International Child Abduction
International child abduction: urgent intervention to protect what matters most
The international abduction of children and adolescents is one of the most delicate and urgent situations in family law. It occurs when one parent transfers or retains a minor in a country other than their habitual residence without the consent of the other parent or without judicial authorization.
At Carmen Varela, Abogados de Familia, we specialize in these types of proceedings, which require swift, coordinated action and a high level of international legal specialization. We intervene in restitution proceedings applying the 1980 The Hague Convention, both before the Central Authority and the competent courts, to guarantee the return of the minor to their country of habitual residence and reestablish the legitimate exercise of guardianship of minors.
Our experience with families of different nationalities or residing abroad allows us to act effectively in complex and emotionally sensitive situations, always with the aim of protecting the rights of the minor and their more stable environment.
Our approach: speed, international coordination and protection of children and adolescents
At Carmen Varela, Abogados de Familia, we approach international child abduction cases with the utmost urgency, sensitivity, and legal precision. We know that time is of the essence: the longer the wrongful detention continues, the more complicated the child’s return becomes and the more their emotional stability is disrupted.
Our approach combines a deep understanding of international law, particularly the 1980 The Hague Convention, with a clear and straightforward legal strategy, both at the administrative and judicial levels. We act in collaboration with the Central Authority and, when necessary, we directly file return claims before the competent courts.
Furthermore, we work in close coordination with lawyers from other countries, ensuring effective defense at both ends of the proceedings and always prioritizing the best interests of the child or adolescent and their safe return to the environment from which they were removed.
The path we walk together:
We can help you
Don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll study your case and find the best way to address it.
What will we deal with?
Initial case assessment
We determine whether the legal requirements for initiating restitution proceedings under the 1980 The Hague Convention or other applicable international regulations are met.
Intervention before the Central Authority
We submit restitution applications through official channels and manage communication between countries.
Filing a lawsuit for restitution
We have initiated urgent legal action before the competent court to obtain the immediate return of the minor.
Assistance to unjustly detained parents
We defend the rights of those who have been illegally deprived of the right to live with their children, whether in Spain or abroad.
International coordination with other professionals
We work with foreign lawyers to ensure a coordinated legal strategy in both countries.
Advice on complementary measures
We help you modify child custody arrangements, establish compliance safeguards, and prevent future abductions.
Why choose us?
Specialists in international child abduction
We have extensive experience in complex cases involving unauthorized removals or illegal detentions, acting quickly and effectively to secure the return of the child.
Mastery of international law and The Hague Convention
We rigorously apply the 1980 Hague Convention and other international regulations, ensuring a proper legal strategy from the outset.
Urgent and coordinated action
We know that time is of the essence. We mobilized immediately and worked in parallel on administrative and judicial channels to expedite the process.
International collaboration network
We work in close coordination with lawyers from other countries and specialized legal networks, allowing us to effectively intervene on both sides of the conflict.
Child-centered approach
We always act with the best interests of the child in mind, seeking their protection, emotional stability, and the restoration of family ties.
Close and human accompaniment
We know how difficult it is to go through a process like this. We support you with closeness, transparency, and total commitment until we achieve a fair and safe solution for you and your children.
