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Mutual Divorce and its Procedure in India

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What is Mutual Divorce?


Mutual divorce is when both spouses agree to end the marriage amicably. In this kind of divorce, both parties mutually agree on key issues such as child custody, division of joint assets, finances, maintenance, etc.

This type of divorce is the easiest and least complicated process to dissolve a marriage since it involves less conflict and contention.

If you want to file for mutual divorce, LawRato can help you! You can hire top-rated mutual divorce lawyers in your city by clicking here.

Conditions for Mutual Divorce


Certain conditions are to be fulfilled before filing a mutual divorce petition. Some of the conditions, as per the Hindu Marriage Act and Special Marriage Act are stated below:
1. Duration of Marriage – A joint petition for mutual divorce cannot be filed unless the parties have been married for a set time period of 1 year.
2. Mutual Consent – The Court ensures that there is mutual consent between the parties filing for mutual divorce.
3. Separation Period – A mandatory 1 year period of separate living is considered by the court before finalizing the divorce.
4. Agreement between Parties – There should be an agreement between the parties with respect to settlement terms such as maintenance, alimony, child custody etc.


Step by Step Procedure for Mutual Divorce


Step 1 – Seek Legal Consultation

The first step should be to engage an experienced mutual divorce lawyer to obtain appropriate legal advice. Seeking the right legal consultation is paramount to understanding and clarifying the legal aspects of the case.

If you have more questions on mutual divorce or about choosing the appropriate lawyer, you can ask a free legal question with LawRato.

Step 2 – Drafting and Filing of Joint Mutual Consent Petition

The next step involves drafting the joint mutual divorce petition in the family court of appropriate jurisdiction.

Step 3- Appearance for First Motion:

After filing, you and your spouse along with your respective lawyers enter appearance before the court on an appointed date. Initially, the family court would try to resolve differences and thus direct the parties for counseling.

Step 4 – Joint Statement:

After examining the petition and documents, the Court orders the joint statement of the parties to be recorded on oath. This statement is then signed by both parties, after which the first motion is passed.

Step 5 – Cooling off Period:

After the 1st motion, the parties are given 6-18 months to reconsider their decision. This time period can be waived off at the court’s discretion.

Step 6 – Appearance for Second Motion:

If, even after six months from the first motion, you and your spouse are unable to settle your differences, then you may file a joint petition for the second motion. This motion should be filed within 18 months from the date of 1st motion.

Step 7 – Decision of the Court:

If the court is satisfied of the marriage being solemnized and of the truth in the averments made in the petition, it issues a divorce decree. This step finalizes the divorce.
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Grounds for Mutual Divorce


Unlike in contested divorce, the laws do not prescribe any particular grounds on which the couple may file for mutual divorce. Mostly, mutual divorce is filed due to the inability of the spouses to resolve their disputes due to which they are unable to live together again.


New Mutual Divorce Rules 2023


As per Section 13 B (2) of the Hindu Marriage Act, in a case of mutual divorce, the court granted a mandatory six month period to rethink the decision of divorce. At the end of this cooling-off period, either party can decide to withdraw their consent to mutual divorce. This fixed time period of 6 months was given by the court with the intention of saving the marriage.

With the new divorce rules in 2023, this mandatory waiting period for mutual divorce is now discretionary. Thus, the court may waive off this time period if the spouses agree, thereby expediting the mutual divorce case.


Documents Required for Mutual Divorce in India


For mutual divorce, the following documents may be required:
1. Address proof of the parties
2. Marriage certificate or proof of marriage
3. Child related documents in case child custody issue is involved
4. Photographs depicting the marriage of the husband and wife
5. Details regarding settlement of assets and properties
Additionally, other specific documents may be needed, based on the facts and requirements of each mutual divorce case.


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Conclusion


A mutual divorce is the best way to end a marriage since it provides the parties an opportunity to part ways amicably on terms which are agreeable to both. Unlike a contested divorce, there is no losing party in a mutual divorce.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Q. Can LawRato provide me with a lawyer?
A. Yes, we at LawRato can help connect you with the right lawyer for your divorce from our wide network of experienced matrimonial/divorce lawyers. These lawyers will help guide you through the challenging period of litigation and ensure that your interests are best protected.

Q. Can I get free legal consultation for mutual divorce?
A. Yes, you can post your query on our portal and get free legal advice for mutual divorce from top rated lawyers in your city.

Q. What is the cost of mutual divorce in India?
A. The cost of obtaining a mutual divorce in India depends on various factors such as complexity of the issues involved like maintenance of the spouse and children, properties to be settled between them, court fee, lawyer and clerical fee, and the time taken to obtain such a divorce.

Q. Can consent from a mutual divorce case be withdrawn?
A. Yes, before filing the second motion, either party i.e. husband or wife can withdraw consent for mutual divorce. This step should be approached with caution as the court does not spare parties who misuse the first motion to gain advantage. It is, therefore, important to consult a good divorce lawyer at every step.