Main areas of practice and author profil
Marriage, divorce, children
I advise high net worth individuals, managers, entrepreneurs, and their spouses on all matters relating to marriage contracts, separation, and divorce. I also represent the interests of separated parents in custody and visitation rights cases.
International family law
I offer expert legal advice on a wide range of cross-border family law issues, including international divorces, custody disputes, visitation rights cases, and cases of international child abduction. With a deep understanding of the complexities of international family law, I support my clients in these difficult legal matters.
Cases with an international dimension always require in-depth specialist knowledge and a high degree of empathy, compassion, and intercultural understanding. I am aware of the emotional challenges that often accompany these cases and work closely with my clients to provide them with the guidance and support they need throughout the process. In this way, I ensure that my clients' rights and interests are reliably protected across borders.
I am particularly committed to providing legal representation for all family models and nationalities. I work primarily with English-speaking clients and represent my clients' interests in both German and English.
Desire to have children and parenthood
My practice also focuses on all issues relating to the desire to have children, especially for rainbow families. Legal support for surrogacy and adoption in Germany and abroad is particularly important in my daily work. I also support my clients in all matters relating to paternity.
Education
I studied law at the University of Hamburg and spent a semester abroad at the Universidad Autónoma in Madrid, specializing in international family law and child abduction. Before my legal clerkship, I gained valuable experience at a family court in Hamburg and in a notary's office specializing in German and international family law.
I completed my legal clerkship and second state examination at the Higher Regional Court of Celle and simultaneously obtained an LL.M. in international law from the University of London. After my second state examination, I worked for renowned law firms specializing in international family law in Hamburg and Düsseldorf. I am currently in the process of obtaining the title of “Specialist Lawyer for Family Law”: I have already successfully completed the theoretical part with above-average results. In addition to my work as a lawyer, I am a lecturer at the Fresenius University of Applied Sciences and volunteer as a mentor for young female lawyers.
Client reviews
- "Highly recommended!" Ms. Brest assisted me with my divorce, and I couldn't have asked for better support. She is extremely empathetic, always listened to me, and her confident and structured approach alleviated any uncertainty I had.Thanks to her empathy and clear communication, I felt in good hands at all times. I am more than satisfied and would consult her again at any time. Highly recommended!
- "clear recommendation!" I had a consultation with Ms. Ricarda Kalla, who was very competent and well prepared. She clarified questions and strategies for handling my case objectively and factually. I highly recommend her.
Personal
I am married and spend most of my free time with my family in nature. You will rarely find me without my golden retriever Maya and my Hanoverian gelding Robin. Once the animals are taken care of, you will find me on the sofa with a glass of red wine or a coffee, reading a book. I love long walks on the North Sea and vacations in the camper van.
Data
- Education: University of Hamburg, Universidad Autónoma, University of London
- Legal clerkship: Higher Regional Court of Celle
- Memberships: Hamburg Bar Association, German Women Lawyers Association, Legally Female
- Languages: German, English