Ayouby Law Firm

International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA)

Comprehensive Legal Solutions for Your Needs

When a child is wrongfully removed or retained across international borders, our experienced attorneys provide specialized legal assistance in IPCA cases. Through our organization iHOPE, we have pioneered legal strategies for securing the return of children from Lebanon despite Lebanon not being party to the Hague Convention on Child Abduction.

Our IPCA services include:
Return litigation in Lebanese courts
Embassy coordination and diplomatic liaison
Enforcement strategies for custody orders
Mediation services using culturally appropriate methods
Prevention planning for at-risk parents

We work collaboratively with international authorities and organizations to pursue the prompt and safe return of abducted children. Our track record includes successfully securing the return of children to the United States, Canada, and other countries through civil litigation strategies we developed specifically for Lebanon’s unique legal environment.

Typical Timeline:
International parental child abduction cases require 12-24 months from initial filing to enforceable return order, with emergency protective measures available within days. Cases requiring appeals may extend this timeline. Early action is critical—the longer a child remains in Lebanon, the more complex the legal arguments become.