granted under certain conditions where there is a significant disparity in income or earning capacity.

How long does the divorce process take?

The process typically takes six months, allowing for the reconsideration period, but it can be shorter if the couple has lived apart for two years.

Do we need a mediator for resolving disputes?

Mediation is encouraged for resolving disputes regarding children and property but is not mandatory.

Can foreign nationals file for divorce in Finland?

Yes, foreign nationals can file for divorce in Finland if either spouse resides in Finland or if Finland was the last place the couple lived together.

How do courts determine child support payments?

Child support is determined based on the child’s needs and each parent's capacity to pay, sometimes using established guidelines.

What happens if one spouse hides assets?

If asset hiding is suspected, legal recourse can be sought to ensure fair and equitable division based on full disclosure.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking help, consider reaching out to the following resources:

  • Legal Aid Offices: Offer assistance based on income levels.
  • The Finnish Bar Association: Can help find qualified divorce lawyers in your area.
  • Social Insurance Institution of Finland (KELA): Provides guidance on child support and benefits.
  • Local District Courts: For filing for divorce and more information on the proceedings.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance for divorce or separation, start by reaching out to a qualified family law attorney to discuss your case. Gather all necessary documentation, such as marriage certificates and financial records, to bring to initial consultations. Consider mediation if applicable, and ensure that you explore all your options and rights thoroughly with your lawyer. Lastly, seek support from trusted friends or family during this challenging time.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Finland 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.