Going through a divorce while living abroad is stressful enough. The Czech Republic is simplifying its family law in 2026 to make the process more dignified, faster, and less bureaucratic.
If you are considering a divorce in Czechia, here are the key changes that will make your life easier:
1. Unified Proceedings (One Court, One Judge)
Previously, parents had to endure two separate legal battles: one for child custody and another for the divorce itself. The New Way: From 2026, both matters can be handled in a single proceeding. This eliminates the „waiting period“ between custody and divorce, saving you time, stress, and legal costs.
2. No More „Blame Game“
In the past, judges often had to investigate the causes of the marriage breakdown—leading to uncomfortable questioning about private life. The New Way: For uncontested divorces (where both parties agree), the court will no longer investigate the causes of the breakdown. If you have an agreement on children and property, the court will respect your privacy and grant the divorce without prying into your past.
3. Less Red Tape for Children
In every case, a „conflict curator“ (social services) used to be automatically appointed to represent the child. The New Way: If parents are in agreement and there are no concerns regarding the child’s welfare, the involvement of social services is no longer mandatory. This keeps your family matters private and out of government files.
4. No Physical Attendance (In Many Cases)
For international couples, traveling back to Czechia for every hearing is a burden. Under the new rules, if everything is settled in writing, the court may waive the requirement for a personal hearing.
Why MACH LEGAL?
Divorce involving expats often includes complex questions of international law (e.g., assets in multiple countries or cross-border custody). We provide expert guidance in English and Czech, ensuring your rights are protected under the new, faster legal framework.