The Family Court has exclusive jurisdiction over dissolution of marriage, dower, maintenance, restitution of conjugal rights, custody, guardianship and dowry articles under the Family Courts Act, 1964. Proceedings are designed to be quicker than ordinary civil cases, with a pre-trial reconciliation stage. Appeals go to the District Court and, in limited cases, the High Court.
Who this is for
- Anyone with a case before the Family Court in Islamabad or Rawalpindi
- People who have received a Family Court summons
- Parties wanting to appeal a Family Court decree
- Overseas Pakistanis with family cases in Pakistan
How the family court litigation process works
- 1
Plaint or written statement
We draft the plaint for the claimant, or the written statement for the defendant.
- 2
Pre-trial
We represent you in the reconciliation attempt and the framing of issues.
- 3
Evidence
We lead your evidence and cross-examine the other side’s witnesses.
- 4
Arguments and decree
We argue the case and obtain the decree.
- 5
Appeal and execution
We file or defend appeals and execute the decree.
Documents you need
- ◆Your CNIC and nikahnama
- ◆The summons or plaint if you are the defendant
- ◆Children’s documents, if relevant
- ◆Evidence relating to income, dower or dowry articles
Timeline and fees
| Timeline | Family cases are meant to be decided within six months under the Act, though actual timelines vary with the court and the parties. |
|---|---|
| Fees | Quoted in writing after we review your documents. Court matters are quoted stage by stage (filing, evidence, arguments) so you know the cost of each step before it starts. |
| Governing law | Family Courts Act, 1964 · Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961 · Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 |
Every type of Family Court case
- Dissolution of marriage and khula
- Maintenance of wife and children
- Recovery of dower and dowry articles
- Custody and guardianship (before the Guardian Judge)
- Restitution of conjugal rights
- Execution of family decrees
Appeals
We handle appeals before the District Court and constitutional petitions before the Islamabad High Court and the Lahore High Court Rawalpindi Bench where the law allows.
Frequently asked questions
What happens at the pre-trial stage?
The court tries to reconcile the parties. If reconciliation fails, the court frames issues and proceeds with evidence; in khula cases it can decree dissolution at this stage.
What if I was served a Family Court summons?
Contact an advocate promptly. You need to appear and file a written statement, or the court can proceed against you.
Can a Family Court decree be appealed?
Yes, to the District Court, within 30 days, except in certain small claims where the Act limits appeals.
