Expatriate Law is a boutique practice specialising in international family law, with particular expertise in the Middle East. The team, led by Alexandra Tribe, operates across offices in London, Singapore, and the UAE, with a focus on advising British expatriates globally. Tribe is licensed in both England & Wales and the UAE and splits her time between the two, often acting for clients with significant overseas assets or those returning to the UK after extended periods abroad. In December 2024, Adam Mitchell joined the firm, bringing dual qualifications in South Africa and England. The team also includes ‘shining star’ Eliza Hebditch, who handles cross-border divorces with a Swiss or US connection; Oscar Smith, who deals with forum and domicile disputes; and senior partner Hero Lomas, an experienced cross-border lawyer and qualified mediator. Between them, the team speaks eight languages.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Alexandra Tribe is rightly recognised as the go-to for expats.'
- ‘Expatriate law have a unique and unparalleled share of the marketplace in relation to international family law and in particular relating to the UAE and Dubai. They are the go-to firm for ex pats with connections to Dubai and the UK . Their knowledge of both legal systems gives clients an unrivalled service.’
- ‘Eliza Hebditch is a shining star at Expatriate Law. She is brilliant, organised, highly technical, and has one of the most extensive networks of professionals of any lawyer I have met.’
- ‘Sophie Capo-Bianco is a thoughtful and intelligent solicitor. She will guide any client through the process with tailored care and thought.’
- ‘They are the only firm worth going to for international family work. Second to none.’
- ‘The team at Expatriate Law consistently demonstrates exceptional expertise in handling the international dimensions of financial cases. Their deep understanding of cross-border legal issues, combined with strategic insight and cultural sensitivity, sets them apart as leaders in the field. Their ability to navigate complex jurisdictional challenges with clarity and precision is truly commendable.’
- ‘Uniquely placed to advise clients with connections to the UK and UAE. Skilled at the full range of cases, from professional families to UHNW.’
Work highlights
Advised a wife in both Schedule 1 and Part III MFPA claims in the English court after she was coerced into agreeing a Dubai financial order that left her with little capital and a maintenance provision that the husband did not comply with.
Advised a wife through financial remedy proceedings with cross border issues involving England, Dubai, Pakistan and Albania.
Practice head
Alexandra Tribe
Other key lawyers
Eliza Hebditch
Hero Lomas
Adam Mitchell
Sophie Capo-Bianco
Lauren Carmichael
Oscar Smith
NewDavid Hansford