Explain the legal and personal background

Bring the marriage certificate if available and describe when, where, and how the marriage took place. Tell the advocate about the parties’ circumstances, any earlier proceedings, and where each person now lives. Applicable marriage and personal laws can differ, so another family’s outcome is not a reliable template. Include notices and orders even if you believe a previous matter has ended.

Separate immediate needs from final decisions

Make a short list of urgent concerns, such as living expenses, a child’s school arrangements, access to documents, or an upcoming hearing. Tell counsel immediately about violence, threats, or coercion; immediate danger calls for emergency assistance. A final decision about the relationship may take a different route from a request for interim support or protection. Ask which issues can be addressed promptly.

Prepare an honest financial picture

Collect available income records, bank statements, housing costs, school expenses, medical bills, and information about debts or assets. Mark estimates as estimates and explain any irregular income. Maintenance is not safely predicted by applying a universal percentage found online. Ask what disclosure is needed for the relevant proceeding and how existing support orders or payments should be brought to the court’s attention.

Describe children’s needs in practical terms

Record ordinary routines, school commitments, health needs, and the present caregiving arrangement. Keep the discussion focused on the child’s welfare rather than using contact as leverage in a financial disagreement. Show your advocate any existing orders before changing arrangements. If communication between adults is difficult or unsafe, explain the difficulty so that a workable and appropriate approach can be considered.

Discuss settlement with proper safeguards

The Family Courts Act encourages efforts toward settlement where the nature and circumstances permit it. That does not make every proposed compromise suitable. Ask what each term means for money, property, children, and future proceedings, and which steps are required to give it legal effect. Do not sign an unclear document because a relative describes it as informal. Retain a complete copy of any agreed terms.

Make a useful file

Your document checklist

  • Marriage and identity records, notices, and existing orders.
  • A separate list of immediate safety or support concerns.
  • Income, expenses, assets, debts, and past support payments.
  • Children’s routines and questions about any proposed settlement.

Reference points: India Code, Family Courts Act, 1984, particularly sections 7 and 9; NALSA, legal-aid eligibility guidance. Reviewed September 30, 2026.