Understanding Divorce Through the Eyes of a Family Lawyer"

Author: Sadia Javed, Advocate High Court

Divorce, a once-taboo subject in Pakistani society, has seen a significant increase in recent years. The annulment trend has sparked widespread concern, prompting a closer examination of the underlying causes and potential solutions to curb this disturbing rise. In this article, a reputed family lawyer will explore the reasons behind the growing divorce rate in Pakistan, discuss strategies to mitigate divorce causes, and propose social measures to foster tolerance of separation and stability within families and society.

Pakistan’s society has undergone substantial changes in recent decades. The increasing participation of women in the workforce, greater access to education, and the influence of global media have shifted traditional gender roles. While these changes are empowering, they have also introduced challenges to marital relationships, as couples navigate the balance between traditional expectations and modern realities. Whereas, the economic challenges, including inflation, unemployment, and financial instability, have placed immense strain on families and one of causes for dissolution of marriages. Many couples struggle to meet basic needs, leading to stress and conflict. The inability to provide for a family can cause frustration and dissatisfaction, often resulting in marital discord. Worth to mention, an effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. However, in many Pakistani households, couples often struggle to express their feelings and concerns openly. Cultural norms that discourage open dialogue about personal issues contribute to misunderstandings and unresolved conflicts, ultimately leading to divorce.In addition to above, the pervasive influence of Western culture, particularly through media and social networks, has introduced new ideas about love, marriage, and individual freedom. While these ideas may promote personal autonomy, they can also create unrealistic expectations and diminish the value of compromise, which is essential for the longevity of a marriage. Nevertheless, the legal framework for divorce in Pakistan has been governed by both Islamic and civil law, has made it easier for couples to dissolve their marriages. In some cases, religious leaders may advise divorce as a solution to marital problems, further contributing to the rise in divorce rates.

Being an experienced family lawyer, I can propose the strategies to reduce the divorce rates by placing the premarital counseling could help couples understand the challenges of marriage and equip them with the tools to navigate them. Counseling sessions could focus on communication skills, conflict resolution, and financial planning, fostering a strong foundation for the marriage. On the other hands, it is foremost required to strengthening family ties, to encourage close-knit family structures can provide couples with a robust support system. Being a practicing divorce lawyer, I would strongly say that families can play a crucial role in mediating disputes and offering guidance during tough times. Traditional joint family systems, while often criticized, can provide stability and prevent impulsive decisions like divorce. At the same time, the economic support programs need to be emplaced. If implement government policies that provide economic support to struggling families can alleviate some of the financial pressures that contribute to marital breakdowns. Subsidies, low-interest loans, and job creation initiatives could help ease the economic burden on families. During my practice of law as a family lawyer as per my point of view, while, promotion of Islamic values is a crucial subject, reaffirming the importance of Islamic teachings on marriage, patience, and compromise can help reinforce the sanctity of marriage. Religious leaders and scholars can play a pivotal role in promoting these values through sermons, lectures, and community programs.

In the current circumstances, where it is an era of social media it can also be used to foster tolerance and stability, through effectively using of education and public awareness campaigns focused on the importance of tolerance, patience, and understanding in marriage can help shift societal attitudes. Schools and universities can incorporate these values into their curricula, teaching the younger generation about the importance of compromise and empathy in relationships. Alongside, establishing community support networks, such as marriage counseling centers and support groups, can provide couples with resources to address their issues before they escalate to divorce. These networks can offer guidance, mediation, and emotional support, helping couples resolve conflicts amicably.But herein, it is a media responsibility to plays a powerful role in shaping societal norms and values. By promoting positive portrayals of marriage and relationships, the media can counteract the influence of Western culture and reinforce the importance of commitment, loyalty, and compromise in marriage. Therefore, to strengthening legal frameworks system must protect the rights of individuals seeking divorce, and as a mediation lawyer, I would recommend that it should also encourage reconciliation and mediation. Strengthening the legal framework to include mandatory mediation sessions before granting a divorce could help reduce the number of marriages ending in divorce.Being a practicing divorce lawyer, I would strongly say that understanding the intricacies of marriage dissolution is crucial for both the parties involved. Each case presents unique challenges, whether it’s navigating the legal procedures, addressing financial concerns, or managing the emotional toll. My experience has shown that a thorough and empathetic approach is essential to achieving a resolution that upholds the dignity and rights of all parties.

I do hereby summarize it, in the view of a divorce lawyer in Islamabad, the rising divorce rate in Pakistan is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. Addressing this challenge requires a multifaceted approach that includes premarital education, economic support, the promotion of Islamic values, and robust social measures. Having law practiced of over the years as a family lawyer, I would say, by fostering a culture of tolerance, understanding, and compromise, we can work towards creating a society where marriages are stronger, families are more resilient, and the sanctity of marriage is preserved.

For detailed information, guidance and legal advice, do contact SJ Law Experts, Islamabad – Pakistan.