About Divorce & Separation Law in Manila, Philippines
The Philippines is one of the few countries in the world where divorce remains largely unavailable. However, there are legal means to end marriages, such as annulment and legal separation. Annulment seeks to establish that the marriage never legally existed, while legal separation allows spouses to live separately, but the marriage remains in existence.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Navigating the complex legal processes associated with annulment and legal separation can be challenging and emotional. Working with a knowledgeable lawyer can help ensure that your rights are protected, your interests are advocated for, and that the precise requirements of the law are adhered to. They can support you in handling matters such as property division, child custody, child support, and alimony.
Local Laws Overview
In Manila, Philippines, annulment is more common than legal separation. Annulment can be granted on various grounds including psychological incapacity, fraud, force, intimidation or undue influence, and impotence or physical incapability. Legal separation can be granted upon grounds such as repeated physical violence or grossly abusive conduct directed against the petitioner, physical violence or moral pressure to compel the petitioner to change religious or political affiliation, and attempt of respondent to corrupt or induce the petitioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the legal grounds for annulment in Manila, Philippines?
Some legal grounds include psychological incapacity, fraud, force, intimidation or undue influence, impotence or physical incapability among others.
What is the difference between legal separation and annulment?
In annulment, the court declares that the marriage is invalid from the beginning. In legal separation, the couple is still married but are legally permitted to live separately.
How long does the annulment process take?
The annulment process can take anywhere between 1 to 2 years, or longer in some cases, largely depending on the intricacies of the case and the efficiency of the judicial system.
What happens to shared property after the annulment?
The division of assets and property is determined by the court during the annulment process. Depending on the nature of the property and the agreement between the parties, the court distributes the properties equitably.
How does legal separation affect child custody?
Child custody is determined by the court as part of the legal separation process based on the best interests of the child.
Additional Resources
Families in the Philippines can find support from various government bodies and organizations, such as The Philippine Commission on Women, The Department of Social Welfare and Development, and The Public Attorney's Office.
Next Steps
If you are going through separation or seeking an annulment, consulting with a reputable family lawyer familiar with Manila laws should be your first step. They can guide you through the process, advise you on your rights and obligations, assist in arrangements related to property, finances, and children, and ensure you make informed decisions.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Manila through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Divorce & Separation, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Manila, Philippines - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please
contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
