Written and reviewed by Adv. Tanmay S. Shirsat, Advocate, High Court of Bombay. Consultations in English, Hindi and Marathi, in person or by video call. Last updated October 2026.
Cases Heard at the Family Court
- Mutual consent and contested divorce
- Maintenance for spouses and children
- Child custody, visitation and guardianship
- Restitution of conjugal rights and judicial separation
- Declarations about marital status and other matrimonial disputes
Applications under the Domestic Violence Act are generally filed before the Magistrate, although relief under that Act may also be sought in proceedings already pending before the Family Court.
What to Expect at the Family Court
- Filing: The petition is filed with supporting documents and an affidavit, and notice is issued to the other party.
- Counselling and mediation: Parties are usually referred to the court's marriage counsellors or to mediation to explore a settlement.
- Interim applications: Applications for interim maintenance, custody or access may be heard while the case is pending.
- Evidence: If a settlement is not possible, the parties file evidence and witnesses are examined.
- Judgment or decree: The court passes its final order, which may be appealed to the High Court.
Under the Family Courts Act, 1984, a party is not entitled as of right to be represented by an advocate, but the court may permit it. Advocates also prepare petitions and applications and advise clients throughout the case.
Preparing for Your Hearing
- Marriage certificate and proof of marriage, where relevant
- Income documents for maintenance claims
- Children's school and medical records for custody matters
- Copies of all earlier orders and notices
- A short written chronology of the key events
Why Chambers Near BKC Help
The office in Kurla West is a short drive from the Family Court in Bandra East, which makes it practical to meet before a hearing, collect documents and respond quickly to interim developments. Consultations are by appointment, in person or by video call.