A wife’s financial rights do not depend on the goodwill of her husband or his family. Pakistani law gives her an enforceable right to maintenance (nafaqa) during the marriage and iddat, to her full haq mehr (dower), and to the return of her dowry articles and personal belongings. Children are entitled to maintenance from their father regardless of who has custody.
Our women advocates file and pursue these claims before the Family Court — often together with khula or custody — including applications for interim maintenance so that you and your children are supported while the case is pending, and execution proceedings when a decree is not paid.
Relevant Laws, Rules & Ordinances
- Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961 — section 9 (maintenance) and section 10 (dower)
- West Pakistan Family Courts Act, 1964 — Family Court jurisdiction over dower, maintenance, dowry and personal property of the wife; interim maintenance
- Dowry and Bridal Gifts (Restriction) Act, 1976
- Guardian and Wards Act, 1890 (children's maintenance alongside custody)
- Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (execution of decrees, as applied by the Family Courts)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between prompt and deferred haq mehr?
Prompt (mu’ajjal) dower is payable on demand at any time after the nikah. Deferred (mu’wajjal) dower becomes payable on dissolution of the marriage by death or divorce. Where the nikahnama does not specify the mode of payment, the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance treats the entire dower as payable on demand.
Can I claim maintenance for the months my husband did not support me?
Yes. The Family Court can award maintenance for past periods in which the husband failed to maintain his wife and children, as well as future monthly maintenance. Bring whatever evidence you have of his income and of the period of non-support.
Can I get my dowry articles back after separation?
Yes. Dowry articles and gifts given to the bride are her own property. A suit for recovery of dowry articles (or their value) can be filed in the Family Court — lists, receipts, photographs and witnesses from the wedding all help prove the claim.
Will I get any money while the case is still going on?
The Family Court can fix interim maintenance for the wife and children at an early stage of the case, so that the family is not left without support during litigation. Non-payment of interim maintenance can have serious consequences for the husband’s defence.
What if my husband still does not pay after the decree?
The decree can be executed through the Family Court, which has coercive powers to recover the amount — including attachment of property and salary. We handle execution proceedings so the decree actually turns into money in your hands.
Get Help With Maintenance, Haq Mehr & Dowry
Every case is different, and the guidance above is general information, not a substitute for advice on your specific facts. If you’re dealing with a maintenance, haq mehr & dowry matter, our women advocates offer a free first consultation to review your situation and explain your options — reach out below or via WhatsApp to get started.