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Browse our 41 legal questions about Divorce & Separation in Philippines and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
Divorce is not legal in the Philippines, barring Islamic law as an exemption. For those married under other religions and civil ceremonies, annulment and legal separation are the existing legal options. Annulment nullifies the marriage, presuming it didn't exist, while legal separation allows couples to live apart but they remain legally married.
You may require a lawyer for consultation and legal advice when you decide to pursue legal separation or annulment. Alternately, if you are opposing a request for an annulment or legal separation made by your spouse, it is advisable that you consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and responsibilities. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, assist you in preparing the necessary documents, represent you in court, and provide you with important legal advice.
The Family Code of the Philippines governs marriage and family laws, including annulments and legal separations. Under the law, legal separation may be filed on grounds such as repeated physical violence, drug addiction, attempt on the life of a spouse, among others. Annulment on the other hand can be filed on grounds like psychological incapacity, fraud, or physical incapability. Both processes are complex, time-consuming, and involve the presentation of evidence to the court.
No, divorce is not legal in Meycauayan, or anywhere in the Philippines, except for Muslim Filipinos who are governed by the Code of Muslim Personal Laws (CMPL)
Annulment nullifies a marriage, meaning it’s as if the marriage never existed. Legal separation, however, doesn't nullify a marriage but allows the husband and wife to live separately.
Grounds include physical violence, psychological abuse, drug addiction or conviction of a crime carrying more than six years imprisonment, among others.
The process can take several months to several years depending on the complexity of the case.
No, a legally separated couple cannot remarry as they are still considered legally married under Philippine law.
People seeking legal advice can consult with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines or the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) offer free legal advice for family law matters. These include the Women's Legal Bureau and the Children's Legal Rights and Development Center.
If you are considering pursuing or opposing a legal separation or annulment, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer. Make sure to gather all relevant documents and be ready to provide detailed information about your marriage and the events leading to your decision. If your income is limited, you may seek free legal aid from the aforementioned NGOs.
