Oligarchs: a booming industry for the courts

Emma Hatley and Toby Atkinson speak to The Times following a number of recent high-profile Russian divorces being played out in the English courts. These disputes often involve complex financial arrangements with assets located around the world.

Commenting on how a Russian divorce may be brought in London, Emma explains that a wife must show a connection to use the UK courts:

“The pretext is often the education of the children in the English private system. Even if there has been a divorce in Russia, there’s an opportunity for a second bite of the cherry.”

Regarding assets, Toby comments on locating finances when they are kept overseas:

“Often a complex network of offshore companies and trusts are instruments in a game of hide and concealment. This requires spouses and their lawyers to go to lengths and expense to untangle the web and track down the money.”

The full article can be read on The Times’ website here.

You can find further information regarding our expertise, experience and team on our Divorce and Family pages.

If you require assistance from our team, please contact us or alternatively request a call back from one of our lawyers by submitting this form.

Media contact: Lydia Buckingham, Senior Marketing Executive, +44 (0) 20 7822 8134, lbuckingham@stewartslaw.com