The Disappearance of Instant Divorce

While a divorce lawyer can help individuals in Cincinnati and elsewhere maneuver through court proceedings, the process can take a long time. However, in India, “instant divorces” used to be quite common, even if it was only available to Muslim men and not their wives. In modern times, this practice is increasingly becoming a distant historical memory.

In 2019, India’s Supreme Court voted 3-2 to criminalize triple talaq or “instant divorce.” Experts predicted that this decision would positively impact the lives of Muslim women throughout that country. The divorce attorney community took notice when the decision was announced in New Delhi.

Historically, Muslim men could end their marriages simply by uttering three times the word talaq, the Arabic word for divorce. It should be noted that the Koran does not include any reference to this practice. It is controversial among some Islamic religious scholars.

Before the Supreme Court ruling, when a man wanted to end his marriage, he had to say “talaq” three times (triple talaq), which was enough to dissolve the union. Men could announce the triple talaq over the phone, write it in a letter, or say it face-to-face. Along with this utterance, men would often end their marriages without agreeing to alimony payments or any other form of financial support for their wives post-divorce.

By comparison, Muslim women did not enjoy the same rights. A wife seeking a divorce was required by Indian law to obtain permission from a cleric, her husband, or some other official.

Two of those justices on India’s Supreme Court voted to end the practice, claiming it was unconstitutional, and the third said the practice violated Islamic law. The talaq practice is losing popularity and approval across the broader Muslim world and in other countries. According to experts, this court decision may encourage other countries to ban this practice from their legal systems. India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, spoke favorably of the decision, calling it a “powerful measure for women’s empowerment.”

Cincinnati Divorce Lawyer Assistance

If you are considering divorce or dissolution, it is essential to seek assistance from a divorce attorney. If you live in Cincinnati, you can call Donnellon, Donnellon, & Miller at 513-891-7087 to get sound legal advice and guidance as you move forward. Our office is located at 9079 Montgomery Road. You can also reach us through the online contact form.