Family Law

​​Updated: April 22, 2025

At Ermina Papasolomou Co & LLC, we provide compassionate and professional support in all areas of Cyprus family law. Family disputes can be stressful and emotional — our role is to guide you through the legal process with care, discretion, and expertise.

We assist clients across Cyprus, including Limassol, Nicosia, Paphos, Larnaca, and Famagusta, handling cases in all family courts.​​

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⚖️What Does Cyprus Family Law Cover?

Cyprus Family Law (family law in Cyprus, Cyprus family lawyers) regulates legal matters arising after separation or divorce. Our family lawyers in Cyprus assist with:

• Divorce applications

• Child custody & parental communication rights (child custody Cyprus)

• Child and spousal maintenance (alimony)

• Division of marital property

• Adoption, guardianship, and parental rights

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👉 The Cyprus Family Courts have exclusive jurisdiction over all family law disputes. Separate courts also exist for recognised religious groups.

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💔 Divorce in Cyprus

• Either spouse may file for divorce at the District Family Court provided they have legally resided in Cyprus for at least 3 months. Our divorce lawyers in Cyprus prepare and file all required documents.

• A divorce petition includes details of the marriage, children (if any), and the grounds for divorce.
  The Court may order one spouse to cover legal costs depending on fault.

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Key points to know:

• Divorce petitions are served to the other spouse. If they fail to respond or appoint a lawyer, the case can proceed ex parte

• Recent reforms allow certain divorces to be granted on the basis of a sworn affidavit—reducing the need for courtroom testimony

• If both parties agree, our Cyprus divorce lawyers can finalise an uncontested divorce quickly and efficiently

• Divorce decrees do not include reasons for the divorce — only confirmation that the marriage is dissolved

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⏱️ How Long Does It Take?

• Uncontested divorce: approx. 1.5–2 months

• Contested divorce: 9–18 months depending on complexity

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💶 Costs of Divorce in Cyprus

• Court fees (stamps & bailiff): ~ €200

• Lawyer fees: ~ €800 + VAT for uncontested divorce (divorce lawyer Cyprus cost varies depending on disputes)

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🏠 Division of Property After Divorce

Cyprus law recognises marital property as property acquired:

• During cohabitation before marriage (with intent to marry)

• During the marriage

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What is not divided:

• Property owned before the relationship

• Property received as a gift or inheritance from parents/family

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The Family Court considers:

• Each spouse’s financial contribution

• Property value on the date of separation

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If spouses cannot reach an agreement, the Court issues a decision after reviewing both parties’ evidence. Our property division lawyers in Cyprus guide clients through every step.

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👶Child Custody & Parental Communication

Our child custody lawyers in Cyprus help parents secure their rights after separation.

After divorce, custody is usually granted to one parent, while the other receives communication rights.

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If the parents agree, the Court issues an order quickly.

If they disagree, the Court relies on:

• Written submissions

• A Welfare Office report (home visits + child’s opinion)

 

📌 The child’s best interests always guide the Court’s decision.

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💵 Child Maintenance (Support)

Both parents must support their children until age 18. Courts in Cyprus determine maintenance based on:

• The child’s needs

• Each parent’s financial situation

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If no agreement is reached, the Cyprus Family Court issues a maintenance order.
Non-payment may lead to an arrest warrant.

 

Adult children in full-time education may also claim maintenance.

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⚡ Urgent Maintenance Orders (Ex-Parte)

If a parent with custody receives no support, they may request an urgent (ex-parte) maintenance order.
The Court can issue temporary financial support without notifying the other parent when criteria are met.