Representation in Hague Convention Cases

・Representation in court proceedings (petitions) of cases seeking the return of children and in other related cases

・Representation in court conciliation (mediation) or adjudications for visitation or contact with children in Japan

・Representation in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) of cases seeking the return of children or visitation of children in Japan

・Assistance in submitting applications to the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs for assistance in order to realize the return of children

・Assistance in returning children to Japan from foreign states

Since the Hague Convention entered into force in Japan in 2014, a left-behind parent whose parental rights have been breached by the removal or retention of a child has been able to file a petition for the return of the child to the country of his/her residence.

The court procedures to realize the return of a child from a foreign state to Japan or visitation of a child in a foreign state are conducted in that foreign state.  Although Japanese attorneys cannot act as counsel in foreign states where there they are not registered to practice law, they can nonetheless be of great help in collecting evidence regarding the life of a child and the parent in Japan and providing other kinds of support.  Japanese attorneys cooperate with attorneys in foreign states to settle Hague Convention and other related cases.

We always strive to settle cases amicably in the manner most compatible with the best interests of a child.