Brief Explanation: Problem and Solution in Cases of Double Non-Recognition

A particularly complex situation in international family law arises when:

two foreign divorces are not recognized in Germany.

This means:
A man has married twice abroad and divorced twice – but under German law, he is still considered to be married to two women at the same time.

This problem frequently occurs in divorces from countries such as:

  • Syria
  • Lebanon
  • Iraq
  • Jordan

especially in cases of religious divorces (e.g., Sharia-based proceedings).

❗ The Problem in Germany

Even if the divorces are valid abroad, German law provides:

  • The first divorce is not recognized → the first marriage continues to exist
  • The second divorce is not recognized → the second marriage also continues to exist

👉 Result:

Under German law, two marriages exist at the same time.

This situation is legally problematic and must be resolved.

⚠️ Typical Consequences of Double Non-Recognition

An unclear marital status can lead to serious problems, such as:

  • difficulties with remarriage in Germany
  • problems with family reunification / visas
  • complications with authorities and civil registry offices
  • uncertainties regarding maintenance and inheritance
  • issues concerning children and legal parentage

👉 Without clarification, the legal situation remains permanently uncertain.

⚖️ The Solution: Divorce Proceedings in Germany

The legally correct solution is clear:

Both marriages must be divorced again in Germany.

This means:

  • Separate divorce proceedings for each marriage
  • Proceedings before German family courts
  • Independent of the divorces already carried out abroad

This generally requires:

  • initiation of two divorce proceedings
  • clarification of international jurisdiction
  • possible conversion into a non-recognition procedure before the Higher Regional Court (OLG)
  • service of documents on both spouses (including abroad)

👉 Only then will there be a legally clear marital status.

❓ Is This a Criminal Offense?

Many affected individuals ask:

“Am I committing a criminal offense if I am considered married to two women under German law?”

The clear answer in these cases:

👉 No – generally not.

Why?

  • The marriages and divorces were concluded abroad under local law
  • The lack of recognition results from differences between legal systems
  • There is usually no intentional criminal conduct

👉 However, it is important:

The situation must be legally resolved.

👨‍⚖️ Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer

Cases of double non-recognition are among the most complex areas of family law.

They require:

  • experience in international divorce law
  • knowledge of Higher Regional Court (OLG) case law on recognition
  • secure handling of multiple parallel proceedings
  • experience with foreign documents and international service

Mistakes can lead to:

  • long delays
  • additional costs
  • legal disadvantages

✅ Your Solution: Legal Clarity for Your Marital Status

I have over 25 years of experience in international family law and have handled numerous cases involving:

  • two foreign marriages
  • two non-recognized divorces
  • the need to re-divorce both marriages in Germany

I will support you in:

  • correctly assessing your legal situation
  • initiating the necessary divorce proceedings
  • achieving a clear and legally secure solution

📞 Get Legal Advice Now

Have you:

  • married twice abroad
  • divorced abroad
  • and discovered that these divorces are not recognized in Germany?

👉 Then have your situation reviewed.

We are happy to assist you. Simply fill out our divorce form or contact us directly:

Phone (Germany): 02331 409319
Phone (international): +49 2331 409319
Mobile: +491721570178
Email: info@twitting.eu
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