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Legal matters

Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you have any legal concerns we suggest you consult a solicitor.

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Original poster

Divorcing with out exes address

8 replies

katscamel · 12/12/2019 17:24

My ex is Tanzanian and lives in Tanzania and despite the hope he'd be eaten by lions it hasn't happened.
I've started the divorce proceedings and applied for a dispensation of service as I have no idea where in Tanzania he's living and have no way finding out, even if I knew, the postal system is appalling.
Anyway, the dispensation was refused so I'm now wondering how to proceed. I've read that in some cases there's a substituted service that can be used in which paperwork can be done via email but does anyone know anything about this? I really don't have the £150 lawyers are charging.

OP posts:

MNHQ

FlissMumsnet · 13/12/2019 20:43

Hi katscamel,

Thanks for your post - we're not able to offer any expert advice but we hope you'll find some support and suggestions from our users.

Goodluck with locating your ex.

Collaborate · 13/12/2019 21:02

You have to research the law in Tanzania, and the method of service that the courts in Tanzania require is what you'll have to follow to be effective in UK law.

MrsBertBibby · 15/12/2019 16:18

Do you have an email address? When did he last use it? Is he on Facebook or other social media?

Has he family over here?

MrsBertBibby · 15/12/2019 16:19

Also, what fact are you relying on in the divorce?

Original poster

katscamel · 15/12/2019 17:13

We've been separated for 5 years plus so that isn't a problem. He has no friends or family (or any other connections over here. I can divorce him under UK law and have old (2017) Facebook messages saying he was agreeable. I know that though still relatively new social media/email can be used (substituted service) but just wondered if anyone knew the procedure for this.

OP posts:

MrsBertBibby · 15/12/2019 17:25

So he is active on Facebook? If you are going to apply for substituted service you need to satisfy the court that he will receive anything sent.

Original poster

katscamel · 15/12/2019 17:57

We aren't fbk friends but I believe he's still on there, it's probably more reliable than using an old email address.
You seem to know a fair bit about this MrsBB... so thanks

OP posts:

Collaborate · 15/12/2019 23:58

Substituted service is not appropriate. Take a look at 6.44 and 6.45 of this www.justice.gov.uk/courts/procedure-rules/family/parts/part_06#IDAZROIC.
The practice direction is here www.justice.gov.uk/courts/procedure-rules/family/practice_directions/pd_part_06b

If it sounds complicated, that’s because it is. You’ll need some proper legal advice from a solicitor.

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