What is the legal process for registering a divorce in Pakistan?
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Direct answer
For talaq, section 7 of the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance requires the husband to give written notice to the relevant Union Council chairman and supply a copy to the wife. The chairman forms an Arbitration Council to attempt reconciliation, and talaq generally does not become effective until 90 days after the notice reaches the chairman, subject to pregnancy provisions. A Union Council certificate is then used as official evidence. Khula or judicial dissolution begins in family court, after which the decree and local registration steps must be completed.
Sources used
Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961
Pakistan Code, Ministry of Law and Justice
Official federal text governing Muslim marriage registration, talaq notices, maintenance and dower.View sourceWest Pakistan Family Courts Act, 1964
Pakistan Code, Ministry of Law and Justice
Official statute assigning family courts jurisdiction over dissolution, dower, maintenance and related family matters.View sourceDissolution of Muslim Marriages Act, 1939
Pakistan Code, Ministry of Law and Justice
Official law stating grounds on which a Muslim woman may obtain dissolution of marriage.View source