The Hague Convention is a multilateral treaty that ensures the prompt return of children below 16 to their habitual residence. It also enacts measures that prevent parents from removing or retaining children to a different country with more favorable custody laws.

Generally, all custody matters under the Hague Convention are heard in the child's home country. If you need help with an international child custody case and want to become the primary custodian of your child, our experienced Hague Convention attorneys can help.

We will provide legal advice and assistance at every step of the way to ensure you are reunited with your loved ones.

Determining the Home State of the Child

Unlike California, child custody cases under the Hague Convention do not evaluate the best interests of the child. Instead, it resolves custody disputes by recognizing the child's habitual residence and deferring the judgment to the laws of that country.

In an international case under the Hague Convention, the court will determine whether the child was wrongfully removed or retained from his or her home state. The court will assess:

• Whether the child's habitual residence was in a signatory country prior to abduction, and
• Whether the child was removed from someone with custodial rights

The court will look at each case as per its unique situation.

If you need help from a Hague Convention lawyer in Orange County for your child custody case, call (714) 733-7066 or send an email to We will ensure your child returns to the United States safely so you can exercise your parental rights.

Schedule a no-obligation consultation today.