Finding the Right Solicitors for Family Law Who Understands Both UK and Indian Laws
If you are an Indian living in the UK and thinking about divorce, you might feel unsure about what to do. UK law is clear and modern, but Indian marriage laws are based on family traditions and culture. When money, property, or children are involved, things can become even more complicated.
This guide will help you find the right family solicitor who understands both UK and Indian laws. With the right help, you can handle your case calmly and with confidence.
Why Indians in the UK Need Special Divorce Lawyers
For many Indians living in the UK, divorce is not straightforward. You may have married in India under the Hindu Marriage Act, Special Marriage Act, or Muslim Law. Now you want a UK court to accept your divorce. The challenge is to make sure both countries’ laws work together.
A normal divorce lawyer might know UK law well but may not understand how Indian law affects your marriage, property, or children. That is why it helps to find an Indian or international divorce attorney who understands both sides.
Since 2022, the UK has used a no-fault divorce system, which means no one has to blame the other person. This makes the process smoother. But if your marriage or property is connected to India, your lawyer needs to understand both legal systems.
Qualities of a Good Family Solicitor Near You
1. Knowledge of UK Family Law
Look for solicitors who deal with property, child custody, and prenuptial agreements.
A good divorce solicitor or barrister can make the whole process easier.
If money is a concern, search for fixed-fee divorce solicitors near me or affordable divorce lawyers.
2. Understanding of Indian Laws
Your solicitor should know Indian laws like the Hindu Marriage Act, Muslim Law, or Special Marriage Act.
They should also understand how Indian courts deal with property, children, and marriage validity.
A trusted Indian solicitor near me will understand both your culture and your legal needs.
3. Experience with Cross-Border Cases
Many NRIs ask, “Should I file for divorce in the UK or India?”
The answer depends on where you live, your assets, and your goals.
An experienced international divorce lawyer near me can help you decide and work with lawyers in India to avoid delays.
How UK and Indian Divorce Laws Work Together
- The UK Divorce Process
In the UK, couples can apply for divorce after 20 weeks.
The court focuses on fair division of money and child arrangements.
If you own property in India, your solicitor must make sure the UK court’s order is accepted in India too.
- Indian Marriage Laws in the UK Context
Even if you get divorced in the UK, Indian courts may still decide on things like dowry, ancestral property, or marriage recognition.
Under the Hindu Marriage Act (1955), cruelty, adultery, and desertion are still valid reasons for divorce in India.
New Indian Law – Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023
India has introduced a new criminal law called the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
It does not replace marriage laws but adds stronger punishment for cruelty in marriage under Section 69.
This helps protect spouses better, especially in cases involving abuse or violence.
Recent Court Rulings
- In 2024, the Supreme Court of India said divorce can be granted if a marriage has fully broken down, even if one person disagrees.
- In 2025, another case gave an NRI woman more alimony and property rights, showing that Indian courts are becoming fairer.
How to Find the Right Family Solicitor Near You
Step 1: Search Online Properly
Use search terms like Indian divorce lawyer UK, international divorce lawyers, or family solicitors London.
This helps you find experts who understand both Indian and UK laws.
Step 2: Check Their Experience
Look for law firms that are part of Resolution UK, a group that promotes peaceful divorces.
Ask if they have handled NRI or international divorce cases before.
Step 3: Ask Simple Questions
When you meet a lawyer, ask:
- Have you worked with clients married in India before?
- Do you work with Indian lawyers?
- How does UK divorce affect Indian property?
A good solicitor will explain everything clearly in plain English.
Step 4: Discuss the Fees
Ask for a written estimate.
Many affordable divorce solicitors near me offer fixed fees for simple cases.
If your case involves property or children, costs might be higher, but they should be clearly explained.
Step 5: Choose the Right Support
If you have children, you may also need a custody lawyer.
If you have property or large assets in both countries, you might need high net worth divorce solicitors for proper financial planning.
Caring for Yourself During Divorce
Divorce can be stressful, especially when you are far from family.
It helps to talk to friends, support groups, or counsellors.
You can also try mediation to sort things peacefully before going to court.
If your case involves property or money in two countries, an international divorce solicitor can help keep things fair for both sides.
Remember, divorce is not the end. It is a new beginning and a chance to rebuild your life.
FAQs
1. Can I get divorced in the UK if I married in India?
Yes. If you live in the UK, you can apply for divorce here, even if your marriage was registered in India.
2. Do I need lawyers in both countries?
Yes, if you have property or legal matters in India.
3. What is a no-fault divorce?
It means you do not have to blame anyone. You simply agree the marriage has ended.
4. Will a UK divorce be valid in India?
Usually yes, if both partners take part in the UK case. The Indian court will then confirm it.
5. How much do cheap divorce solicitors near me charge?
A simple divorce may cost about £500–£1,000. More complex cases cost more.
6. Can I get legal aid for divorce?
Yes, if your income is low. You can check this on the UK government website.
7. What happens with child custody in UK-India cases?
Both countries focus on what is best for the child.
If you are worried your child may be taken abroad, contact a family law solicitor near me who understands international custody cases.
Outlook: The Future for NRI Divorce Cases
As more Indians live abroad, more couples need family solicitors who understand both UK and Indian laws.
Both countries are working to make divorce laws fairer and simpler.
Choosing the right family solicitor is not only about law it’s about support and understanding.
With the right help, you can move forward with peace and dignity.
About LawCrust
LawCrust Legal Consulting, part of LawCrust Global Consulting Ltd., is a top law firm helping NRI clients with cross-border legal issues.
We specialise in:
- Divorce and Family Law
- International Legal Consulting
- Litigation Finance and Management
With more than 50 offices in India and over 70 expert lawyers, LawCrust gives complete support for complex international cases.
LawCrust Group also includes LawCrust Realty, LawCrust Ventures, LawCrust Hybrid Consulting, Gensact, LawCrust Foundation, and LawCrust Consumer Products.