Building International Family Law Connections: My Upcoming Exchange in Tartu.

By Terri McLaughlin, Solicitor, Child & Family Law, Caldwell & Robinson Solicitors

Later this month, I will have the opportunity to travel to Tartu, Estonia, as part of an international lawyer exchange programme organised through Avrio Advocati, the network of independent law firms of which Caldwell & Robinson Solicitors is a member.

The exchange will see me spend time with Advokaadibüroo Lillo & Lõhmus, one of Estonia's leading law firms and a valued member of the Avrio Advocati network. It is an exciting opportunity to learn more about the Estonian legal system, share experiences with fellow family law practitioners, and strengthen professional relationships that benefit our clients across borders.

International collaboration has become increasingly important in family law. Families today are more mobile than ever, and it is common for legal issues involving children, divorce, financial arrangements, relocation, or international child abduction to involve multiple jurisdictions. As solicitors, it is essential that we understand not only our own legal systems but also the practical realities faced by colleagues and clients in other countries.

What makes this exchange particularly meaningful is the longstanding relationship between Caldwell & Robinson Solicitors and Advokaadibüroo Lillo & Lõhmus. Our firms have a good  working history, including being among the contributors to an international family law guide led by Karen O'Leary, Senior Partner and Head of Child and Family Law at Caldwell & Robinson. The guide compares and contrasts family law across Avrio Advocati member jurisdictions, providing valuable insight into the legal frameworks and procedures that apply in different countries throughout the network.

This resource has become an important reference point for lawyers dealing with international family law matters, helping practitioners understand the similarities and differences between jurisdictions while encouraging effective cooperation in cross-border cases. Being able to continue building on that shared commitment to international family law through this exchange is something I greatly look forward to.

During my time in Tartu, I hope to gain further insights into how family law issues are approached in Estonia, particularly in areas where international cooperation is increasingly important. I am also looking forward to learning more about the country's legal culture, meeting colleagues from across the firm, and experiencing one of Europe's most innovative and digitally advanced nations.

I look forward to immersing myself in a country where the medieval charm of cities such as Tallinn and Tartu with centuries old streets meet cutting edge technologically advanced offices.

For Caldwell & Robinson, exchanges such as these are about more than professional development. They strengthen the international relationships that allow us to provide practical, informed advice to clients whose lives and legal issues extend beyond one jurisdiction. They also reinforce the collaborative spirit that sits at the heart of Avrio Advocati, where member firms work together to share knowledge, expertise, and best practice for the benefit of clients worldwide.

I look forward to sharing my experiences from Tallinn and bringing back valuable insights that will enhance the service we provide to our clients in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and beyond.