Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Our team provides full English support. All consultations, documents, and communications can be conducted in English. We specialize in helping expats and foreigners navigate Chilean family law.

The initial consultation is $50,000 CLP (approximately $55 USD) and lasts about 45 minutes. During this meeting, we evaluate your case and provide a detailed quote for legal services.

Yes. We offer video consultations for clients who are abroad or in other regions of Chile. This is perfect for expats living outside Santiago or those still overseas.

It depends on the type:
• Mutual consent divorce: 2-4 months (requires 1 year of separation)
• Unilateral divorce: 6-12 months (requires 3 years of separation)
• Fault-based divorce: 8-18 months (no separation required)

Yes. You can file for unilateral divorce if you've been separated for at least 3 years. You don't need your spouse's consent.

Yes. As long as your marriage is registered with the Chilean Civil Registry (or you complete this registration), you can divorce in Chile. We regularly handle these cases.

There's no fixed percentage by law. Courts consider the child's needs and parent's income. Typical reference:
• 1 child: 25-30% of income
• 2 children: 35-40% of income
• 3+ children: 45-50% of income

Legal minimum: 40% of minimum wage per child
Legal maximum: 50% of the payer's income

Chile has international agreements (Hague Convention, Mercosur treaties) for cross-border child support enforcement. We can help you:
• Homologate the Chilean court order in the debtor's country
• File claims through the International Registry of Support Debtors
• Coordinate with foreign authorities through diplomatic channels

Shared custody means both parents have equal time with their children. Since 2023, Chilean courts increasingly favor this arrangement when viable. It requires geographic proximity and good communication between parents.

Not without your consent or court authorization. You can request a travel ban (prohibición de salida) to prevent unauthorized international travel. If children are taken without permission, Chile follows the Hague Convention for international child return.