Japan family law. Under Japanese law (the Civil Code of Japan), when parents with minor children divorce, parental authority must be assigned to one of the parents. The reform introduces optional joint parental authority after divorce, and represents a structural shift in Japanese family law. This chapter primarily explains the law as it currently stands The Family Law System in Japan This page aims to provide some information about the family law system in Japan . Typical questions and answers about divorce, including issues of child custody, child support, visitation etc. Questions and Answers on the Family Related Cases Supreme Court of Japan / Judicial System in Japan / Questions and Answers on the Family Related Cases The Complete Guide to Filing Claims in Japanese Family Court as a Foreigner – Individual vs Lawyer Process & Interpreter Support 2026–2027 By Makoto Matsuo – Founder/CEO & President, Osaka Language Solutions If you’re an expat in Japan facing a family dispute — whether it’s divorce, child custody, inheritance, or any other matter that needs to go before the Family Court (Katei Feb 26, 2026 · Recent Legislative Reform and Scope of This Chapter In May 2024, Japan enacted a major amendment to the Civil Code, which is scheduled to take effect on 1 April 2026 (the “2026 Amended Civil Code”). Family law in Japan The main family law of Japan is Part IV of Civil Code (民法, Minpō). Sep 3, 2025 · This article unpacks family laws in Japan, discussing divorce, marital agreements, international aspects, the unmarried family, parental custody and more. The Family Register Act (戸籍法, Kosekihō) contains provisions relating to the family register (戸籍, Koseki) and notifications to the public office. Review of provisions on divorce and related systems. In cases where the father or mother is Japanese and a child is of Japanese nationality, parental authority will be determined in accordance with Japanese law (the Civil Code of Japan). mdy kxhwwmh pabqd akou bmqcvx ptjmz jgmt dcjjoyy yraq juxtv