how to file divorce in india
Published on October, 24 2024

Filing for divorce in India is not smooth sailing, especially in light of the lawsuits that have to be filed and the paperwork. Whether it is mutual consent or a contested divorce, the legal procedures are hard to fathom. Provided below is a step-by-step guide on how to file for divorce, how to apply for divorce online, the procedure for filing for divorce in India, and the documents needed for mutual and contested divorces.

For those who are contemplating the idea of hiring a divorce lawyer in Delhi or meeting a legal expert in which all legal formalities could be completed correctly, divorce considerations come into view.

What is divorce and why should you care?

The term 'divorce' is usually understood to refer to the judicial process involving the dissolution of marriage, terminating the marital relationship, and reorganization of rights and obligations between spouses. In India, the laws relating to divorce are different as it is religion-specific. Some of the laws may include the Hindu Marriage Act, Special Marriage Act, and Muslim Personal Law. As such, the entire procedure is a bit cumbersome hence an earlier consultation with a lawyer who may be able to provide crucial advice in respect of the same.

Types of Divorce in India – Mutual and Contested Divorce

Mutual Consent Divorce

This is divorce by consent and it is called when the couple consents to terminate the marriage hassle-free. They include:

  • A separation period of no less than 12 months should precede any application.
  • Matters such as alimony, division of property, and child custody are to be addressed and settled before the petition can be made.
  • This process is provided for in Section 13B of The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.

Contested Divorce

Contested divorce occurs when the husband or the wife wants to end the marriage but the spouse refuses to agree to that. Common grounds for contested divorce include:

  • Cruelty
  • Adultery
  • Desertion
  • Mental abnormality or sexually transmitted infection
  • Changing one’s religion

Contested divorces tend to take a long time to conclude, commonly ranging between 2-5 years, with numerous court appearances and evidence presentations.

Procedure to File for Divorce in India – Step-by-Step Process

Steps for Filing a Divorce through Mutual Consent

1. Obtain a Divorce Lawyer

Obtain a divorce lawyer in Delhi or your locality who can prepare the petition.

2. Prepare and Present the Mutual Petition

The couple presents a mutual petition signed by both of them. The couple, before this petition, declares that they have been separated for at least one year and that they have given mutual consent to divorce each other.

3. Appear before the Court for the First Motion

The court will look upon the filed petition and may provide counseling to reconcile parties.

4. Waiting Period of 6 Months

After the first motion, there is a waiting period of 6 months that allows thought.

Even after that, if the court feels that without delay it is going to suffer then the waiting period can be waived by the court.

5. Second motion and Final Hearing

After the waiting period, the couple appears before the courts for the second motion confirming their decision to divorce.

Sequential or Chronological Divorce Procedures for a Contesting Divorce

Consider Visiting a Divorce Attorney

It is essential to seek out legal representation who is skilled and experienced in managing hostile divorce cases.

Commence with the Preparation and Submission of the Divorce Petition

The lawyer pens the petition and files it at the family court together with the necessary documents supporting the petition.

Serve Notice to the Respondent

The court issues a notice to the other spouse directing him or her to come to court.

Waiting for Evidence and Court Hearings

All the parties involved in the divorce hearing present their side, bring evidence and go through cross-examinations.

Last Statements and Divorce Order Pronounced

The evidence in court is closed the honourable judge makes a ruling and if it is suitable issues a divorce.

How to File Divorce Online in India?

Online divorce filing is still in its nascent stage in India, but some of the states have started providing online services to initiate it.

How to File Divorce Online in India
  • Register on the official family court website or any legal service portal
  • Scan and upload all the documents required such as Marriage Certificate and ID proofs etc.
  • Schedule a consultation or hearing through the website.
  • Appear physically for hearings when needed as online divorces are filed partially.

Documents Required to File a Divorce in India

Documents For Mutual Consent Divorce:
  • Marriage Certificate
  • Address Proofs of both partners
  • Proof of separation like lease agreements or Affidavits
  • Financial Statements for the division of asset
  • Signed joint petition for divorce
Documents For Contested Divorce:
  • Marriage Certificate and Wedding Photographs
  • Proof of Evidence supporting for grounds of divorce such as email, medical reports and many more
  • Financial Documents for claims of alimony
  • Property Documents
  • Residence and Identity proof

Legal Grounds for Divorce in India

Ground Description
Cruelty Physical or mental abuse by one spouse toward the other.
Adultery Voluntary sexual relationship with someone else.
Desertion One spouse leaving the other for at least 2 years.
Conversion Changing religion without the other spouse’s consent.
Mental Illness Incurable mental disorder making cohabitation impossible.
Venereal Disease A communicable disease that threatens the partner’s health.

Why You Need a Divorce Lawyer

For you to be assured of the protection of your rights while getting or giving the divorce, you need a divorce lawyer. They offer:

  • Advice on legal procedures in matters of alimony, child custody, and other property.
  • How to comply with the conditions required by law and file a petition to win.
  • Legal representation in cases for court trials or hearings in contested divorces.
  • If you are in Delhi, it will become relatively easy if you work with a divorce lawyer in Delhi since they have exposed the legal procedures.

What Might Happen During Divorce Process

  • Delays that result from legal causes, and so on.
  • schedules and arrears can be lengthy.
    • Emotional Stress: Divorce always leaves an emotional scar on both spouses and children.
    • Financial Issues: Disputes over alimony, child support, and asset division are common.
    • Social Stigma: In some societies, divorce has a negative societal perception.
    • Time Taken for Divorce in India
    • Mutual Consent Divorce: It takes 6-18 months. It depends upon the cases taken up by courts and the cooperation of couples.
    • Contested Divorce: The whole process can take 2-5 years depending upon how many hearings can take place, presentation of evidence, etc.

    Conclusion

    Executing the divorce proceedings in India need not be unnerving if one knows the steps that are involved. No matter whether one is going for a mutual or contested divorce, it is advisable to hire a divorce attorney as it will make sure that everything is done legally. Following the right course of action to file for divorce in India and providing the essential documents, makes it easier for couples to deal with the challenges especially if they are filing for an uncontested divorce.

    If you require help, consult a lawyer to guarantee that your legal rights are maintained and that the procedure goes smoothly. A Resident of Delhi, like engaging a divorce lawyer in delhi is of great advantage as a familiarization with the court is guaranteed.

    Author Image

    Advocate Priya Paul

    Advocate Priya Paul, a proactive Delhi-based advocate, leads a skilled team. Her blog shares insights and updates on legal issues, helping readers navigate the law.

    Frequently Asked Question

    How to apply for a divorce online in India? +
    Indian states have implemented the facility of online registration for the divorce process. You can upload documents and book your hearings online, but you have to physically appear for the hearings.
    Which documents are needed for mutual consent divorce? +
    You would require the marriage certificate, address proofs, financial statements, and a joint petition signed by both spouses. Well, the court can dispense with the waiting period if further adjournments cause hardship to the couple.
    How long does a contested divorce take in India? +
    The duration of a contested divorce may take 2-5 years as per the complexity and number of hearings.
    Where shall I file the divorce petition? +
    The petition should be filed in the family court having jurisdiction over the matrimonial home or where the marriage was solemnized.

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