Getting divorced is one of life’s most stressful events. That stress is often amplified when you are a US citizen living abroad in Okinawa, trying to navigate a foreign legal system you don’t understand.
Many US citizens stationed here feel “stuck.” They believe the process will be too slow, too complicated, or that a divorce in Japan won’t be recognized back in the United States.
At Dave Higgins Office, we are here to tell you that it is possible, and it doesn’t have to take forever.
We are thrilled to announce a recent success story. We just finished at the Okinawa Family Court for a client—a US-to-US citizen couple—and successfully obtained their divorce hearing date in a record time of only 37 days.
Why is this a big deal? This crucial hearing date is the milestone that allows the couple to finalize their divorce and, most importantly, have critical issues like child custody and visitation legally decided by the court. Our efficient process means both parties can move forward with clarity and peace of mind, much faster than they ever thought possible.
Common Concerns for US Citizens Divorcing in Okinawa
If you’re a US citizen on Okinawa considering divorce, you are probably worried about a few things:
- Jurisdiction: “Can we even get divorced in Japan? Will the US recognize it?”
- Speed: “I’m rotating back to the US (PCSing) soon. What if the process takes a year or more?”
- The Process: “I don’t speak Japanese. How can I possibly handle the Family Court system, the paperwork, and the legal proceedings?”
- Child Custody: “What happens to my kids? Will I be able to get a fair custody and visitation agreement?”
These are the exact problems we specialize in solving. While many people search for a “divorce lawyer in Okinawa,” our office provides a comprehensive service that manages the entire process for you. We handle the paperwork, file with the court, and guide you through every single step, removing the language and bureaucratic barriers.
As this recent 37-day case shows, we know the Okinawa Family Court system and can help you navigate it efficiently.
Don’t let the fear of a complex system stop you from moving on with your life. If you are a US citizen in Okinawa and need assistance with divorce, child custody, or visitation, contact us today.