Marriage and family
Khula, talaq and divorce
You can prepare on your own, but a lawyer will improve your chances.
A wife can ask the Family Court to end the marriage by khula, usually by returning the dower (haq mehr) or giving up a claim to it. A husband who gives talaq must send written notice to the Union Council chairman; it takes effect after 90 days. The paperwork and court steps matter for remarriage, maintenance and custody, so a family lawyer is strongly advised.
The law
Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961 (section 7 notice); Family Courts Act 1964; Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act 1939
What to do
- 1
Find your nikah nama and note the dower (haq mehr) and any delegated right of divorce (talaq-e-tafweez, column 18).
- 2
Write down the key dates: marriage, separation, children's birth dates, and any money or jewellery given.
- 3
Meet a family lawyer who can file the suit for khula together with maintenance and dowry claims.
- 4
After the decree or talaq, make sure the Union Council issues the divorce effectiveness certificate, then update NADRA.
Keep these ready
- Nikah nama
- CNICs of both spouses
- Children's B-forms or birth certificates
- List of dowry items and gifts
- How long it takes
- Khula cases often take a few months to a year
General information, not legal advice. Checked against public sources in 2026. Laws and procedures change, and local practice differs between districts.