DIVORCE & SEPARATION
You are headed for a divorce
Are you facing divorce proceedings in Switzerland and seeking expert guidance through this challenging time? Our specialized family law team brings decades of experience in both amicable and contentious divorces, with deep expertise in Swiss and international law to protect your interests.
Our law firm specializes in divorce, and our members' combined experience encompasses thousands of procedures, both amicable and contentious, as well as managing the countless incidents that can arise in such scenarios. Divorce requires specific expertise and continuous adaptation to our clients' needs.
Swiss law is both extraordinarily flexible and complex; moreover, international law frequently comes into play. We pride ourselves on presenting the right arguments at the right time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a divorce judgment be modified?
Divorce judgments address both past matters — such as the liquidation of matrimonial property — and future arrangements — such as child custody and maintenance payments.
Future arrangements in a divorce judgment can be modified when significant and lasting changes occur. For instance, maintenance payments may be adjusted due to job loss or substantial changes in income. Similarly, if a child expresses a strong desire to change their custody arrangement, this aspect may be reconsidered. Since the law provides no rigid criteria for such modifications, this flexibility works both ways — something we skillfully use to our clients' advantage. Past matters are generally settled permanently after appeal deadlines expire. However, we can seek revision in specific cases — such as concealed information or criminal influence — but this must be done quickly, so consult us without delay.
Can I get divorced?
You can consider divorce in four cases: (1) both spouses agree to divorce; (2) you have been living separately for two years — consult us beforehand; (3) continuing the marriage has become unbearable — while this is often not readily accepted, consult us to determine if your situation falls under this provision; (4) you wish to avoid jurisdiction abroad (meaning your spouse filing for divorce in another country) — while this case is not easy to handle, it is worth a consultation.
YOUR TEAM
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TESTIMONIALS
What our clients say
★★★★★We often think a lawyer is there to manage cases. But this firm does much more than that: it saves people. When I arrived at Kulik Hottelier, I was exhausted, overwhelmed, lost. I didn't know where to turn anymore, and I felt like everything was against me. Yet, from the very first meeting, something changed: I found hope again. Here, you're not just a name on a file. You are heard, understood, respected, and defended with impressive determination. The follow-up is constant, responses are quick, exchanges are clear and transparent. You always know where you're going, without surprises and with confidence. Kulik Hottelier is: • exceptional legal expertise • a thoughtful, intelligent, and effective strategy • clear and honest communication at every step • and above all, a rare humanity in this profession What struck me the most? Their ability to fight without ever getting drawn into unnecessary conflicts. A firm, brilliant, and incredibly precise defense, always results-oriented, never ego-driven. In moments when I doubted, they were my pillar. In moments when I was afraid, they were my assurance. And at the decisive moment, they were the force that made all the difference. Today, I am finally turning the page. And I know that without their work, their support, and their excellence, none of this would have been possible. If you're looking for a firm that combines brains, heart, courage, and transparency, don't waste time: contact them. There are professionals… and then there are lawyers who truly change a life. This firm belongs to the second category. Thank you to Maître Sevig, Maître Hottelier, and all your teams who work behind the scenes. Your work will remain engraved in my story.
★★★★★I can only recommend this team who greatly helped me! Through their professionalism, attentiveness and good advice, but also through their flexibility and very human approach. Thank you to them!
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a divorce judgment be modified?
Divorce judgments address both past matters — such as the liquidation of matrimonial property — and future arrangements — such as child custody and maintenance payments. Future arrangements in a divorce judgment can be modified when significant and lasting changes occur. For instance, maintenance payments may be adjusted due to job loss or substantial changes in income. Similarly, if a child expresses a strong desire to change their custody arrangement, this aspect may be reconsidered. Since the law provides no rigid criteria for such modifications, this flexibility works both ways — something we skillfully use to our clients' advantage. Past matters are generally settled permanently after appeal deadlines expire. However, we can seek revision in specific cases — such as concealed information or criminal influence — but this must be done quickly, so consult us without delay.
Learn more Can I get divorced?
You can consider divorce in four cases: (1) both spouses agree to divorce; (2) you have been living separately for two years — consult us beforehand; (3) continuing the marriage has become unbearable — while this is often not readily accepted, consult us to determine if your situation falls under this provision; (4) you wish to avoid jurisdiction abroad (meaning your spouse filing for divorce in another country) — while this case is not explicitly provided for by law, we handle it with our experience. Consult us. If you do not meet any of these conditions, you can: (1) obtain a legal separation judgment; (2) prepare for divorce while preserving assets; (3) obtain precise information about what to expect in Switzerland and thus decide what you want to do. Swiss law broadly recognizes marriage; therefore, the place of marriage often matters little in determining Swiss jurisdiction. Consult us if you have any doubts.
Learn more Who gets the home?
Without an agreement, the judge follows a three-step legal framework to decide who stays in the home: utility of the property, feasibility of relocation, and legal status of the property. This determines who stays, who leaves, and under what conditions and timeline. Primary custody of children strongly increases the likelihood of being granted the marital home. Working from home can also be a compelling factor. However, there are no automatic outcomes—each case is evaluated based on its specific circumstances.
Learn more Can I separate?
Swiss law follows a no-fault divorce system. While the civil code allows judges to authorize separate living, spouses generally don't need authorization to separate. However, be cautious—if you or your spouse later file for divorce in another country, different laws may apply, potentially leading to complications. More frequently, leaving the marital home might not be relevant at all. We recommend consulting us first to avoid such issues.
Learn moreCONTACT
WEBINARS
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Upcoming
Divorce in Switzerland: What Expats Need to Know
Residency rules, applicable law, financial settlements — a practical roadmap for expats navigating divorce proceedings in Switzerland.
By Damien Hottelier
Expat Divorce: Cross-Border Complications to Anticipate
Jurisdiction conflicts, dual nationals, enforcement abroad — anticipate the legal pitfalls that can derail an international divorce in Switzerland.
By Damien Hottelier
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