Considering or Going Through a Divorce
You're navigating separation or divorce and unsure of the process.
What this generally means
Divorce can proceed by mutual consent or as a contested process, and free legal aid is available for those who qualify, to help understand your rights around maintenance, custody, and property.
Your journey
You Are Here
You're trying to understand what to do about the divorce process. That's a good first step.
Understand Issue
Read through what this situation generally means and what your options are.
Gather Documents
Collect the evidence and paperwork that will support your case.
Contact Resource
Reach out to the most relevant authority, helpline, or legal aid service.
Escalate If Needed
If the first contact doesn't resolve things, escalate to a higher forum or authority.
Follow Up
Track your complaint's status and keep records of every response you receive.
Common next steps
- 1Understand whether mutual consent divorce is possible with your spouse.
- 2Consult NALSA or a free legal aid clinic to understand your rights and options.
- 3Gather financial and property documents relevant to the marriage.
- 4Consider family counselling if reconciliation or amicable separation is possible.
Useful documents
- Marriage certificate
- Financial and property records
- Any prior legal correspondence
- Details of children, if applicable
Relevant authorities
- Family Court
- National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)
Frequently asked questions
How long does mutual consent divorce take?+
It typically involves a waiting/cooling-off period after filing, though courts can waive this in certain circumstances.
Can I get free legal help for divorce?+
Yes, NALSA and district legal services authorities provide free legal aid to eligible applicants.
Verified resources
National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)
Provides free legal aid and mediation for family disputes, including maintenance and custody, via a 10-language IVR system.
Family Counselling Centre
Government-supported centres offering counselling before family disputes escalate to court. Ask your District Legal Services Authority (15100) for the nearest one.
Mediation and Conciliation Centre
Court-annexed centre offering structured mediation for matrimonial and custody disputes, attached to family courts.