We were delighted to welcome practitioners from around the world to the 2025 International Family Law Conference in the stunning Alpine setting of Chamonix, France. Set against the breath-taking backdrop of Mont Blanc this year’s event brought together experts from 18 jurisdictions for two days of comparative discussion, insight and collaboration.
Comparative, cross-border insight
This year’s programme centred on panel discussions comparing and contrasting international approaches to complex family law issues – a format highly valued by delegates in previous years.
We extend our sincere thanks to senior partner Eliza Hebditch, who acted as conference producer. Eliza curated the entire vision for the event – designing the programme, identifying the speakers, shaping panel topics, and planning the social elements that made this conference so unique. Her thoughtful planning ensured that every session offered depth, clarity and genuinely comparative insight.
Programme highlights included:
- Relocation and international children disputes: contrasting how courts across jurisdictions approach best-interests analysis, evidence, and interim relief.
- Financial remedies in a global context: examining disclosure challenges, non-marital property, offshore assets and enforcement considerations.
- Jurisdiction races and forum strategy: insights into how different courts prioritise habitual residence, domicile, and the prevention of parallel proceedings.
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements worldwide: reviewing trends in enforceability, autonomy, and judicial discretion.
- Developments in the Middle East: updates on the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court and its growing role in international matters.
The comparative format once again proved to be one of the conference’s strongest features, offering delegates a rare opportunity to understand differing approaches to similar problems and to refine their own cross-border strategies.
A Quiz night to remember
Our quiz night was one of the most memorable yet — raucous, competitive, and enormous fun. With around 100 delegates keen to claim the title of quiz champions, the atmosphere was electric from the outset.
The Play-Doh challenge was a highlight, producing a remarkable range of creative (and occasionally hilarious) creations that sparked friendly rivalry among teams.
We loved the energy, humour and team spirit – a standout moment of the conference.
A Gala Dinner with purpose
The gala dinner was a truly special occasion. We were honoured to host Sir Nicholas Mostyn as our after-dinner speaker, whose presence brought both warmth and gravitas to the evening.
As part of the night, we held a charity Heads or Tails fundraiser in support of The King’s Parkinson’s Mostyn Fund, raising funds and awareness for a cause close to Sir Nicholas Mostyn.
It was a memorable evening of connection, generosity and celebration at the beautiful La Cabane restaurant.
Thank you to our sponsors, speakers, and delegates
We extend our sincere thanks to all sponsors, speakers, and delegates who made this year’s Chamonix conference such a success. Your contributions, questions and perspectives enriched every session and helped create an engaging and memorable experience for all.
We look forward to welcoming delegates to our 2027 conference in Dubai. Contact anna@expatriatelaw.com to be added to the mailing list.
Question, comment or concern? Our contact form is the best way to get in touch with a member of our team.