Divorce is never easy. It’s an emotional upheaval, and the last thing you need is a financial and logistical nightmare to go with it.
For many US citizens living in Okinawa—whether you are military, SOFA status, or a civilian resident—there is a common misconception that you must fly back to the United States or travel to Guam to dissolve your marriage.
I’m here to tell you that isn’t true. In fact, doing it right here in Okinawa is often the superior choice.
Why Choose the Okinawa Family Court?
As you can see in the photo above, I spend a lot of time at the Okinawa Family Court. I help clients navigate the local system every week, and here is why I recommend handling your proceedings locally:
1. It is Significantly Cheaper Flying to Guam or the mainland US involves airfare, hotels, and often expensive US legal retainers. By contrast, the filing fees for the Japanese Family Court are incredibly low compared to US standards. You save thousands of dollars simply by staying local.
2. It is Easier and Less Adversarial The US system can often drag on with endless motions and hearings. The Japanese system generally prioritizes mediation and agreement. If both parties are willing to cooperate, the process is streamlined and efficient, allowing you to move on with your life sooner.
3. It is Legally Recognized Worldwide This is the biggest worry my clients have: “Will this count in the US?” The answer is yes. A divorce granted in Japan is legally valid in the United States and recognized worldwide. You do not need a US judge to stamp your papers for them to be real.
Don’t Go It Alone While the system is easier, the language barrier is real. The paperwork is in Japanese, and the court procedures follow Japanese protocol. That is where Dave Higgins Office comes in.
We specialize in translation and administrative support for US citizens. We bridge the gap between you and the Okinawa Family Court, ensuring your documents are prepared correctly and you understand every step of the process.
Stop looking at flight tickets to Guam. Let’s handle this right here at home.