Filing for divorce in Ranchi can be overwhelming if you don’t know the legal procedure. This comprehensive guide by Advocate Ankit Burman, an experienced divorce lawyer in Ranchi, explains everything you need to know about filing a divorce case at the Family Court in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
Types of Divorce Under Indian Law
Before understanding how to file, you must know which type of divorce applies to your situation:
1. Mutual Consent Divorce (Section 13B, Hindu Marriage Act)
When both spouses agree to divorce and have lived separately for at least one year, they can file a joint petition. This is the quickest type of divorce in Ranchi.
2. Contested Divorce (Section 13, Hindu Marriage Act)
When one spouse wants a divorce on specific grounds such as cruelty, desertion (2+ years), adultery, unsoundness of mind, or incurable disease, they file a contested divorce petition.
Which Court Handles Divorce in Ranchi?
Divorce cases in Ranchi are filed at the Principal Judge Family Court, Ranchi. This is a specialized court that handles all matrimonial cases including divorce, maintenance, child custody, and domestic violence.
Step-by-Step Procedure to File Divorce in Ranchi
Step 1: Consult a Divorce Lawyer in Ranchi
The first step is to consult an experienced divorce advocate in Ranchi who will advise you on the grounds, documents required, and expected timeline.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Marriage certificate / Nikah Nama
- Photos from marriage
- Address proof (Aadhaar Card)
- Evidence supporting grounds for divorce
- Income documents (if seeking maintenance)
- Documents related to children (for custody)
Step 3: Draft and File the Divorce Petition
Your lawyer will draft the divorce petition stating the facts of the case and the legal grounds. The petition is filed at the Family Court counter in Ranchi with the required court fees.
Step 4: Service of Notice
The court issues notice to the other spouse. If the spouse fails to appear, the court may proceed ex-parte.
Step 5: Mediation (Mandatory in India)
Courts in Ranchi follow the Supreme Court’s direction to attempt reconciliation/mediation before proceeding with the divorce trial.
Step 6: Trial and Evidence
If mediation fails, the case proceeds to trial where both parties present evidence and witnesses.
Step 7: Final Decree
After hearing both sides, the Family Court passes the divorce decree.
How Long Does Divorce Take in Ranchi?
- Mutual Consent Divorce: 6 months to 1.5 years
- Contested Divorce: 2 to 5 years depending on complexity
Cost of Divorce in Ranchi
The cost depends on the type of divorce, complexity, and lawyer fees. Advocate Ankit Burman offers transparent and affordable fee structures for all divorce cases.
Need Help Filing a Divorce Case in Ranchi?
Contact Advocate Ankit Burman – the leading divorce lawyer in Ranchi – for a free initial consultation.
📞 Call: +91 7384818188
📍 Office: Near Civil Court, Ranchi, Jharkhand – 834001