Matrimonial and Family

Family cases are rarely about one proceeding. A divorce petition is often followed by maintenance claims, a domestic violence case and a criminal complaint, each in a different court. We look at the whole picture from the start, and where a settlement is possible we work towards one that ends all the cases together.

We also act where one spouse lives abroad, appearing by video where the court allows and planning travel around the hearings that need it.

What we handle

• Mutual consent divorce Section 13B of the Hindu Marriage Act, including requests to waive the six-month gap.
• Contested divorce Section 13, on cruelty, desertion and other grounds; the Special Marriage Act.
• Maintenance Section 144 of the BNSS and interim maintenance under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act.
• Domestic violence Cases under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 – filing and defence.
• Cruelty cases Sections 85 and 86 of the BNS (earlier Section 498A IPC) – anticipatory bail and quashing on settlement.
• Custody and guardianship Custody, visitation and guardianship under the Guardians and Wards Act.

Questions clients ask

How long does a mutual divorce take?

The law sets a six-month gap between the two motions; the court can waive it in suitable cases, and many mutual divorces then finish in weeks.

Can I get maintenance while the case is pending?

Yes. Interim maintenance can be sought under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act or Section 144 of the BNSS.