Daughters, wives, mothers and sisters have fixed shares in inheritance under Islamic law and Pakistani statute — yet women are routinely pressured into “gifting” or relinquishing their share to male relatives. Depriving a woman of her inheritance by deceitful or illegal means is a criminal offence, and dedicated laws now let women complain to the Ombudsperson for speedy recovery of property.
Our women advocates trace your share, obtain succession certificates, challenge relinquishment deeds and gift mutations obtained under pressure, and file complaints under the Women’s Property Rights Acts or partition suits as needed.
Relevant Laws, Rules & Ordinances
- Enforcement of Women's Property Rights Act, 2020 (federal — complaints to the Federal Ombudsperson)
- Punjab Enforcement of Women's Property Rights Act, 2021 (complaints to the Ombudsperson Punjab)
- Pakistan Penal Code, 1860 — section 498-A (depriving women of inheriting property)
- West Pakistan Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1962
- Succession Act, 1925 and the Punjab Letters of Administration and Succession Certificates Act, 2021 (NADRA Succession Facilitation Units)
- Partition Act, 1893 and Land Revenue Act, 1967 (partition and mutation)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a daughter's share in her father's estate?
Under Islamic law as applied in Pakistan, a daughter receives half the share of a son. If there are no sons, one daughter receives half of the estate and two or more daughters share two-thirds, with the remainder going to other heirs.
What is a widow's share?
A widow receives one-eighth of her husband’s estate if he left children, and one-fourth if he left no children. Several widows share that portion equally.
I signed away my share under family pressure. Can it be undone?
Often, yes. Relinquishment or gift deeds obtained through pressure, fraud or without real consent can be challenged, and courts look closely at such transactions with female heirs. Act early and bring every document you have.
How does an Ombudsperson complaint work?
Under the Women’s Property Rights Acts, a woman deprived of ownership or possession of property can file a complaint with the Ombudsperson, who can call reports from the Deputy Commissioner and pass orders for restoring her rights — usually much faster than a civil suit.
How do I get a succession certificate?
In Punjab and Islamabad, succession certificates for movable assets such as bank accounts are issued through NADRA Succession Facilitation Units; contested matters go to court. We help prepare the family tree and documents so that no female heir is left out.
Get Help With Inheritance & Women's Property Rights
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 inheritance & women's property rights 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.