We handle divorce and separation, maintenance and custody, protection under the Domestic Violence Act, and the full range of succession work: wills, probate, letters of administration, succession certificates and partition among heirs.
What we handle
- Divorce by mutual consent and contested divorce under Hindu, Muslim, Christian and Special Marriage law
- Maintenance and alimony, interim and permanent
- Child custody, visitation and guardianship
- Protection orders and residence orders under the Domestic Violence Act
- Drafting and registration of wills
- Probate and letters of administration before the Calcutta High Court and District Courts
- Succession certificates, heirship and partition of inherited property
Common questions
How long does a mutual consent divorce take in Kolkata?
The law provides for a first motion, a waiting period of six months, and then a second motion when the decree is passed. The Supreme Court has held that the six month period can be waived in suitable cases, so where both parties have genuinely settled everything the matter can be concluded considerably faster. The actual time depends on the court's board and how complete your paperwork is.
Is probate compulsory for a will in Kolkata?
For a will made by a Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh or Jain, probate is required where the will was made or the property is situated within the ordinary original civil jurisdiction of the Calcutta High Court, which covers the city of Kolkata. For property outside that limit the position differs. Where probate is needed, banks, registrars and housing societies will insist on it before transferring assets.
What is the difference between a succession certificate and letters of administration?
A succession certificate covers debts and securities such as bank deposits, shares and provident fund, and is granted by the District Judge. Letters of administration are granted where there is no will, or the will names no executor, and they cover the whole estate including immovable property. Which one you need depends on what assets are involved.