Family law and divorce attorneys in Montego Bay
Divorce, division of property, custody and maintenance, handled with discretion and with your family's future in mind.
Family matters are personal and often painful. We handle them with discretion and care, and we aim to reach practical arrangements that work for you and your children, going to court only where it is genuinely necessary.
Divorce
In Jamaica a divorce is granted by the Supreme Court under the Matrimonial Causes Act on the basis that the marriage has broken down irretrievably, shown by the spouses having lived separately for at least twelve months. We prepare and file the petition, arrange service on your spouse, and take the matter through to the decree nisi and the decree absolute. We also act for spouses who live abroad or whose spouse cannot be located.
Division of property between spouses
The Property (Rights of Spouses) Act sets the rules for dividing property when a marriage ends, and it also gives rights to unmarried partners who have lived together as spouses for at least five years. The family home is generally divided equally unless the court decides that would be unfair. We advise on your entitlement, negotiate a settlement and apply to court where agreement cannot be reached. Time limits apply to these applications, so it is important to take advice early.
Custody, access and guardianship
We act for parents and family members on custody, care and control, access arrangements and guardianship of children, always with the child's best interests at the centre of the advice we give.
Maintenance
We advise on applications for child maintenance and spousal maintenance, applications to vary existing orders and enforcement where payments have stopped.
Agreements and other family matters
- Prenuptial and separation agreements
- Protection and occupation orders under the Domestic Violence Act
- Adoption and related applications
- Change of name and deed poll documents
Read our guide
Questions clients ask
How long do I have to be separated before I can file for divorce in Jamaica?
You must have lived separately and apart for at least twelve months before filing the petition. The period of separation is calculated up to the date the petition is filed.
Can I get a divorce in Jamaica if I live overseas?
Often, yes, depending on your connection to Jamaica. We can advise on whether the Jamaican court has jurisdiction and handle the proceedings without you needing to attend every hearing in person.
Do common-law partners have property rights in Jamaica?
Yes. Under the Property (Rights of Spouses) Act, a man and a woman who have lived together as spouses for at least five years, while both single, can apply for a division of property in the same way as married spouses. Strict time limits apply after the relationship ends.
Talk to an attorney about your matter
Consultations in person in Montego Bay, by phone or by video call.