Rencontre de la commission du droit de la famille à Monaco

Dear Members and Friends,

For the second consecutive year, the Family Law Commission and the International Estate Planning Commission joined forces to organise a joint meeting, inviting members to bring colleagues and friends to discover more about the UIA and its unique international network. This year, we were delighted to host this special gathering in the Principality of Monaco.

Set against the remarkable backdrop of Monaco, renowned for its international outlook and accessibility, participants travelled from across jurisdictions, arriving by train, car, plane and even helicopter, reflecting both the diversity of our membership and the global reach of the UIA.

We were privileged to enjoy a truly memorable social programme put together by our generous host, Jean-Charles Gardetto. Highlights included an exceptional visit to the Court of Monaco, where participants were welcomed in a distinguished institutional setting and we had the opportunity to meet the Secretary of State for Justice, Samuel Vuelta Simon, and Judges Camille Quilico-Borgia, Magali Ghenessie and Anne Sophie Hudsrt, followed by a convivial visit to the Casino de Monte-Carlo, providing a relaxed and elegant environment to continue conversations.

The academic programme consisted of three engaging and thought-provoking panels. The first explored the practicalities of doing business in Monaco, offering valuable local insight. The following two panels focused on the concepts of residence and domicile, highlighting the differences in interpretation across jurisdictions and their significant impact on family law proceedings. In particular, discussions emphasised the contrasting approaches to jurisdiction, including the importance in many jurisdictions of the timing of service of proceedings as opposed to the lodging of the application—illustrating the richness and complexity of comparative legal practice.

Beyond the academic content, the meeting provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen professional ties, exchange ideas, and introduce new colleagues to the collaborative and international spirit that defines the UIA.

We extend our sincere thanks to our host, Jean-Charles Gardetto, as well as to all those who contributed to the organisation of this successful event. We are equally grateful to all participants whose presence and engagement made this gathering so special.

We look forward to welcoming you to our future events and continuing to grow our vibrant international community.

With kind regards,

Carolina MARÍN PEDREÑO
President of the UIA Family Law Commission
Dawson Cornwell LLP
London, United Kingdom