How Long Does It Take to Bring Your Child Back in a Hague Proceeding?

 Posted on November 20, 2025 in International Criminal Law

If your ex takes your child to another country without your permission, you likely find yourself in a scenario from every parent’s worst nightmares. The good news is that if your child is in a country that is a member of the Hague Convention, the law is on your side. But how long does a Hague Convention custody proceeding take? When will you see your child again?

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is designed to resolve these cases quickly because the treaty recognizes that children wrongfully removed from their home country suffer harm the longer they stay away. But the actual timeline depends on several factors. Our Hague Convention child abduction attorney can discuss your case with you and get started as quickly as possible.

What Is the Official Timeline for Getting Children Back to Their Home Country Under the Hague Convention?

Article 11 of the Hague Convention expects courts to try to decide return cases within six weeks of the application being filed. The goal is to get children back to their home country before they settle into their new location.

However, this six-week deadline is a goal, not a guarantee. Many countries struggle to meet it. Courts deal with backlogs, translation delays, and procedural requirements that slow things down. The six weeks also does not include the time it takes to file the application and serve the other parent.

How Long Does a Hague Convention Child Abduction Case Really Take in Most Cases?

Realistically, most Hague cases take three to six months from start to finish. Some resolve faster while others drag on for a year or more. The country where your child was taken makes a huge difference.

Countries with efficient Hague procedures like the United Kingdom, France, and Germany often resolve cases in three to four months. Countries with slower court systems or less experience with Hague cases can take six months to a year or longer.

What Slows Down Hague Cases?

Several factors can delay your case. Finding your child takes time if the abducting parent is hiding. Some parents move around or use false addresses to avoid being served with court papers.

The abducting parent might claim you consented to the move, that return would put the child at grave risk of harm, or that the child objects to returning. Each defense requires evidence and hearing time.

Appeals are allowed in most countries. If the trial court orders return, the abducting parent can appeal. This adds months to the process. Some countries have multiple levels of appeals.

What Happens After the Court Orders Your Child to Be Returned Under the Hague Convention?

Winning your case does not mean your child comes home the next day. The abducting parent might appeal. Even after all appeals are exhausted, you may need to arrange travel and make sure the order gets enforced.

Once your child is returned, you will then need to continue the custody dispute in the U.S. This is separate from the Hague Convention proceedings and is handled by the court in the county where you or your child’s other parent lives.

Call a Chicago, IL Hague Convention Child Abduction Attorney Today

Contact Komie and Associates at 312-263-2800 for a free consultation about your international child abduction case. Our Illinois Hague Convention child abduction lawyer understands the urgency of these situations and knows how to navigate the complex international legal process. We can help you file your application, work with the authorities, and coordinate with lawyers abroad to bring your child back as quickly as possible.