170 likes | 533 Views
The Marriage Contract . [ Nikahnama ] Presented by Shahina Akbar Advocate High Court, Pakistan. BACKGROUND. My Inspiration I did not see my marriage contract, nor did I know my rights before signing it. Legal Rights vs. Custom/Culture Strike-out clauses that give women legal rights
E N D
The Marriage Contract [Nikahnama] Presented by Shahina Akbar Advocate High Court, Pakistan
BACKGROUND • My Inspiration • I did not see my marriage contract, nor did I know my rights before signing it. • Legal Rights vs. Custom/Culture • Strike-out clauses that give women legal rights • Delays in legal case; no financial rights • Studied law and fought my own case.
OBJECTIVE • To create awareness about the marriage contract • To secure more favorable terms for women in marriage.
The Problem • Women suffering from unfavorable marriage conditions. • Causes: • Lack of Awareness • Elder men handle the marriage contract signing • Couples are uninformed 6
Strategy For Change • Lecture in homes, schools, colleges, vocational centers, First Women Bank, hospitals, professional & non-professional women clubs • Explain the marriage contract • Highlight the bride’s right to: • A representative or lawyer; • Divorce; • Place conditions on divorce from husband • Maintenance, allowance • Certificate of divorce/deeds • Role of Arbitration Council
Strategy For Change • Identify Obstacles To Change • Question & Answer Session • Cultural Obstacles • Techniques to Overcome Obstacles • Engage family members • Avoiding tampering of contract • Know Your Legal Rights • Family Courts Act
Outcome Success Stories I am invited to marriages in order to assist filling out the marriage contract. As a result, I have been able to help ensure the bride’s right to divorce and reasonable Mahr payable on demand.