Legislative Reforms in Family Law: Update from Demetriou & Demetriou LLC Law Firm

The House of Representatives has recently passed legislative amendments modernizing the provisions of the Marriage Law (Law 104(I)/2003), the Family Courts Law (Law 23/1990), and the Attempt at Reconciliation and Spiritual Dissolution of Marriage Law (Law 22/1990).These changes are crucial for improving the functioning of family law, aiming primarily to expedite case hearings, protect children’s rights, promote equality between parents, and normalize family relationships. At our law firm, Demetriou & Demetriou LLC, we closely monitor these developments, providing accurate guidance and support to our clients for the optimal management of family disputes.

Key Amendments to the Family Courts Law (Law 23/1990)

The most significant reforms include:

Simplification of the hearing process: Divorce cases are now heard by a single judge, replacing the previous three-judge panel.
Expanded jurisdiction of judges: Judges can hear all cases involving the same parties regardless of district or religious affiliation.
Comprehensive hearing of disputes with a single application: Family Courts can address issues of maintenance, parental custody, and use of family property through a unified process, reducing unnecessary costs and inconvenience for the parties.
Child protection: Judges may, on their own initiative, order counseling or psychological support for children without parental consent if deemed in the child’s best interest.

Amendments to the Attempt at Reconciliation and Spiritual Dissolution of Marriage Law (Law 22/1990)

Simplification of notification procedure: Notification for the dissolution of a religious marriage can now be sent electronically, and the deadline for filing a lawsuit is reduced to 6 weeks.

Exception due to violence: In cases of severe breakdown caused by violence, a divorce application may be filed without prior notification if a complaint has been lodged with the competent authorities.

Amendments to the Marriage Law (Law 104(I)/2003)

Introduction of consensual divorce: Divorce by mutual consent of the spouses is now possible, provided at least six months have passed since the marriage and issues of parental custody and visitation, if minor children exist, have been settled.

Reduction of separation period: The separation period that conclusively presumes the breakdown of the relationship has been reduced from 4 years to 2 years.

Our Family Law Services

At Demetriou & Demetriou LLC, we are committed to serving our clients with professionalism and sensitivity. We provide legal advice, guidance, and representation across the full spectrum of family law, emphasizing mediation and out-of-court dispute resolution. In cases where court representation is unavoidable, our lawyers dedicate themselves fully to defending your interests.