{"id":120786,"date":"2025-11-21T15:29:30","date_gmt":"2025-11-21T15:29:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/?post_type=comparative_guide&#038;p=120786"},"modified":"2025-11-27T10:28:30","modified_gmt":"2025-11-27T10:28:30","slug":"bermuda-family-law","status":"publish","type":"comparative_guide","link":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/chapter\/bermuda-family-law\/","title":{"rendered":"Bermuda: Family Law"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"template":"","class_list":["post-120786","comparative_guide","type-comparative_guide","status-publish","hentry","guides-family-law","jurisdictions-bermuda"],"acf":[],"appp":{"post_list":{"below_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">Marshall Diel &amp; Myers<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2025\/05\/MARSHALL-LOGO.png\"\/><\/span><\/div>"},"post_detail":{"above_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">Marshall Diel &amp; Myers<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2025\/05\/MARSHALL-LOGO.png\"\/><\/span><\/div>","below_title":"<span class=\"guide-intro\">This country specific Q&amp;A provides an overview of Family Law laws and regulations applicable in Bermuda<\/span><div class=\"guide-content\"><div class=\"filter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" placeholder=\"Search questions and answers...\" class=\"filter-container__search-field\">\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<ol class=\"custom-counter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the jurisdictional requirements for divorce and property division? How do the concepts of domicile, residence and nationality apply in relation to divorce and financial arrangements?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The Supreme Court of Bermuda has jurisdiction to hear proceedings for divorce, judicial separation or nullity where either party is domiciled in Bermuda on the date the proceedings are commenced, or has been ordinarily resident in Bermuda throughout the year preceding the application.<\/p>\n<p>On the making of a divorce, nullity or judicial-separation order, or at any time afterwards, the court may determine financial applications and make orders for capital, property or maintenance (spousal or child) pursuant to sections 27 and 28 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What factors do local courts take into account when determining forum\/jurisdiction issues? In what circumstances (if at all) would your jurisdiction stay divorce proceedings in favour of proceedings in another country?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The court may stay proceedings under Schedule 1 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974 if the same marriage is already the subject of proceedings in another country. The discretion is exercised on the balance of fairness and convenience, taking into account:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the residence of the parties and the location of their assets;<\/li>\n<li>the convenience of witnesses;<\/li>\n<li>delay, expense and duplication of proceedings; and<\/li>\n<li>whether one forum can resolve all issues, including financial relief.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Bermuda courts apply the principle of forum non conveniens, giving preference to the jurisdiction with the closest and most practical connection to the dispute.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is applicable law relevant in your jurisdiction \u2013 when and how would this apply?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Bermuda applies its own domestic law to all divorce and financial proceedings before its courts. Foreign law is not generally applied to questions of divorce or financial provision, although private-international-law principles may govern the validity of a foreign marriage or divorce.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the grounds for divorce and are they fault-based? What is the broad procedure and timeline for divorce?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Since the Matrimonial Causes (Faultless Divorce) Amendment Act 2022 came into force, Bermuda operates a no-fault system. Parties need only provide a statement that the marriage has broken down irretrievably; that statement is conclusive evidence and replaces all former fault-based grounds such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour.<\/p>\n<p>An application for divorce is made after at least three years of marriage unless exceptional hardship or depravity is shown. The respondent must acknowledge service within eight days, which is extended if they reside abroad. Uncontested divorces are listed on set hearing dates. A conditional order is granted first; the applicant may apply for a final divorce order eight weeks later. Straightforward uncontested cases can conclude within about 20 weeks.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the requirements for service of divorce proceedings in your jurisdiction? Can you make a joint application for a divorce in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Service is governed by the Matrimonial Causes Rules 2023. The application must ordinarily be served personally on the respondent. Where personal service is impracticable, the applicant may seek leave for substituted service, including electronic means, or for dispensation of service if necessary or expedient. Documents served outside Bermuda follow either the Matrimonial Causes Rules or the Rules of the Supreme Court 1985.<\/p>\n<p>While each party may file individually, there is presently no formal joint-application procedure. However, under the new no-fault system, both spouses may consent to divorce and proceed on an agreed, uncontested basis.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are the following recognised in your jurisdiction? a. Foreign marriages; b. Foreign civil partnerships \/ civil unions; c. Customary marriages, or d. Religious marriages.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The validity of a foreign marriage is determined in accordance with private-international-law principles. Overseas divorces or legal separations are recognised only if they satisfy the criteria set out in the Recognition of Divorces and Legal Separations Act 1977. A marriage will be recognised in Bermuda if it was valid under the law of the place of celebration and each party had the capacity to marry under the law of their domicile.<\/p>\n<p>Civil partnerships or similar unions formed overseas may be recognised as domestic partnerships under the Domestic Partnership Act 2018 if they meet the statutory definition.<\/p>\n<p>Customary or religious marriages conducted in Bermuda must comply with the formalities of the Marriage Act 1944, such as notice, licence and registration, to be legally valid. A purely religious ceremony without those formalities does not create a recognised marriage. Religious or customary marriages validly celebrated abroad will be recognised if compliant with the law of the country where performed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are same sex marriages \/ unions recognised in your jurisdiction and if so, how?  Does your jurisdiction recognise same sex marriages \/ unions that have taken place in another jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Same-sex marriage is no longer lawful in Bermuda. The Domestic Partnership Act 2018 establishes a legal framework for same-sex or opposite-sex couples to register domestic partnerships, which provide comparable rights and protections to marriage. Overseas same-sex marriages are not recognised as marriages under Bermudian law but may be treated as domestic partnerships if they satisfy the statutory definition of an \u201coverseas relationship\u201d within the Act.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the substantive financial orders (e.g. capital, property, pensions and maintenance \/ alimony) the court can make?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The court has wide powers under sections 27 and 28 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974 to make one or more of the following orders:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>periodical payments (spousal maintenance) for any term the court considers appropriate;<\/li>\n<li>lump-sum or sums provision for either party;<\/li>\n<li>lump-sum provision for the benefit of a child;<\/li>\n<li>transfer or settlement of specific property to a spouse, a child of the family, or a third person for a child\u2019s benefit;<\/li>\n<li>variation of a nuptial settlement or trust created for the benefit of either spouse or a child of the family.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Act does not expressly empower the court to order the sale of property, to make pension-sharing orders, or to impose a \u201cclean-break\u201d dismissal of future claims without consent.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the guiding principles adopted in your jurisdiction in relation to the division of assets?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The Bermuda courts adopt the same overarching principles of fairness developed in the English authorities of <em>White v White<\/em> and <em>Miller v Miller; McFarlane v McFarlane<\/em>. Equality is the starting point, but not a presumption, and the court applies the three strands of fairness: needs, compensation, and sharing.<\/p>\n<p>The sharing principle applies only to matrimonial property defined as the property generated during the marriage through the joint or sole endeavours of the spouses.<\/p>\n<p>Non-matrimonial property defined as inherited property, gifts, pre-marital property and post-separation accrual are typically excluded from sharing unless:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>they have been so intermingled as to become part of the matrimonial acquest; or<\/li>\n<li>the other party\u2019s needs (particularly housing needs) cannot be met without resort to them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This reflects the modern English position as developed in Hart v Hart, on the limits of ring-fencing after intermingling, <em>Waggott v Waggott<\/em> which confirms that income streams and earning capacity are not subject to the sharing principle, and most recently <em>Standish v Standish,<\/em> whether non-matrimonial property has become \u2018matrimonialised\u2019.<\/p>\n<p>The Bermuda courts adopt the non-discrimination principle in White: the roles of breadwinner and homemaker carry equal weight, and neither role justifies a greater share of matrimonial property.<\/p>\n<p>Departure from equality may therefore be justified based on:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the non-matrimonial source of assets;<\/li>\n<li>needs and liquidity constraints;<\/li>\n<li>short marriage or minimal mingling of property; or<\/li>\n<li>compensation in rare cases where one party suffered measurable financial disadvantage due to the marriage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Can the court make interim financial provision during proceedings? (including for legal and interim maintenance \/ alimony costs) during the proceedings, and what factors are taken into account?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Under section 26 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974, the court may order \u201cmaintenance pending suit\u201d, requiring either spouse to make periodical payments to the other during proceedings. Such orders are made to ensure financial stability and equitable access to representation and can include sums earmarked for legal fees.<\/p>\n<p>In determining the quantum, the court assesses the applicant\u2019s immediate needs, the respondent\u2019s means, and proportionality, striking a balance between maintaining reasonable living standards and avoiding undue hardship for the paying spouse.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How is ongoing spousal maintenance \/ alimony dealt with \u2013 is it typically awarded for a fixed term or on an ongoing basis? Is there a standard formula for calculating the amount and duration, or do judges retain discretion?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>There is no statutory formula. The court retains broad discretion to determine the amount and duration of maintenance based on the parties\u2019 respective means, needs, earning capacities, age and health, and the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage.<\/p>\n<p>Orders may be made for a fixed term or on an open basis. Maintenance ceases automatically on the death or remarriage of the recipient. The court cannot unilaterally impose a clean-break termination but will encourage the parties to agree one where feasible, in keeping with the Privy Council\u2019s guidance in <em>De Lasala v De Lasala<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the process for recognising and enforcing foreign financial orders?  How is enforcement dealt with to ensure compliance with financial orders following divorce in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Bermuda has a narrow statutory regime for recognising and enforcing overseas orders. Foreign maintenance and financial orders may be recognised and enforced under the following regimes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Maintenance Orders (Reciprocal Enforcement) Act 1974<\/strong>, which allows registration and enforcement of maintenance orders made in designated reciprocating countries. The Designation Order 1975 lists the recognised countries such as the UK, certain US states and Caribbean jurisdictions. In <em>McElroy v Nearon<\/em>, the Supreme Court confirmed that the Magistrates\u2019 Court may vary a registered foreign maintenance order only in limited circumstances. For example, where both parties reside in Bermuda, the payee applies, or the variation seeks only a reduction based on a change in the payer\u2019s circumstances and the foreign court cannot confirm provisional variations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Judgments (Reciprocal Enforcement) Act 1958<\/strong>, which permits registration of money judgments from superior courts of recognised countries.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Trusts (Special Provisions) Act 1989<\/strong>, sections 10 and 11 of which apply where enforcement is sought against assets held in Bermuda trusts, providing significant protection to Bermuda trust structures.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Common law enforcement<\/strong>, where a foreign judgment outside these frameworks can be enforced by an action on the judgment and summary application under the Rules of the Supreme Court (<em>Ellefsen v Ellefsen, Civil Jurisdiction No 202 of 1993<\/em>).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Domestic enforcement tools include attachment of earnings, garnishee proceedings, distress against goods, and, in wilful default cases, committal to prison. The Supreme Court may also direct that payments be made to the Magistrates\u2019 Court clerk for collection and enforcement.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Can financial claims be made in your jurisdiction after an overseas divorce?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Yes, but only in limited circumstances. Where a foreign divorce or legal separation is recognised in Bermuda, the Supreme Court may make financial orders under Part IV of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974, but solely in relation to land or an interest in land situated in Bermuda. In exercising that power, the court may take account of any provision made overseas and of the overall fairness of the outcome.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Does your jurisdiction operate a marital property regime and if so, which?  Is there a default matrimonial property regime? Are foreign property regimes recognised and if not, in what circumstances?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Bermuda does not operate a formal matrimonial property regime. There is no system of community or separation of property during marriage. On divorce, property division is determined by the court\u2019s discretionary powers under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974, guided by fairness and the statutory factors in section 29.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign property regimes are not automatically applied but may be considered as part of the factual matrix if relevant to the parties\u2019 intentions or if assets are governed by a foreign jurisdiction.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">To what extent are pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements binding? Is it different if the prenuptial or post nuptial agreement was concluded in your jurisdiction (as opposed to another jurisdiction)?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>There is no local legislation expressly governing marital agreements, but the Bermuda courts attach substantial weight to them. The Privy Council\u2019s decision in <em>McLeod v McLeod [2008] UKPC 64<\/em> (binding on Bermuda) confirmed the enforceability of post-nuptial agreements absent unfairness or failure to make proper provision for children. The UK Supreme Court\u2019s reasoning in <em>Radmacher v Granatino [2010] UKSC 42<\/em> is highly persuasive and reflects the modern approach that freely entered agreements, made with full appreciation of their implications, should generally be upheld unless manifestly unfair.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign pre- or post-nuptial agreements are likely to be respected if valid under the law of the place where executed and consistent with Bermuda\u2019s principles of fairness. In the absence of local precedent, Bermuda courts are expected to follow the Radmacher line of reasoning.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How is maintenance for a child dealt with in your jurisdiction? What is the duration of a child maintenance order?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Child maintenance may be ordered in the Supreme Court as part of divorce proceedings under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974, or outside divorce proceedings under the Minors Act 1950 or the Children Act 1998.<\/p>\n<p>There is no formula for assessing child maintenance in Bermuda. The court exercises a broad discretion under section 29(2) of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974, considering factors such as the child\u2019s needs, any disability, available resources, the pre-separation standard of living, and the expectations for the child\u2019s education and upbringing.<\/p>\n<p>The guiding principle is to balance the child\u2019s needs with the parents\u2019 respective means, ensuring the child\u2019s best interests are met.<\/p>\n<p>In <em>M v W [2010] Bda LR 87<\/em>, the Court of Appeal held that:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>both parents have a joint obligation to maintain their child;<\/li>\n<li>a 50\/50 starting point may be appropriate,<\/li>\n<li>but apportionment must be adjusted to reflect all circumstances, including each parent\u2019s ability to contribute; and<\/li>\n<li>the court should avoid rigid mathematical formulas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In <em>F v F [2014] Bda LR 21<\/em>, Miller J emphasised that in modest-asset cases the key question is how the children\u2019s needs can realistically be met. The welfare of the child remains the primary consideration.<\/p>\n<p>Under the Matrimonial Causes Act, the obligation generally continues until the child turns 18, but may extend beyond that age if the child is undertaking education or vocational training or if special circumstances (such as disability) justify continued support. Under the Children Act 1998, support continues while the child is in full-time education or unable to support themselves by reason of illness, disability or other cause. Orders may bind the payer\u2019s estate unless varied.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">With the exception of child maintenance, does the court have power to make any orders for financial provision for a child, e.g. housing and\/or capital sums?  If so, in what circumstances?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The court has relatively broad powers to make financial provision for children.<\/p>\n<p>In divorce proceedings, the Supreme Court may make orders for financial provision for the benefit of the children within financial ancillary relief proceedings pursuant to a divorce governed by the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974.<\/p>\n<p>Outside divorce, section 12 of the Minors Act 1950 gives the Supreme Court wide discretion to make any financial order it considers appropriate for a minor\u2019s maintenance, welfare or management of property. Similar powers exist in the Magistrates\u2019 Court under the Children Act 1998, including the ability to order lump sums, secured payments, or payment for prenatal and birth-related expenses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is cohabitation recognised and if so, how?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Cohabiting partners, whether opposite-sex or same-sex, do not acquire the rights or claims available to spouses on relationship breakdown.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What financial claims, if any, do cohabitees have when they separate and how are such claims determined i.e. what are the guiding principles?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>There is no statutory framework giving cohabitees financial rights on separation. Unmarried partners therefore cannot seek spousal-type remedies and are limited to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>claims for child support; and<\/li>\n<li>property claims under general law.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Where property is jointly owned, the Partition Acts 1855 and 1914 permit orders for sale or division. Equal legal ownership is the starting point, but the courts have held that beneficial ownership may differ (<em>Hassell v Furbert and Wellman v Wellman<\/em>) share assessed by contribution.<\/p>\n<p>The Supreme Court has made clear that matrimonial remedies cannot be extended to cohabitees. In <em>Stevens v Astwood,<\/em> the court declined to impose a Mesher-type order, holding that such interference with property rights requires legislation and could otherwise breach the Bermuda Constitution. The judgment highlighted the need for law reform.<\/p>\n<p>Where property is not jointly owned, a cohabitant must rely on constructive or resulting trust principles.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the legal status of separated parents in relation to their children? Does it make a difference if the parents were never married?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The Children Act 1998 governs parental responsibility in Bermuda. Under section 18A, a child is the child of their natural parents regardless of whether the parents were ever married. Marital status creates no distinction in parental responsibility.<\/p>\n<p>Under section 36C, the mother and father are joint guardians and equally entitled to custody unless a court orders otherwise. Where a child resides with one parent with the other\u2019s agreement, the non-resident parent\u2019s custodial decision-making authority is suspended, but their right to access remains intact until varied.<\/p>\n<p>Adoptive parents obtain full parental rights and responsibilities upon the making of an adoption order under the Adoption of Children Act 2006.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the jurisdictional requirements for child arrangements\/child custody proceedings?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Jurisdiction is set out in section 36L of the Children Act 1998. The Magistrates\u2019 Court has jurisdiction where the child is habitually resident in Bermuda at the start of proceedings.<\/p>\n<p>If the child is not habitually resident, the court may assume jurisdiction only if the statutory criteria are satisfied, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the child is physically present in Bermuda;<\/li>\n<li>substantial welfare evidence exists in Bermuda;<\/li>\n<li>no overseas custody application is pending;<\/li>\n<li>no relevant foreign order has been recognised by a Bermuda court;<\/li>\n<li>the child has a real and substantial connection with Bermuda; and<\/li>\n<li>on the balance of convenience, Bermuda is the appropriate forum.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Supreme Court may also determine child arrangements pursuant to section 2 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1974 (within divorce proceedings), or under section 12 of the Minors Act 1950, where the child is present in Bermuda and by considering the welfare of the child.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the legal position in relation to contact following the breakdown of a relationship? What types of orders can the court make in relation to child custody\/a child\u2019s living arrangements and what are the guiding principles?  What steps are followed to hear the voice of the child?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The Children Act 1998 permits orders relating to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>custody (decision-making),<\/li>\n<li>care and control (living arrangements), and<\/li>\n<li>access (contact).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The guiding principle under section 6 is that the child\u2019s welfare is the first and paramount consideration. Bermuda does not operate a presumption in favour of either parent; the court focuses on arrangements that best promote the child\u2019s stability, safety and development.<\/p>\n<p>The child\u2019s views may be obtained through:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>a Social Inquiry Report;<\/li>\n<li>a Litigation Guardian;<\/li>\n<li>or, where appropriate, the court speaking with the child directly in a developmentally appropriate manner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The weight given to a child\u2019s views increases with age and maturity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the rules relating to the relocation of a child within and outside your jurisdiction and what are the guiding principles?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>A parent may not permanently relocate a child outside Bermuda without the consent of the joint custodial parent or a court order.<\/p>\n<p>Relocation applications are determined under the overarching welfare principle. The court evaluates:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the relocating parent\u2019s plans and motivation;<\/li>\n<li>schooling, housing, and family support available;<\/li>\n<li>the practicality of maintaining the child\u2019s relationship with the other parent; and<\/li>\n<li>the impact on the child\/parent if the application is granted or refused.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the process for recognising and enforcing foreign orders for contact\/custody of children?  Does your court operate a system of mirror orders?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Recognition of foreign custody and access orders is governed by section 36P of the Children Act 1998. A foreign order must be recognised unless one of the statutory exceptions applies &#8211; for example, where:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the respondent did not receive reasonable notice of the overseas proceedings;<\/li>\n<li>the respondent was not given an opportunity to be heard;<\/li>\n<li>the foreign court did not apply a welfare-based test;<\/li>\n<li>recognition would be contrary to public policy or the child\u2019s welfare;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Once recognised, the court may make such further orders as the court considers necessary to give effect to the order.<\/p>\n<p>Bermuda does not use a formal \u201cmirror order\u201d system, but the courts will make local orders reflecting the terms of overseas orders to secure enforceability and protect jurisdictional clarity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the legal position on international abduction? Is your jurisdiction a signatory of The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 1980?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Bermuda is a contracting state to the 1980 Hague Convention which was implemented domestically through the International Child Abduction Act 1998. The Convention requires the prompt return of children wrongfully removed from their state of habitual residence.<\/p>\n<p>A significant limitation was highlighted in <em>VB v TR [2020] EWHC 877<\/em>, which confirmed that the Convention does not apply between Bermuda and the UK because British Overseas Territories are treated as part of the same state for Convention purposes. As a result, wrongful removal from Bermuda to the UK falls outside the Convention, and UK courts may only recognise Bermuda return orders at common law, consistent with <em>C v C (Jersey) [2019] UKPC 40.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the status of surrogacy arrangements and are surrogates permitted to be paid? Is surrogacy available to individuals and cohabiting couples (both heterosexual and same-sex)?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Bermuda has no dedicated surrogacy legislation. Surrogacy arrangements are not unlawful, but there are no domestic statutory framework governing enforceability, parental status, or regulation of arrangements.<\/p>\n<p>There is no prohibition on compensated surrogacy, and there is no statutory guidance on what constitutes permissible reimbursement.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the legal position in relation to adoption? Is adoption available to individuals and cohabiting couples (both heterosexual and same-sex)?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Adoption in Bermuda is governed by the Adoption of Children Act 2006 (as amended) and the associated Regulations and Rules. Applications are made in the Magistrates\u2019 Court.<\/p>\n<p>Under the Act, the following may apply to adopt:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>couples (including unmarried and same-sex couples) who have lived together continuously for at least one year \u2013 confirmed in AB and the Director and AG [2014];<\/li>\n<li>relatives jointly with a parent; or<\/li>\n<li>individuals who have had the child in their care for at least three months (or a shorter period approved by the court).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The court has jurisdiction where the child or the person with parental responsibility is resident in Bermuda (s.25 ACA 2006). The welfare of the child is the paramount consideration (s.3). The Director of Child and Family Services oversees approvals, home studies and placements (ss.6, 9, 10).<\/p>\n<p>Consent is generally required from the child (if 12or over), each parent, and any guardian, although the court may dispense with consent where the statutory grounds are met (ss.15\u201319).<\/p>\n<p>Once an adoption order is made, the child becomes the child of the adopter(s) for all legal purposes and all prior parental rights are extinguished (s.41). Overseas adoptions and placements require the approval of the Director and, in some cases, the court (ss.11, 46\u201348).<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What forms of non-court dispute resolution (including mediation) are available in your jurisdiction? Is non-court dispute resolution mandatory? What is the status of agreements reached via NCDR?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Bermuda offers a range of non-court dispute-resolution options. Mediation is well-established and most commonly used in both children and financial matters. Although mediation is generally voluntary, the Children Act 1998 allows the court to direct parties to attend mediation where an access order has not been complied with (s.36F(2)(b)). The Act also envisages a Co-Parenting Mediation Council (s.36GA), although the full scheme has not yet been brought into force.<\/p>\n<p>Collaborative law is another option, conducted through accredited collaborative lawyers who commit the parties to resolving issues without litigation. If the process fails, those lawyers must withdraw, which strongly incentivises settlement.<\/p>\n<p>Family arbitration, introduced by the Family Law (Financial Scheme) Arbitration Rules 2019 and supported by the Arbitration Act 1986, provides a private, binding forum for financial disputes arising out of marriage, partnership or cohabitation, as well as certain parenting and estate-related issues. Awards are binding subject to limited appeal or review.<\/p>\n<p>Outcomes reached in mediation or collaborative law are not automatically binding and must be converted into a consent order to have legal effect. Arbitration awards may be incorporated into a court order and then enforced in the same manner as any other financial order.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Which areas of family law are likely to see reform in the near future?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>There is broad consensus that Bermuda\u2019s family-law framework requires significant modernisation. Practitioners have identified a number of structural gaps and recommended substantial legislative and procedural reform. Key areas likely to see change include:<\/p>\n<h4>Modern dispute-resolution processes.<\/h4>\n<p>Bermuda lacks a mandatory pre-action or conciliation stage. There is growing momentum for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>mandatory mediation in children cases;<\/li>\n<li>a structured Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR) model, similar to that used in England and Wales;<\/li>\n<li>clearer protocols for non-court dispute resolution and more consistent use of mediation in children disputes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Domestic-violence legislation.<\/h4>\n<p>The Domestic Violence (Protection Orders) Act 1997 is regarded as outdated. Calls for reform include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>modernised definitions of abuse (coercive control, financial abuse, technological abuse);<\/li>\n<li>streamlined emergency protection options;<\/li>\n<li>stronger enforcement mechanisms;<\/li>\n<li>better integration between criminal and family-law responses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Surrogacy<\/h4>\n<p>Bermuda has no surrogacy legislation. There is an increasing need for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>a statutory framework regulating domestic and international surrogacy;<\/li>\n<li>guidance on compensation;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Cohabitation and property rights<\/h4>\n<p>There is no statutory scheme for the financial consequences of cohabitation breakdown.<\/p>\n<h4>Court structure and procedure.<\/h4>\n<p>Proposals remain under consideration for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>a Unified Family Court;<\/li>\n<li>simplified applications and case-management pathways;<\/li>\n<li>specialist judicial training; and<\/li>\n<li>improved access to legal information and early intervention services.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Recent reforms, such as the introduction of no-fault divorce in 2023, are generally viewed as the first step in what is expected to be a wider programme of reform.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are family proceedings conducted in private? Is the press allowed to attend hearings? Are judgments made public?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Family proceedings concerning children are heard in private under section 17 of the Children Act 1998. Attendance is restricted to parties, their representatives and those authorised by the court. Publication of identifying information relating to wardship, custody, access, guardianship or adoption is restricted by the Administration of Justice (Contempt of Court) Act 1979.<\/p>\n<p>Divorce records are not open to public inspection without the permission of the Registrar or the court under the Matrimonial Causes Rules 2023. Press attendance is possible only with leave, and the court will balance the principle of open justice against the strong statutory and common-law protections afforded to children and families.<\/p>\n<p>Judgments may be published where appropriate, usually in anonymised form, particularly if the case raises an important point of law or wider public interest.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How does relationship breakdown impact death and estate planning?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Relationship breakdown has significant implications for estate planning. Under the Wills Act 1988, a former spouse is treated as having predeceased the testator unless the will expressly states otherwise, meaning gifts or appointments in their favour generally lapse once the marriage ends.<\/p>\n<p>Financial claims after death fall under the Succession Act 1974. A surviving spouse may apply for reasonable financial provision (ss.13\u201314), and a former spouse who has not remarried may also claim, though their entitlement is usually limited to maintenance. Where financial issues remain unresolved at death, section 23B allows the court, in some circumstances, to treat the parties as if they were still married for the purposes of a claim.<\/p>\n<p>The court\u2019s powers under the Succession Act often mirror those available in divorce, including lump-sum orders, property adjustment and variation of settlements, ensuring that appropriate provision can still be made after death. As a result, immediate review of wills, beneficiary designations, survivorship arrangements, trusts and insurance is essential when a relationship ends, particularly for cohabiting couples who lack statutory inheritance rights.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n<div class=\"word-count-hidden\" style=\"display:none;\">Estimated word count: <span class=\"word-count\">4939<\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<\/ol>\r\n\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/twentyseventeen\/src\/jquery\/components\/filter-guides.js\" async><\/script><\/div>"}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide\/120786","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/comparative_guide"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=120786"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}