Divorce & Matrimonial Law

Clear legal guidance through divorce, separation, and matrimonial proceedings in Nigeria.

Practical Guidance When a Marriage Comes to an End

Divorce involves more than bringing a marriage to an end. Questions may arise concerning children, financial support, property, living arrangements, and the legal obligations of each spouse.

Ren Attorneys advises and represents clients through matrimonial proceedings with a focus on protecting their legal interests, resolving disputes effectively, and providing clear guidance at every stage of the process.

Whether the matter is contested or uncontested, we help clients understand their legal position and determine the appropriate way forward.

Main Services

  • Divorce & Dissolution of Marriage

    Legal advice and representation throughout divorce proceedings, from preparing and filing the petition to obtaining the final dissolution of the marriage.

  • Child Custody & Parenting Arrangements

    Guidance and representation in disputes concerning custody, care, access, and arrangements for children following separation or divorce.

  • Child & Spousal Maintenance

    Advice and representation concerning financial support for children and spouses, including maintenance applications and related disputes.

  • Matrimonial Property & Financial Matters

    Legal guidance on disputes concerning matrimonial property, financial interests, assets, and other issues arising from the breakdown of a marriage.

  • Separation & Settlement Agreements

    Preparation and negotiation of agreements addressing separation, children, financial responsibilities, property, and other matrimonial arrangements.

  • Matrimonial Disputes & Court Representation

    Strategic representation in contested matrimonial proceedings, including complex disputes requiring negotiation, evidence, and court intervention.

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Understanding the Divorce Process

 

  • We review the circumstances of the marriage, discuss the issues involved, and advise you on your legal options.

  • Proceedings are commenced before the appropriate court and the required documents are served on the other party.

  • Depending on whether the matter is contested, proceedings may involve evidence, negotiations, applications, and determination of related issues.

  • Where the Court is satisfied that the legal requirements have been established, the appropriate decree may be granted in accordance with Nigerian matrimonial law.

 

FAQs

How do I file for divorce in Nigeria?

In Nigeria, before divorce can be granted, certain stipulated grounds must be met. we take your testimony and draft a petition which will be filed at the high court

How long does a divorce take in Nigeria?

Divorce proceedings can take anywhere between 3 months to 12 months. It depends on how contentious it is. Decree Absolute is granted 3 months after judgement.

Can my spouse refuse to give me a divorce?

It does not matter if your spouse agrees to the divorce or not. Once the grounds for dissolution of marriage is met, the judge will grant the divorce

Can I claim maintenance during a divorce?

Yes, if your situation demands it, an interlocutory order can be made for maintenance even while the divorce proceedings are still on going.

What happens to property acquired during the marriage?

Matrimononial Property must be shared between both parties. However, matrimonial property is not automatic, it must be proven during trial.

Can I file for divorce in Nigeria if I live abroad?

You don’t have to be physically in Nigeria to file for divoce in Nigeria. Proceedings can be conducted virtually where you are made to appear via electronic means.

Do both spouses have to appear in court?

Both parties do not have to appear in court. As long as the judge is convinced that all parties are aware of the proceedings, the trial can continue without a party being present

Can I get divorced if I was married for less than two years?

Yes you can. However, it is only on specific grounds which are detailed in the Matrimonial Causes Act. If the reason for your divorce does not fall here, the you must wait for your marriage to be over 2 years before filing

How is child custody determined after divorce?

Child Custody is usually one of the most contentious areas in divorce. Custody can be done at interlocutory level or as a final order of the divorce proceeding.

Contested vs Uncontested Divorce

Where Both Parties Agree

Even where spouses broadly agree to separate, the divorce must still follow the applicable legal process. Proper documentation and legal guidance can help ensure that all necessary issues are addressed.

Where There Is a Dispute

Where there are disagreements concerning the divorce, children, maintenance, property, or other matters, effective legal representation becomes particularly important.