Should I Divorce in England & Wales or Virginia?

Comparing Divorce Laws and Financial Remedies When a couple has ties to more than one country, deciding where to divorce can be just as important as the decision to divorce itself. In this episode, David Allison and Katharine Maddox explore the key differences between divorce in England & Wales and in the state of Virginia, two jurisdictions with some markedly different approaches to financial remedies, maintenance, and legal rights. Their conversation covers: Jurisdiction for divorce, including domicile and residency Financial claims on divorce Maintenance claims both spousal and relating to children Claims available to non-married couples Pre and post-nuptial agreements The key legal differences between England & Wales and Virginia This conversation offers a clear and practical comparison of two different legal frameworks, and highlights why early, informed advice is essential. *Update: Effective from July 1, 2026: Viewers and listeners should be aware that the law in Virginia regarding the timeline to file for a divorce has changed since the date of recording. For more information, see Virginia House Bill 303: https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/2026... About the speakers: David Allison, Family Solicitor, Family Law in Partnership David is a highly regarded family lawyer and accredited mediator. The focus of his practice is financial claims on divorce, particularly those involving jurisdiction disputes, international asset structures, and families with connections to multiple countries. He works closely with overseas lawyers and professionals to coordinate strategies that protect individual’s interests while maintaining a constructive, solutions-focused approach. Known for his calm and thoughtful style, David combines technical precision with a deep understanding of the human context behind each case. He supports people through challenging transitions with clear guidance, helping them move forward with stability and confidence. Katharine Maddox, Maddox & Gerock, P.C. Katharine has practiced family law for over 25 years and is a founding partner of Maddox & Gerock, P.C., a boutique domestic relations law firm located in Northern Virginia. Katharine is the president of the USA Chapter of the International Academy of Family Lawyers and she is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Katharine regularly lectures on family law issues throughout the United States as well as internationally. Further, Katharine frequently publishes articles related to Virginia family law and she is the co-author of the Virginia chapter of an international family law treatise.  In addition to litigating family law matters, Katharine is a strong advocate for Alternative Dispute Resolution: She is certified by the Virginia Supreme Court as a family law mediator and she regularly engages in the collaborative process. When not practicing law, Katharine most enjoys spending time with her family and her two rescue dogs, gardening and cooking. Both Katharine and David are members of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL).