Family Law Services in Islamabad
Family law disputes are among the most emotionally taxing legal matters anyone faces. At Islamabad Legal Services, our advocates combine deep expertise with genuine sensitivity to help you navigate divorce, custody, and maintenance proceedings in Islamabad's family courts and, where needed, before the Islamabad High Court. We offer remote representation for overseas Pakistanis via registered power of attorney.
Divorce and Talaq
Under the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961, talaq must be registered with the Union Council and a 90-day arbitration process completed before the divorce takes effect. We guide you through every step — from drafting the notice to final NADRA registration.
- Drafting and serving the talaq notice
- Union Council arbitration proceedings
- NADRA divorce certificate registration
- Post-divorce financial settlements and property distribution
- Recovery of mehr (dower) and maintenance
Khula — Wife-Initiated Dissolution
ILS has represented hundreds of women in khula proceedings in Islamabad — including contested cases where the husband refuses consent. Our advocates prepare the petition, attend all hearings, and work to obtain the decree as quickly as possible.
- Filing the khula petition before family court
- Contested and uncontested khula proceedings
- Return of mehr and financial settlement
- Overseas khula representation via POA
Child Custody and Guardianship
Pakistani courts apply the "best interests of the child" standard under the Guardians and Wards Act 1890. ILS advocates have extensive contested custody experience before Islamabad's family courts and the IHC.
- Custody applications before Islamabad family courts
- Interim custody injunctions (emergency orders)
- International child custody for overseas Pakistanis
- Visitation rights and access orders
- Guardianship applications for minors' property
Maintenance and Financial Orders
We represent clients in obtaining and enforcing maintenance orders after separation or divorce — including post-divorce property disputes, recovery of mehr, and division of matrimonial assets.
Court Marriage in Islamabad
ILS handles court marriage registrations in Islamabad under the Special Marriage Act and the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance — including for non-resident Pakistanis and cases involving family opposition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Islamabad? +
Contested divorce typically takes 6–18 months. An uncontested/mutual divorce can be completed in 3–6 months. Khula proceedings usually take 3–6 months after filing, though contested cases may take longer.
What is the difference between divorce and khula? +
Divorce (talaq) is initiated by the husband under Pakistani law. Khula is wife-initiated through the family court. In khula, the wife typically returns the mehr to obtain the decree. Both result in a legally valid dissolution of marriage.
Can a father get child custody in Pakistan? +
Yes. Fathers can be granted custody, particularly for boys above age 7 and girls above puberty. Courts apply the best interests of the child standard. ILS has extensive contested custody experience before Islamabad's family courts.
Can an overseas Pakistani get a divorce or khula from abroad? +
Yes. With a valid power of attorney, ILS can represent an overseas client in all divorce or khula proceedings without the client needing to appear in court. We handle the entire process remotely including NADRA registration.
What are your fees for family law matters? +
We offer fixed-fee packages for most family matters. A straightforward khula typically starts from PKR 35,000. Contested custody matters are quoted individually. We provide a written fee agreement before commencing work. Book a free consultation for a personalised quote.