In this episode, we’re revisiting one of the most talked-about topics we’ve ever covered: divorce in Monaco. It may not be the lightest subject, but it’s certainly one that touches many lives here in the Principality, and the interest around it has been enormous.
To guide us through this complex and often misunderstood terrain, I’m joined by Raphaëlle Svara, Partner at CMS Monaco and co-head of the Private Clients team. Raphaëlle specialises in family law and cross-border matters, making her the perfect person to help us understand why divorce in Monaco is rarely straightforward.
In our conversation, we cover the key questions anyone should be asking before considering a divorce here: from how jurisdiction can completely change the outcome of a case, to what Monaco’s matrimonial regimes mean in practice, how custody of children is handled, and why preparation is absolutely essential. We also look at how the courts view issues like infidelity, financial support, and whether it’s better to fight it out in court or aim for an amicable agreement.
If you’ve ever wondered how Monaco’s unique legal system compares to countries like France or the UK, or what really happens behind closed doors when wealth, children, and international laws collide — this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Episode guide:
1.20 mins: Why is divorcing in Monaco never as simple as we may think?
2.20 mins: What are some of the most important things an individual—whether male or female—should be considering when they’re possibly thinking about getting a divorce in Monaco?
3.22 mins: What I found really interesting in talking about this with you was the issue of jurisdiction. Why is this so important?
4.30 mins: And we’re talking about the rights of individuals in the couple when we’re talking about why it’s more interesting for one party than the other?
5.06 mins: Can you explain for us: are there any “red flag” countries that are the worst for the lower-earning spouse?
5.51 mins: Monaco is such a unique place—unlike anywhere else in the world. Can you tell us what the law looks like here?
6.18 mins: What is a matrimonial regime?
7.09 mins: What’s the difference between common law and civil law in this context?
9.02 mins: Let’s talk about kids. Divorce is always messy—it’s never nice. Even though people may go into it saying, “We’ll be amicable,” I’m sure it can still get ugly.
10.01 mins: How do you break the “It’s my money” dynamic in court?
11.05 mins: How long can someone—say, a mother or financially weaker spouse—expect to receive support?
12.22 mins: Does cheating on your spouse affect what you get by law?
13.49 mins: How important is it—if you’re considering getting a divorce in Monaco—to prepare proof, financial statements, and really study your partner’s financial situation before launching proceedings?
14.39 mins: Even though you’re a lawyer and this is your business, you encourage clients to settle before it gets to court. Why?
15.55 mins: I appreciate your honesty there—it’s important. A lot of people think lawyers are only in it for the money, but you also work as mediators.
17.07 mins: So we are in Monaco, where often the man is the wealthier spouse in the marriage—what’s it like working with female clients? Is it satisfying when the divorce is finally over?
18.33 mins: What are your top pieces of advice for anyone considering getting a divorce in Monaco?
See more in Cassandra Tanti and RaphaĂ«lle Svara’s original interview below…
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Photo credit: Richard McCreery, Monaco Life