Filing a divorce petition under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, involves specific steps and legal requirements. Here's a detailed guide: 1. Eligibility: Marriage Duration: The couple must have been married for at least one year before filing for divorce. However, in exceptional cases, the court may allow filing before the completion of one year. Grounds for Divorce: Under the Special Marriage Act, divorce can be sought on various grounds, such as: Adultery. Desertion for a continuous period of not less than two years. Mental disorder or incurable insanity. Cruelty (physical or mental). Conversion to another religion. Incurable disease. Presumption of death (if a person has not been heard of for seven years). 2. Types of Divorce Petitions: Divorce by Mutual Consent: Both parties agree to dissolve the marriage amicably. Contested Divorce: One spouse files for divorce on specific grounds, and the other contests it. 3. Procedure for Filing a Divorce Petition: A. Divorce by Mutual Consent: Joint Petition: The spouses jointly file a petition for divorce under Section 28 of the Special Marriage Act in the family court where: The marriage was solemnized, or The couple last resided together, or The wife is residing at the time of filing. First Motion: Both parties appear before the court and submit their statements, expressing mutual consent to dissolve the marriage. Cooling-Off Period: After the first motion, the court grants a cooling-off period of six months to reconsider the decision. The petition can be withdrawn during this period. The cooling-off period can be waived by the court in exceptional cases. Second Motion: After the cooling-off period, both parties must again appear before the court for the second motion. The court will verify that mutual consent still exists and that there has been no coercion. Decree of Divorce: If satisfied, the court will grant a decree of divorce, officially dissolving the marriage. B. Contested Divorce: Drafting the Petition: The petitioner (spouse seeking divorce) must draft a divorce petition with the help of a lawyer, stating the grounds for divorce. Filing the Petition: The petition is filed in the family court with jurisdiction over the case. Service of Notice: The court issues a notice to the other spouse (respondent) to appear in court and respond to the petition. Response from the Respondent: The respondent files a reply to the petition, either contesting or agreeing to the divorce. Evidence and Hearings: Both parties present evidence, witnesses, and arguments to support their case. The court may attempt reconciliation or mediation at this stage. Final Hearing: The court hears the final arguments and examines all evidence. Decree of Divorce: If the court is convinced that the grounds for divorce are valid, it grants a decree of divorce, thereby dissolving the marriage. 4. Documents Required: Marriage Certificate. Address Proof: of both spouses. Photographs: Marriage photographs and individual photographs of both parties. Proof of Separation: If applicable, such as a separation agreement or proof of living separately. Income Tax Returns: and salary slips, if applicable. Details of Children: If any, including their custody arrangements. Evidence Supporting Grounds: for divorce (if contested). 5. Time Frame: Mutual Consent Divorce: Typically takes 6 months to 1 year, depending on the cooling-off period. Contested Divorce: May take several years, depending on the complexity of the case and court proceedings. 6. Legal Fees: The cost of filing a divorce petition varies and includes court fees and lawyer fees. The fees depend on the complexity of the case and the lawyer's charges. Filing for divorce under the Special Marriage Act is a legal process that requires careful consideration of the grounds and adherence to legal procedures. It's advisable to consult a family lawyer to ensure that the process is handled correctly.