Category: Family Law
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Do Both Parties Have to Sign Divorce Papers in Nigeria?
Do both parties have to sign divorce papers in Nigeria? No. Under Nigerian law, a statutory marriage is not dissolved simply because both spouses sign an agreement or consent to the divorce. Divorce proceedings are commenced by filing a petition before the court, and only a competent court can grant a decree dissolving the marriage.
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Steps to File for Divorce in Nigeria
How do you file for divorce in Nigeria? This article explains the legal process under the Matrimonial Causes Act, including grounds for divorce, court procedures, and the steps from filing a petition to obtaining a decree absolute.
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Is a Promise to Marry Legally Enforceable in Nigeria?
A promise to marry may have legal consequences under Nigerian law. This article explains the essential elements of a breach of promise to marry and the Supreme Court’s position in Ezeanah v. Atta.
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Legal Custody of Children in Nigeria
Child custody disputes in Nigeria are determined with regard to established legal principles and the factors courts consider when deciding what is in the best interests of the child.
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Marital Property and Joint Ownership in Nigerian Matrimonial Proceedings
Nigerian courts consider various legal principles when determining rights to marital property and questions of joint ownership during matrimonial proceedings.
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Adoption of Terms of Settlement in Dissolution of Marriage Cases: What You Should Know
Although parties may agree on ancillary matters such as custody, maintenance and property, the dissolution of a statutory marriage must satisfy the requirements of Nigerian law and cannot simply be based on an agreement to divorce.
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Bigamy Under Nigerian Law: Meaning, Elements and Legal Consequences
Bigamy occurs where a person enters into another marriage while a previous legally valid marriage remains subsisting, exposing the person to possible criminal liability under Nigerian law.
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Marriage, Paternity, and Inheritance Under Nigerian Law
Marriage, paternity and inheritance are closely connected under Nigerian law, particularly in determining the validity of family relationships and entitlement to inherit from an estate.
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A Look at Divorce Proceedings in Olaniyan v. Olaniyan: Testimony, Evidence, and Grounds for Dissolution
Divorce proceedings in Nigeria involve specific statutory requirements, including proof that a marriage has broken down irretrievably. Learn whether a petitioner must personally testify and the evidence required to support a petition for dissolution of marriage.
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Proving Desertion in Matrimonial Cases
Desertion is more than spouses living apart. Nigerian matrimonial law requires proof of specific elements before desertion can be relied upon in a petition for dissolution of marriage.
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Legal Adoption and Guardianship in Abuja, Nigeria
Considering adoption or legal guardianship in Abuja? Learn the key differences between adoption and guardianship, the role of the Family Court and important legal considerations.