International Custody Attorney In Bloomfield Hills And Metro Detroit

Last updated on April 8, 2026

International custody disputes arise when parents live in different countries, hold dual citizenship or fear a child may be taken abroad without permission. These cases involve complex legal frameworks, including international treaties, passport restrictions and determinations of habitual residence. An international custody lawyer in Bloomfield Hills can navigate cross-border custody issues and protect parental rights when children face potential removal from the United States.

Attorney Lisa D. Stern has over 30 years of experience handling complex custody matters, including international parental abduction cases. She represents families throughout metro Detroit facing custody disputes that cross international borders.

Preventing International Abduction

Parents concerned about international abduction can take legal steps to prevent unauthorized travel. Courts can order passport restrictions that prevent a child from obtaining or using a passport. The state department maintains a Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program that notifies parents when someone applies for their child’s passport.

Custody orders can include specific provisions prohibiting international travel without consent or requiring the surrender of passports to the court or attorneys. Travel prohibitions may allow domestic travel while restricting trips outside the United States.

An international custody attorney in Bloomfield Hills can petition for emergency orders when abduction risk is imminent. These orders provide immediate protection while the broader custody case proceeds.

Questions About International Custody Matters

Parents facing international custody issues often have urgent questions about their legal options and protections. These are concerns attorney Stern addresses with clients in Oakland County and throughout metro Detroit.

What is the Hague Convention in child custody cases?

The Hague Convention is an international treaty that facilitates the return of children wrongfully removed to treaty countries. If your child is taken to a Hague Convention country without consent, you can petition for their return. The convention returns the child to their habitual residence so custody can be decided there. Time limits apply, so acting quickly is essential. A Hague Convention lawyer in Michigan can file petitions through the U.S. Central Authority.

Can Michigan courts enforce a custody order from a foreign country?

Yes, under certain circumstances. Michigan can recognize and enforce foreign custody orders if issued under circumstances substantially similar to Michigan’s jurisdictional requirements. Foreign custody enforcement is complex and may require registration proceedings. An attorney can evaluate whether the foreign order meets Michigan’s recognition standards.

Act Quickly To Protect Your Child

International custody matters require immediate legal action to prevent wrongful removal or secure a child’s return. Lisa D. Stern provides experienced representation in cross-border custody disputes. Her three decades of family law experience includes handling emergency petitions and Hague Convention cases.

Contact Lisa D. Stern at 248-973-7842 or online immediately if you face international custody concerns. Virtual consultations are available for urgent matters.

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