ENGLISH-SPEAKING LAWYER IN TOKYO
Divorcing in Japan?
When one spouse is not Japanese, which law applies and how custody works both matter more than usual.
Yusuke Abe, attorney
Admitted in Japan and New York · English & Japanese
- You or your spouse is not Japanese
- You are worried about custody of your children
- Your spouse has proposed a divorce by agreement
JAPANESE LAW
Three things to know
- 01
Japanese law often applies
If one spouse is Japanese and lives in Japan, Japanese law governs the divorce.
Act on General Rules for Application of Laws, Art. 27
- 02
Divorce by agreement
Under Japanese law a couple can divorce simply by filing a notification at the city office.
Civil Code, Arts. 763 and 764
- 03
Joint custody is now an option
Since April 2026, parents can choose joint or sole parental authority. If they cannot agree, the family court decides.
Civil Code, Art. 819 (as amended)
General information as of November 2026. Your situation may differ — please ask us.
HOW WE HELP
What we can do
- Which law and which court apply
- Custody, visitation and child support
- Negotiating a divorce agreement in Japanese
- Family court mediation and litigation
Yusuke Abe
Representative attorney
- Admitted in Japan (2018) and New York (2024)
- Anderson Mori & Tomotsune; Anderson Mori & Tomotsune (Thailand)
- LL.M., Fordham University · Marshall Suzuki Law Group, San Francisco
- Fundamentals of M&A Practice, 3rd ed. (Shojihomu, 2025)
HOW IT WORKS
Three steps
- 01
Book a time
Pick a slot online, or send a short note through the form.
- 02
30 minutes, free
Online or in Otemachi, Tokyo — in English. No need to be in Japan.
- 03
Written estimate first
Approach and fees in writing. We start only once you agree.
FAQ
Quick answers
Will a Japanese divorce be recognized in my home country?
Not always, especially a divorce by agreement. Check this before you sign — we can tell you what to ask in your home country.
Will divorce affect my visa?
If you stay in Japan as a spouse, your status may need to change. We look at timing with you.
Can I consult without my spouse knowing?
Yes. Your consultation is confidential.
CONTACT
Tell us what is happening — in English
The first 30 minutes are free — in Japanese or English, online or in person.
Book a free consultation