What This Section Covers

Our Family Law section is designed as a public legal education resource. We cover key topics with clarity and neutrality across various religious and civil frameworks:

Marriage & Divorce Laws

• Legal procedures and grounds for divorce under Hindu and Special Marriage Acts
• Mutual consent vs. contested divorce: process, timelines, and court jurisdiction
• Annulment and judicial separation explained
• NRI divorce issues and cross-border jurisdiction

Maintenance, Alimony & Financial Support

• Rights of spouses and children to maintenance
• Interim and permanent alimony under Section 125 CrPC and personal laws
• Legal obligations of earning spouses (including during pending proceedings)
• Case law interpretations and maintenance calculators (educational tools)

Child Custody & Guardianship

• Custody rights of mothers and fathers
• Difference between legal custody and physical custody
• Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 key provisions explained
• Role of Family Courts and child welfare principles in custody matters

Adoption & Child Welfare

• Legal process for adoption under Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956
• Inter-country and non-Hindu adoption under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015
• Role of CARA (Central Adoption Resource Authority)

Property, Inheritance & Succession

• Hindu Succession Act vs. Muslim and Christian succession laws
• Rights of daughters, widows, and adopted children in property
• Basics of Wills, Probate, and Letters of Administration
• Family settlement agreements and legal enforceability

Applicable Laws Covered

• Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
• Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937
• Christian Marriage Act, 1872
• Special Marriage Act, 1954
• Guardians and Wards Act, 1890
• Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
• Hindu Succession Act, 1956
• Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (Section 125)
• Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 (for adoption cases)

Who This is For

• Individuals facing or considering divorce or separation
• Parents concerned about custody or maintenance rights
• Women seeking clarity on property or domestic violence laws
• Family members looking to understand succession and inheritance rights
• Law students, educators, and researchers seeking reliable legal content

Our Focus

Legal Commentary does not offer legal representation or case advice. Our aim is purely educational to make family laws in India more understandable, accessible, and empowering for everyone.

We also break down important judgments, evolving legal interpretations, and procedural steps, so readers know what to expect before approaching the courts or authorities.