Family and Children

Family and children matters often involve deeply personal issues combined with significant legal and financial consequences. New Balkans Law Office advises individuals and families on a wide range of family law matters connected to Bulgaria, with particular strength in cases involving an international or cross-border element.

We understand that family disputes and decisions can be emotionally challenging. Our role is to provide clear, sensitive and practical legal guidance, helping clients navigate complex situations while protecting their interests and, where relevant, the best interests of any children involved.

We advise clients on all key aspects of Bulgarian family law, including divorce, separation and the financial consequences of the breakdown of a relationship. Our work includes assisting with the division of marital assets, identifying and categorising property under Bulgarian law, and advising on agreements reached between spouses or former partners.

Where families, assets or proceedings span multiple jurisdictions, we provide guidance on jurisdiction, applicable law and the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments. We regularly advise on the interaction between Bulgarian law and EU family law instruments, which govern jurisdiction, recognition and enforcement in matters of parental responsibility and divorce within the EU.

We also advise on pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, cohabitation arrangements and long-term planning for families with international connections.

Issues concerning children require particular care and sensitivity. We advise parents on custody, parental responsibility and contact arrangements, including in cases involving mixed-nationality families. Our team assists with the negotiation and formalisation of agreements relating to children and represents clients in court proceedings where agreement cannot be reached.

We have specific experience in cases of international child abduction and wrongful retention under the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. We act for both left-behind parents seeking the return of a child to their habitual residence and for parents responding to return applications before the Bulgarian courts. Our work frequently involves the application of the Hague Convention alongside EU instruments, including urgent proceedings, coordination with EU central authorities and cooperation with foreign counsel.

We also advise on child maintenance obligations, including the assessment, adjustment and enforcement of maintenance payments, and on cross-border enforcement within the EU framework. Where appropriate, we help structure maintenance arrangements to meet specific needs, such as education or healthcare expenses.

Family law matters often intersect with immigration, tax, real estate and inheritance issues. We work closely with colleagues across NBLO to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach.

Our advice is discreet, empathetic and solutions-oriented. We aim to resolve matters efficiently and, where possible, amicably, while remaining fully prepared to protect our clients’ interests through court proceedings when necessary.