Family & Matrimonial Law

Matrimonial matters are the part of practice where the legal question is usually the smaller half of the problem. Clients arrive with a marriage that has broken down, children whose routine is about to change, and often a family that is watching. The first conversation in this office is therefore about what the client actually wants at the end of it, not about which section to file under.

Divorce

Where both spouses are willing, mutual consent proceedings under the applicable personal law are usually faster, cheaper and considerably less damaging, and we will suggest that route where it is available. Where it is not, contested petitions are drafted on the specific statutory ground made out by the facts, with evidence assembled from the beginning rather than at the trial stage.

Maintenance and interim relief

Maintenance claims are supported by a documented picture of both parties' income, standard of living and liabilities. Interim maintenance applications are moved early, since these proceedings can otherwise leave a spouse without support for a long period.

Children

Custody and visitation are argued on the welfare of the child, which is the only test the courts apply. Where a workable parenting arrangement can be negotiated without a contested hearing, we pursue it.

Domestic violence

Applications under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 can secure protection, residence, monetary and custody orders together. We also appear for respondents where allegations are disputed.

Client communications in matrimonial matters are treated as strictly confidential.