Divorce Lawyer in Abuja

It depends on whether the petition is defended and on the court's calendar. A decree nisi usually becomes absolute three months after it is made, so even an undefended divorce takes some months. Defended divorces can take much longer.

Nigerian courts consider various factors including the contributions of each spouse, the welfare of any children, and the circumstances of the marriage. We advise on likely outcomes and negotiation strategy.

Yes. Nigerian courts can make custody, access, and maintenance orders in the best interests of the child. We guide you through the process sensitively and professionally.

For a statutory marriage (one at a marriage registry or a licensed place of worship), divorce is sought by filing a petition at the High Court of a state or the FCT under the Matrimonial Causes Act. The only ground is that the marriage has broken down irretrievably, shown by facts such as adultery, behaviour the petitioner cannot reasonably be expected to live with, desertion, or living apart for a set period. A petition generally cannot be filed within two years of the marriage without the court's permission. Customary and Islamic marriages are dissolved under their own rules, often in customary, area or Sharia courts.

The court's main concern is the welfare and best interests of the child. It looks at matters such as the child's age, who has been caring for the child, each parent's circumstances and, where suitable, the child's wishes. Custody can be given to one parent with access for the other, and the court can also order maintenance.

When a person dies without a will, a family member applies to the probate registry of the High Court in the state, or the FCT, where the person lived. The registry usually asks for the death certificate, details of the estate, sworn statements from the applicants and sureties, and the fees set by the court. Once granted, the letters allow the administrators to collect and share the estate under the law. Where there is a will, the executors apply for probate instead.

You swear a change of name affidavit before a commissioner for oaths at a court registry, then publish the change in a national newspaper. Some bodies also ask for publication in the Federal Government Official Gazette. Keep copies of the affidavit and the publications for your bank, passport and other records.

Yes. Our estate planning page explains how to write a will in Nigeria, and we can draft your will and guide you through signing it properly so it is valid.