DIVORCE & SEPARATION
You wish to modify a divorce judgement
Are changes in your life making your divorce settlement feel outdated or unfair? Our experienced family law team can help you navigate the complex process of modifying divorce judgments, whether it concerns custody arrangements, maintenance payments, or property division matters. Click to learn more about your options.
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.
Life changes, and divorce judgments can prove inaccurate in their predictions. We help you explore options for modifying your divorce judgment. Additionally, if a party believes they were deceived during the divorce process, the judgment may be reviewed in specific limited cases—particularly regarding the division of marital property.
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
Who has jurisdiction to modify a foreign judgment?
Generally, the courts of the child's habitual residence have jurisdiction to handle all child-related matters (custody, maintenance, etc.), with exceptions becoming rare, including for modifying a judgment issued abroad. Regarding other matters, Swiss jurisdiction will be established if the respondent spouse is domiciled in Switzerland. The law also provides for other cases, but their recognition abroad must then be carefully verified. Don't hesitate to consult us for an initial assessment.
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.
Is it possible to review a past divorce judgment?
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.
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★★★★★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
Who has jurisdiction to modify a foreign judgment?
Generally, the courts of the child's habitual residence have jurisdiction to handle all child-related matters (custody, maintenance, etc.), with exceptions becoming rare, including for modifying a judgment issued abroad. Regarding other matters, Swiss jurisdiction will be established if the respondent spouse is domiciled in Switzerland. The law also provides for other cases, but their recognition abroad must then be carefully verified. Don't hesitate to consult us for an initial assessment.
Learn more 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 protective measures for marital union (separation judgment) be modified?
Yes, but courts are strict about modifying judgments based on settlements or agreements. Thorough evidence must be presented to show that the requested changes were truly unforeseeable.
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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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