Publication date: 05.06.2025
I have been a lawyer since 2023, but my professional path in law began in 2015. During this time, I gained a wealth of experience and expertise working in various areas of law, including employment disputes, family law, commercial disputes, and property division issues. My practice includes both consulting and representation of clients' interests in courts of various instances.I focus on achieving fair and effective results for my clients, using an individual approach to each case.
Consultation on Divorce for a Ukrainian Woman in the UK: Protecting Interests in an International Context
International marriages can become complicated due to multiple jurisdictions and legal systems. Lawyer Olha Datsiuk was approached by a client — a Ukrainian citizen officially residing in the UK — who intended to divorce a foreign national. The complexity of the situation lay in the fact that part of the marriage took place in Ukraine and part in the UK.
The consultation covered not only the legal aspects of the divorce itself but also related issues: the impact on immigration status, division of joint property, potential alimony claims, and protection of the client’s personal rights in a foreign country.
Context of the Case
The client had been living in the UK for over three years and held the legal right to reside, but the marriage was registered in Ukraine. After a long period of discord, she decided to end the relationship. She was concerned whether she could initiate divorce proceedings in the UK, which documents were needed, and how to protect herself legally under British jurisdiction.
Stages of Legal Support
1. Initial Legal Analysis of the Situation
- Determined whether the UK court had jurisdiction in this case
- Verified if there were grounds for divorce under UK Family Law
- Assessed potential risks to the client's immigration status post-divorce
2. Explanation of Divorce Procedure in the UK
- Explained how to file for divorce using the HMCTS online system
- Provided a step-by-step guide on collecting necessary documents
- Clarified court fee structure and options for fee waivers
3. Protection of Property and Personal Rights
- Considered filing for division of joint assets in the UK
- Reviewed any jointly held assets or savings abroad
- Provided legal guidance on applying for alimony if applicable
Benefits of Professional Support
- The consultation was tailored to the realities of a Ukrainian client in the UK
- Legal information delivered in a clear, client-friendly language
- Preparation for next steps without errors or delays
- A sensitive approach to both legal and emotional complexities
Result
- The client gained full understanding of the UK divorce procedure
- A complete document package was prepared for court submission
- Risks of losing legal residency status post-divorce were avoided
- The client felt legally protected and emotionally prepared for the process
Frequently Asked Questions
Question
Is physical presence required to file for divorce in the UK?
Answer
No. The process can be completed online via the HMCTS portal if the required information is available.
Question
Can I file for divorce in the UK if the marriage was registered in Ukraine?
Answer
Yes. The key is to demonstrate a legal connection to UK jurisdiction, such as residence or immigration status.
Photo Proof of Consultation
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This case illustrates how professional legal consultation can help Ukrainian women in the UK preserve their rights, begin a new stage of life with legal confidence, and avoid common mistakes often made in international divorce cases. Olha Datsiuk’s legal support enabled the client to take the first step in this challenging yet important process with minimal emotional and legal losses.
