Family Law

Family Law Questions Clients Often Ask in Pakistan

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Family matters are stressful, and good information lowers the temperature. These are the questions clients ask us most often about family law in Pakistan, answered in plain language. None of this replaces advice on your specific facts.

Khula and Divorce: What Is the Difference

Divorce (talaq) is initiated by the husband, while khula is the route by which a wife can ask the court to dissolve the marriage. Both end the marriage, but the procedure, the paperwork and the treatment of dower can differ. Which applies depends on your circumstances.

Child Custody: What Courts Look At

In custody matters the welfare of the child is the guiding principle, not the wishes of either parent alone. Courts weigh the child age, needs, schooling and stability. Custody and guardianship are related but distinct, and visitation is usually arranged for the other parent.

  • The welfare and best interests of the child
  • The age and needs of the child
  • The stability each parent can offer
  • Existing schooling and care arrangements

Maintenance for Wife and Children

A wife and children may be entitled to maintenance, and the court sets the amount with reference to needs and the husband means. Claims can be pursued and, where orders are not honoured, enforced through the court.

Family Matters From Abroad

Khula, custody and maintenance can usually be pursued on your behalf through a power of attorney, so an overseas spouse or parent is not forced to travel for every hearing. We keep you updated on WhatsApp in your timezone.

In every custody dispute, the question the court keeps returning to is simple: what arrangement is best for this child.
Facing a family matter?
Tell us what is happening on WhatsApp. We will explain your options honestly and the likely next step, with discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is khula different from talaq?
Talaq is divorce initiated by the husband. Khula is the process by which a wife asks the court to dissolve the marriage. The procedure and the treatment of dower can differ.
Who decides child custody?
The court decides on the basis of the child welfare, considering age, needs and stability. Custody is about day to day care, while guardianship covers wider legal responsibility.
Can a family case run while I live abroad?
In most cases, yes. Khula, custody and maintenance can usually be handled through a power of attorney, with updates to you on WhatsApp.
BA
Barrister Bilal Ashraf
Senior Partner, LawBridge LLP

Barrister-at-Law (Lincoln's Inn) and Advocate of the High Court with 18 plus years of experience. Bilal leads LawBridge LLP across seven offices in Pakistan, with a particular focus on property, inheritance and family matters for overseas Pakistanis.

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