How Muslim Couple Do Court Marriage in Pakistan?

Court marriage in Pakistan is a legal and straightforward process that allows two consenting adults to get married without the involvement of traditional ceremonies or rituals. This option is particularly popular among couples who wish to marry independently of family or societal pressures. In this article, we will explore the court marriage law in Pakistan, the procedure, required documents, fees, and overall cost.

1. Court Marriage Law in Pakistan

Court marriage in Pakistan is governed by various laws, including the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961, and the Family Courts Act, 1964. These laws ensure that the marriage is legally recognized and provides protection to both parties involved. For Muslim couples, the marriage must also adhere to Islamic principles, including the consent of both parties and the payment of Mahr (dower) to the bride. Non-Muslim couples can also opt for court marriage under the relevant personal laws applicable to their religion.

2. Court Marriage Procedure in Pakistan

The procedure for court marriage in Pakistan is relatively simple and involves the following steps:

1. Filing the Application: The couple must first visit the local Union Council or a marriage registrar's office to file an application for court marriage. The application typically includes details such as the names, ages, and addresses of both parties.

2. Verification of Documents: The registrar verifies the provided documents, ensuring that both parties meet the legal requirements for marriage (e.g., age, marital status).

3. Signing the Nikahnama: For Muslim couples, a Nikahnama (marriage contract) is prepared, and both parties, along with their witnesses, sign it. For non-Muslims, the relevant marriage certificate is prepared according to their personal laws.

4. Court Proceedings: In some cases, especially if the marriage is contested or if the couple wishes to take extra legal precautions, they may appear before a magistrate or family court judge who will review the marriage application and confirm the legality of the marriage.

5. Issuance of Marriage Certificate: After all the formalities are completed, the marriage registrar issues an official marriage certificate, legally recognizing the union.

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3. Documents Required for Court Marriage

To complete a court marriage in Pakistan, the following documents are generally required:

• National Identity Cards (NICs) of both parties.

• Photographs of both parties.

• Proof of marital status (such as a divorce certificate if previously married, or a death certificate if widowed).

• Affidavits confirming that both parties are of legal age and free to marry.

• Mahr (dower) details agreed upon by both parties.

Additional documents may be required depending on the specific circumstances, such as for non-Muslim marriages or cases involving foreign nationals.

4. Court Marriage Fees in Pakistan

The fees for court marriage in Pakistan can vary depending on the location and the services of the marriage registrar or lawyer involved. Typically, the court marriage fees include:

• The official fee for filing the marriage application.

• Charges for issuing the marriage certificate.

• Additional fees if the marriage is registered in a court or if legal services are required.

These fees are usually minimal and are regulated by the government to ensure that court marriage remains an accessible option for all.

5. Court Marriage Cost in Pakistan

The total cost of a court marriage in Pakistan includes the fees mentioned above, as well as any additional expenses such as:

• Legal fees if a lawyer is hired to facilitate the process.

• Costs associated with obtaining necessary documents, such as affidavits or NICs.

• Any additional expenses related to court proceedings if the marriage is contested or requires legal intervention.

On average, the cost of a court marriage in Pakistan can range from PKR 5,000 to PKR 20,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the services required.

Conclusion

Court marriage in Pakistan is a legally recognized and efficient way for couples to formalize their union without the need for elaborate ceremonies. Understanding the court marriage law, procedure, required documents, fees, and overall cost can help couples navigate the process smoothly. Whether seeking to marry independently or due to specific personal circumstances, court marriage offers a straightforward and accessible option for all eligible couples in Pakistan.

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