Your Questions About Mutual Divorce in Kolkata, Answered
How do I start a mutual divorce in Kolkata?
Beginning a mutual divorce in Kolkata is as straightforward as bargaining at Gariahat. Both spouses must agree to part ways and settle terms like alimony, custody, and property. Under Section 13B of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, file a joint petition at Kolkata Family Court, near the iconic National Library, or online via kolkata online website. Submit your documents, attend two hearings (First and Second Motion), and expect your decree in 6–9 months—or as fast as 2–3 months if the cooling-off period is waived. Start today with our online divorce form.
What documents do I need for a mutual divorce in Kolkata?
You’ll need your Marriage Certificate (or wedding invitation card, common in Kolkata), two joint wedding photos, two passport-size photos per spouse, and address proof like Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Passport. If you have children, include their birth certificates and a notarized custody agreement. Optional documents, such as a settlement agreement or income proof (e.g., salary slips), can streamline alimony terms, per Calcutta High Court guidelines. We’ll guide you to ensure everything’s ready for Alipore Family Court.
How much will a mutual divorce cost in Kolkata?
In Kolkata, divorce costs can vary like the crowds at New Market, typically ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹80,000. This includes court fees (₹500–₹2,000), lawyer charges (₹15,000–₹60,000), mediation (₹1,000–₹3,000), notarization (₹500–₹2,000), and travel (₹500–₹2,000). Complex cases in areas like Ballygunge might hit ₹1,00,000. Our Mutual Divorce Online package is a flat ₹40,000, split into four ₹10,000 payments, offering clarity and savings for everyone, from Bhawanipur to Barasat.
Can I skip the 6-month cooling-off period in Kolkata?
Yes, you can request to waive the 6-month cooling-off period if you’ve been separated for 18 months or show irreconcilable differences, as allowed by Calcutta High Court rulings. File a waiver request with notarized affidavits at your First Motion hearing at Kolkata Family Court. If approved, your divorce could wrap up in 2–3 months—perfect for busy professionals in Kolkata’s Sector V or Salt Lake.
How is child custody handled in a Kolkata mutual divorce?
At Koklata Family Court, your child’s well-being comes first under Section 13B. You and your spouse decide on joint custody (shared parenting) or sole custody (one parent with visitation rights). Submit your child’s birth certificate and a notarized custody agreement. The court, sometimes with counselors, ensures the plan is fair, allowing changes later if needed. Learn more about our child custody services tailored for Kolkata families.
Can I file for mutual divorce in Kolkata if my spouse is abroad or in another city?
Definitely. You can file in Kolkata if one spouse lives here (say, in Tollygunge) or if your marriage was solemnized in Kolkata, per Section 19 of the Hindu Marriage Act. We make it easy for couples separated by distance, including NRIs, using video conferencing for hearings at the Family Court, as supported by Calcutta High Court’s 2025 digital guidelines.
How do I handle property division in a Kolkata mutual divorce?
Property division in Kolkata’s mutual divorce is part of your settlement agreement, covering assets like flats in Rajarhat or ancestral homes in North Kolkata. Both spouses negotiate terms, which are notarized and submitted with your petition at the Family Court. Clear documentation, like property deeds or bank statements, helps avoid disputes. Our team ensures your agreement is fair and legally sound, saving you from the hassle of a Dakshineswar queue.