Women facing financial and societal challenges during marital disputes often seek legal protection through the Wife Maintenance Law.
This law ensures husbands provide financial support during marriage and, in some cases, after divorce, based on the husband’s financial capacity and the wife’s needs. It offers women a legal avenue for financial security in challenging circumstances
In Pakistan, under Muslim law, a husband is responsible for providing maintenance to his wife during marriage and for the ‘iddah period after divorce. If the husband fails to provide this, the wife can seek legal recourse through family courts. The husband’s financial capacity determines maintenance and is mandatory even if the wife is employed or wealthy. After the ‘iddah period, maintenance generally ceases unless otherwise agreed or specified by the court.
Maintenance of a wife refers to the husband’s legal obligation to provide for her basic needs like food, clothing, and housing, based on their financial status. Different Islamic schools vary in determining whether the husband’s, wife’s, or both of their statuses should be considered for maintenance. Medical expenses are typically not included in maintenance, but necessary treatments may be covered depending on the husband’s financial capacity. Maintenance can also be adjusted according to changes in the husband’s financial situation
The amount is determined based on the husband’s financial capacity and the wife’s needs, either through mutual agreement or by the Family Court. If a husband fails to pay, the court can enforce the order through legal measures, including asset attachment or arrest. Working wives are also entitled to claim maintenance, regardless of their employment status.
In Islamic law, This is a basic duty of marriage, and the husband has to fulfill it no matter what her religion is. However, in some cases, this responsibility can stop or be taken away.
In Pakistan, if a man contracts a second marriage lawfully with the required permissions, he is obligated to provide maintenance to the second wife, just as he must for the first wife. Both wives are entitled to equal financial support, including shelter, clothing, and other essentials, as per Islamic law. Failure to provide maintenance to either wife can result in legal action, and the second wife has the right to claim maintenance through family courts if neglected. The law ensures fairness in financial obligations to both wives.
Call +92-321-4305422 and Schedule a Consultation With Me
In Pakistan, a wife is entitled to maintenance from her husband under Islamic law as long as she is faithful and fulfills her matrimonial obligations. If the husband fails to provide maintenance, the wife can file a suit in the Family Court to recover past and future payments, with the court determining the amount based on the husband’s financial status.
A wife has the legal right to claim maintenance from her husband during marriage, covering essentials like food, shelter, and medical care. If the husband neglects this duty, the wife can approach family courts under the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961.
To apply for wife maintenance in Pakistan, the wife can file a case in Family Court, usually with the help of a lawyer, under the West Pakistan Family Courts Act or Muslim Family Laws Ordinance. The court will assess the husband’s financial situation and the wife’s needs before deciding the maintenance amount. If the husband fails to comply, the court can enforce the decision and even issue recovery orders.
If you require assistance during this time, my firm can help safeguard your rights. Call +92 321 4305422 today to schedule your free consultation. We offer remote video & Zoom conferences as well.