International aspects of family law are important parts of Robert L. Flanagan’s law practice.
Mr. Flanagan welcomes the opportunity to assist clients whose legal problems require a thorough knowledge of both international law and Maryland family law. He has provided assistance to clients on diverse matters such as the enforceability of foreign divorce decrees, international kidnapping and protective custody orders. One recent example is a lawsuit in which he obtained an order vacating an international child support order.
Such enforcement efforts are becoming more prevalent. The United States Senate has ratified the Hague Convention of 23 November 2007 on the International Recovery of Child Support and other Forms of Family Maintenance. In addition the United States has entered into reciprocating enforcement agreements with numerous nations listed on the website of the Office of Child Support Enforcement, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
In Howard County Circuit Court, Robert L. Flanagan was successful in obtaining an order vacating an Israeli judgment in excess of $53,000 plus interest for child support arrearages. The order was vacated on the grounds that Israel lacked personal jurisdiction over his client. While jurisdiction existed under the law of Israel and many other foreign nations, Mr Flanagan convinced the court that the judgment violated fundamental notions of due process under the Constitution of the United States. This appears to be a case of first impression in this developing area of law. Therefore the memorandum is published below in its entirety.
Each case is different and past record is no assurance any lawyer will be successful in reaching a favorable result in any future case.
If you are facing a challenging international family law situation and it is important to you that it be handled correctly, accept our invitation to sit down with Robert L. Flanagan for an initial consultation. Please use the contact form to the right to make an appointment.