How to Apply for Mutual Divorce in India?

Updated on September 03, 2024 12:50:23 PM

Mutual Divorce in India is a legal process for the dissolution of a marriage by mutual concern. Divorce has historically been viewed with suspicion in a country that values traditions and strong family ties. Divorce is not a bad taboo in India anymore. Mutual Divorce is a progressive option for difficult legal disputes; peaceful divorce is the procedure by which spouses decide to part ways quietly and with mutual consent.

In this article, we will get a comprehensive understanding of mutual divorce, its process, advantages and documentation. It will help the couple to get a divorce in a legal method.

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What is Mutual Divorce?

Mutual Divorce is a lawful procedure in which a married couple mutually decides to end or dissolve the marriage. This divorce process is also known as the “Divorce by Mutual Concern”. This method of divorce provides a stressless way to get separation or dissolution.

Mutual Divorce is not only a legal procedure but also a mature and shared choice of both spouses. As a result of this method, mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration are prioritised.

Process for Divorce in India

The Complete Stepwise procedure of the Mutual Divorce in India is as follows:

Step 1: Seek the Legal Guidance

The divorce process is a complex process therefore the couple must consult with an experienced lawyer and seek legal guidance. Seeking a lawyer’s help provides you with the information you need to make wise decisions about the legal repercussions of divorce, such as property distribution, alimony, child custody, and support.

Step 2: Mutual Consent and Agreement

Before proceeding with the divorce process, the spouses must have a discussion between both and draft an agreement. In this agreement, all the aspects related to alimony, child custody, and property-related matters should be mentioned.

This agreement serves as thorough information about the ground of Divorce and the spouse's concern about it. This mutual consent and agreement also saves the court’s valuable time and helps to make a clear and fair decision regarding the divorce.

Step 3: Filing a Petition

Filing a Petition is an initial stage for proceeding with Mutual Divorce in India. This crucial stage creates the legal structure for the divorce proceedings. In this step, the Spouse has to file a petition in the court and it must have the joint statement of both partners attached to this petition.

The joint statement of both spouses serves as evidence that they both want the dissolution of the marriage with a mutual understanding. In this statement, the spouses also have to mention their reasons or grounds for the divorce and details like their agreement on child custody, alimony, and property allocation.

Step 4:Final Decree

At this stage, the court reviews all of the issues and arguments raised in the statement or petition and has a hearing on the record. The court will impose a six-month waiting period if they are persuaded of the divorce grounds after hearing the arguments from both parties. The marriage has not officially ended, but this is rather a sign that the court does not see any grounds for prohibiting the divorce from going forward.

If there is no compromise between the couple throughout the waiting time and they are both ready to dissolve the marriage, the court grants their divorce. This is the court's definitive decree dissolving the marriage's bond in a legal manner.

Required Documents for the Divorce in India

The commonly required documents for both kinds of divorce in India are given below:

  • Marriage Proof evidence (e.g. - Marriage Certificate, photos, wedding cards, etc.)
  • Address Proof (ex-Aadhar card, PAN card, Voter ID, etc.)
  • Income statement (if required)
  • Passport size photos
  • Evidence supporting the grounds of divorce
  • Details of Children (if have)
  • MoU or Settlement deed (in case of mutual divorce)

Why Litem Legalis?

Litem Legalis specialises in divorce processes, and we were founded with a mission to assist people during one of life's most difficult transitions. Our team of experienced lawyers utilises compassion and knowledge to provide our clients with the best possible representation, advice, and support as they navigate the challenges of divorce.

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Free Legal Advice

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Conclusion

Mutual divorce in India offers couples a respectful way to end their marriage based on mutual consent and is a sign of changing social standards in India. It reduces the emotional and financial stress typically associated with extended legal disputes by emphasising cooperation and consensus.

However, even while it represents a progressive legal system, it also emphasises the need to raise awareness and make sure that the process is free from compulsion. Mutual divorce ultimately serves as a testament to the harmony between tradition and the evolving nature of partnerships in contemporary India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Mutual Divorce?

A divorce by mutual consent or mutual divorce occurs when both partners want separation.

What are the grounds for the Divorce in India?

There are several grounds for Divorce in India such as Cruelty, desertion, conversion, mental disorder, communicable disease and presumption of death.

What is Contested Divorce?

When the couple cannot agree on the terms of the divorce, it becomes contested, and the court must make decisions on things like child custody and property.

What is the Hindu Marriage Act?

The Hindu Marriage Act in India protects unions conducted according to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain customs. It outlines the legal requirements for a valid Hindu marriage as well as the divorce and maintenance procedures.

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