Family Law Major – Your Quick Guide to Divorce, Marriage and Custody in India

If you’re looking for straight‑forward advice on family law, you’ve landed in the right spot. We’ve pulled together the most common questions about divorce, marriage registration, child custody and other hot topics. Below you’ll find bite‑size tips you can use today, plus links to deeper articles for when you need more detail.

Divorce Basics – What You Really Need to Know

Thinking about ending a marriage? The first thing to ask yourself is whether you meet the legal requirement of living separately. In many Indian cases, a year of separate residence is enough for a mutual‑consent divorce, but contested divorces can take longer. Gather your marriage certificate, any proof of separation (like separate utility bills), and a list of assets before you walk into the court.

Money worries are normal. The court will look at earnings, property, and even who pays the household bills. Knowing your own salary and the other partner’s income helps you negotiate a fair settlement. If you’re unsure about the numbers, check out our salary‑breakdown post for lawyers – the same logic applies to personal finances.

Marriage Registration – Fast‑Track Your Legal Union

Got a wedding coming up and want to avoid paperwork headaches? Registering your marriage can be done in just a few days if you bring the right documents: birth certificates, identity proof, photographs, and an affidavit stating there’s no existing marriage. Some states even allow online applications, which cuts the waiting time dramatically.

Skipping registration isn’t a great idea. Without it, you may face hurdles proving your marriage in court, especially if a dispute over inheritance or property pops up later. Our guide on “Quickest Way to Get Married in India” walks you through each step, so you won’t miss anything.

For couples who are already married but didn’t register, you can still file a retroactive application. Gather witness statements, old photographs, and any joint bank accounts to strengthen your case.

Child Custody – Keeping the Kids’ Best Interests First

When a divorce is on the table, custody worries spike. In India, the court uses the “best interest of the child” test, looking at the child’s age, health, and each parent’s ability to provide care. If you want primary custody, be ready to show stable housing, a steady job, and a supportive environment.

Shared custody is becoming more common, but it requires clear communication. Draft a parenting plan that outlines school drop‑offs, holidays, and medical decisions. Having this document can speed up the court process and reduce conflict.

Don’t forget to keep records of any school reports, doctor visits, and extracurricular activities. These documents prove you’re actively involved in your child’s life, which courts love to see.

All of these topics—divorce timelines, marriage registration shortcuts, and custody tips—are covered in more detail in our individual articles. Browse the list below to dive deeper into any area that matters to you.

Whether you’re filing paperwork, negotiating a settlement, or just curious about your rights, these practical pointers give you a solid starting point. Remember, family law can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into small steps makes it manageable.