Court of Appeal To Rule on Landmark Cross Border Divorce Case

The Court of Appeal will deliver its verdict later this week (4 September) in a landmark case which according to legal experts at Irwin Mitchell, could have a major impact on London retaining its reputation as the ‘divorce capital of the world’.

Family lawyers at Irwin Mitchell say the Potanina v Potanin case could have major implications for so-called “divorce tourism”—where individuals seek more favourable financial outcomes in jurisdictions like England and Wales, known for their equitable approach to divorce settlements

This case involves Natalia Potanina, the former wife of Vladimir Potanin, one of Russia’s wealthiest businessmen. Mr Potanin is estimated to be worth around £20 billion, with much of his fortune tied to mining and industrial investments. The couple divorced in Russia in 2014, where Mrs Potanina received a fraction of the marital assets. She is now seeking financial relief in England and Wales, arguing that her former husband controls far more wealth than was considered in the Russian proceedings.

The decision is expected to offer clarity on whether Natalia Potanina has sufficiently close enough connections to England to make a Part III claim.

Expert Opinion

“Potanina v Potanin is one of the most closely watched family law decisions in recent years.

“The case goes to the heart of whether courts in England and Wales should offer financial remedies to spouses divorced abroad, particularly in cases involving vast international wealth.

“Depending on the outcome, this ruling could either reinforce the jurisdiction’s reputation for fairness—or signal a shift toward stricter jurisdictional boundaries. It’s a pivotal moment for cross-border divorce law.”
Hayley Trim, partner at Irwin Mitchell

Lawyers at Irwin Mitchell also believe that if the Court of Appeal grants permission on the remitted appeal, the claim could become one of the most valuable financial remedy cases ever heard in England and Wales.