Practice & Procedure in International Child Abduction Cases in England & Wales

Introduction

This virtual classroom seminar will focus on practice and procedure in international child abduction cases.

The procedures and mechanism of applications made pursuant to the 1980 Hague Convention as well as proceedings relating to inward and outward abduction cases within the High Court will be considered.

In respect of the 1980 Hague Convention cases, the obligations under the Convention together with practical points relating to nature of the evidence, the limits of the courts and going through each possible defence/exception will also be considered. In respect of non-1980 Hague Convention cases, the practice and procedure as well as the jurisdictional basis for such applications shall be considered.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive session will cover the following:

• Procedure for pursuing 1980 Hague Convention cases
• The rules in respect of on notice and without notice hearings
• The rules on evidence, including witness statements and protective measures
• Knowledge of each defence/exception to a summary return under the 1980 Hague Convention including consideration of how and why they apply and the impact upon certain defences on the case
• An outline of the involvement of CAFCASS in 1980 Hague proceedings
• Procedure for commencing applications in the High Court in non 1980 Hague Convention cases
• The difference in procedure and case progress in Hague v Non Hague cases

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.