Islamic Family Law

Our specialist team is experienced in Islamic law and the unique family law issues that people in the Muslim community may face. We advise on matters related to Islamic marriage, divorce, finances and children with sensitivity, offering expert support that’s tailored to our clients’ faith, religious requirements and priorities.

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Shereen Chohan

Really listening to people, to find out what they want and need, is the key to being able to give them the help and support necessary in matters of family law, and that’s my main priority. Whether it’s a divorce and the financial issues that accompany that, or a question of disputes over children in a relationship, I aim to give pragmatic and straightforward advice.

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An Islamic mother with her daughter

Our experience

Our expert family lawyers have specialist knowledge on Islamic family law and a real understanding of Muslim culture, religion and the sensitive nature of marital issues.

With connections to Islamic scholars and the Sharia Council, our team can advise on all aspects of Islamic marriage and divorce, whether initiated by the man (Talaq) or woman (Khula).

Islamic marriage and divorce

In Islam, marriage (Nikah) is a religious contract that comes with its own religious and legal implications, particularly in matters of divorce and inheritance that are not automatically covered by civil law.

Our specialist Islamic family solicitors understand that Islamic laws need to be considered along with any legal requirements for marriage and divorce in the UK. Our team can explain your rights, help you think about protecting your assets and assist with writing up your Nikah Nama before your Islamic marriage.

In the event of a relationship breakdown, either husband or wife can initiate divorce proceedings under Islamic law. We can offer guidance on obtaining a Khula or Talaq, support clients with their obligations to one another during the Iddat period and explore options for annulment.

Our team can also provide specialist advice on financial and child-related matters during Islamic divorce procedures.

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Family law advice for the Muslim community

Every marriage and family is different. We recognise the sensitive nature of family law issues and deliver personalised advice to each client, providing a bespoke service in every case.

Our specialist Islamic family solicitors can help with:

  • Drafting Islamic marriage contracts (Nikah Nama)
  • Deciding on the marriage gift (Mahr) and the rules relating to this
  • Islamic divorce procedures and the various options in Talaq and Khula
  • Advice on Iddat – the waiting period after the termination of marriage
  • Annulments
  • Referrals to Islamic marriage counselling and mediation
  • Financial settlements after divorce
  • Arrangements for your children after divorce
  • Foreign marriages and international divorces, where your spouse may be living abroad
  • Jurisdiction issues.

FAQs about Islamic Family Law

Under current law, Islamic marriages in the UK are not legally recognised unless a civil ceremony is also conducted.

The validity of your Nikah depends on the circumstances of your marriage, including where and how it took place. Our expert team can advise.

A Talaq divorce usually takes around three to four months, as you need to factor in the three-month Iddat (waiting) period.

Yes, once you’ve completed the waiting period of Iddat, you can remarry. Our team can advise on the drafting of the Nikkah Nama (marriage contract) for your next marriage.

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Hear what our clients say about us

I can’t thank James Osborne and Lauren Powell-Bateson enough for the support they have given me during one of the most difficult times in my life. Their professionalism, compassion, and dedication have been truly outstanding from start to finish.

They guided me through every step with clear advice, patience, and genuine care, always making me feel supported and understood. Having solicitors who are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also kind and approachable made such a difference during a very challenging time. If you are looking for a family law solicitor, I would highly recommend James Osborne and Lauren Powell-Bateson. They have been absolutely fantastic.

Client testimonial Ms J G – Family Law

Thank you so much for you help and support in the preparation and at the hearing. I am so pleased with the order that we secured. It’s a huge relief.

Client testimonial Family law

I want to say a huge thank you to you and your team. You’ve been fantastic and have fully supported me and my children through this difficult journey. I can’t really thank you enough.
It’s great to know that you’re there too, if anything crops up in the future.

Client testimonial Family law

Amy’s help in this matter has been much appreciated and she made the process very smooth.

Client testimonial Family law

Thank you so much for the way in which this matter has been handled. You were so quick to get to grips with what is a complex case and we felt not only that the matter was in good hand professionally, with a clear direction, but that we were also listened to and supported on a personal level.

Client testimonial Family law

Thankyou so much for working on this cohabitation agreement for me, I always appreciate the extra effort you make.

Client testimonial Cohabitation agreement

At every step, Gweni was clear in her communication, strong willed but also empathetic when the stress of the process was a lot to deal with. I will always be grateful for Gweni’s (and her team’s) drive to ensure a positive outcome in the proceedings. A credit to her company and her profession.

Client testimonial Family Law

During what was without doubt the most difficult time of my life Gweni and her team provided a first class service in every aspect. Her knowledge, professionalism, advice and tenacity to stand up to the other sides demands was exemplary.

Client testimonial Family Law

Victoria is a real force of nature and is regarded as a powerhouse in the financial remedy world.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

Sally is excellent: she manages clients’ expectations and gives very good advice. She is also pragmatic with a keen eye on managing costs for the clients.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

I would highly recommend Richard Scott. He is professional, approachable and always seeks to achieve the best outcome for his clients.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

James was a really good communicator and we gelled well from the start. I found him really sympathetic to my situation.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

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