Q: What are the steps to getting a divorce in Trinidad and Tobago?
A: The law under the Matrimonial Proceedings and Property Act Chap 45:51.
Section 5(1) - a divorce petition cannot be presented until one year of marriage has passed, unless there are extreme circumstances.
Section 3 - the marriage must be at a stage where reconciliation is impossible.
Section 4(1) - The person initiating the divorce must prove:
(a) that the respondent has committed adultery and the petitioner finds it intolerable to live with the respondent;
(b) that the respondent has behaved in such a way that the petitioner cannot reasonably be expected to live with the respondent;
(c) that the respondent has deserted the petitioner for a continuous period of at least two years immediately preceding the presentation of the petition;
(d) that the parties to the marriage have lived apart for a continuous period of at least two years immediately preceding the presentation of the petition and the respondent consents to a decree being granted;
(e) that the parties to the marriage have lived apart for a continuous period of at least five years immediately preceding the presentation of the petition.
Section 4(2) - Empowers the court to investigate
Section 24(1) - A spouse may be entitled to maintenance especially when the other decides to leave his/her partner in a position that may impose a burden on society (benefits, etc.) i.e., disability or children. Most recent case at the time of posting: Ann-Marie Ramdhan v Peter Ramcharan, delivered on 22/06/2010.
If one spouse is overseas, Sections 62 - 62H lays down the law in that regard.
The procedure:
Contact one of the following to get a form:
Registration House
72-74 South Quay
Port of Spain
(868) 624-1660
32 Pro Queen Street
Arima
(868) 667-1700
Scarborough
Tobago
(868) 639-3210
Note: In order to facilitate and respect the beliefs of other religions, there are separate laws governing Muslim and Hindu marriages and divorces in Trinidad and Tobago, which are:
-Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, Chap. 45:02
-Hindu Marriage Act, Chap. 45:03
A: The law under the Matrimonial Proceedings and Property Act Chap 45:51.
Section 5(1) - a divorce petition cannot be presented until one year of marriage has passed, unless there are extreme circumstances.
Section 3 - the marriage must be at a stage where reconciliation is impossible.
Section 4(1) - The person initiating the divorce must prove:
(a) that the respondent has committed adultery and the petitioner finds it intolerable to live with the respondent;
(b) that the respondent has behaved in such a way that the petitioner cannot reasonably be expected to live with the respondent;
(c) that the respondent has deserted the petitioner for a continuous period of at least two years immediately preceding the presentation of the petition;
(d) that the parties to the marriage have lived apart for a continuous period of at least two years immediately preceding the presentation of the petition and the respondent consents to a decree being granted;
(e) that the parties to the marriage have lived apart for a continuous period of at least five years immediately preceding the presentation of the petition.
Section 4(2) - Empowers the court to investigate
Section 24(1) - A spouse may be entitled to maintenance especially when the other decides to leave his/her partner in a position that may impose a burden on society (benefits, etc.) i.e., disability or children. Most recent case at the time of posting: Ann-Marie Ramdhan v Peter Ramcharan, delivered on 22/06/2010.
If one spouse is overseas, Sections 62 - 62H lays down the law in that regard.
The procedure:
Contact one of the following to get a form:
Registration House
72-74 South Quay
Port of Spain
(868) 624-1660
32 Pro Queen Street
Arima
(868) 667-1700
Scarborough
Tobago
(868) 639-3210
Note: In order to facilitate and respect the beliefs of other religions, there are separate laws governing Muslim and Hindu marriages and divorces in Trinidad and Tobago, which are:
-Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, Chap. 45:02
-Hindu Marriage Act, Chap. 45:03
Can you tell me where I can get further information on this. Where did you get the actual case from re Ann Marie Ramdhan vs Peter Ramcharan.
ReplyDeleteSection 24(1) - A spouse may be entitled to maintenance especially when the other decides to leave his/her partner in a position that may impose a burden on society (benefits, etc.) i.e., disability or children. Most recent case at the time of posting: Ann-Marie Ramdhan v Peter Ramcharan, delivered on 22/06/2010.
Hi, the case is listed here, but you'll have to contact the court for the full text.
ReplyDeletehttp://webopac.ttlawcourts.org/LibraryJud/judg_recd/2010judr/lib_judg_recd_1006.htm
Good Luck
HI, is there any assurance for a father to retain custody of a child, if the mother had left the home and then decided to take her away 10 months later...
ReplyDeleteThe question is, why did you let her take the child away?
ReplyDeleteYou can apply for custody under Section 13 of the Family Law (Guardianship of Minors Domicile and Maintenance Act 1981 - Chapter 46:08, but there is no guarantee of sole custody unless you can prove that the mother is unfit (i.e., drugs, abuse or convictions).
The court's decision will be based solely on the best interest of the child, which means that the mother would not have a pre-emptive custody right, neither would you.
Many women seem to think that they have an automatic custody right because they suffered most during pregnancy and that a mother is the best at nurturing, but if you seek proper legal advice, you can be successful and come out of this with at least joint custody.
I worked with an excellent family law Attorney in Port-of-Spain, so if you need her contact details, let me know.
Question:
ReplyDelete1. If my husband and I have been separated for almost two years due mainly for financial reasons do I have to state this when I file a petition for divorce or is the separation time period sufficient enough.
2. Since I want the divorce what kind of legal fees are attached to such.
3. If children are involved does that automatically mean there will be discussions about custody?
Hey,I am a non-national married to a trindadian and would like to know if we have absolutely anything to settele how long the process usually takes?
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteI have read your question many times, but I still don't understand what you're asking.
Sorry what i meant is if non-nationals married to trinidadians take longer for the divorce process compared to trinis married to trinis.
ReplyDeleteNo. The only thing is that one of you must be in Trinidad at the time.
ReplyDeletehi ;
ReplyDeletedo you need a legal separation to get a divorce in trinadad? if so how long do you have to be separated?
what ;happens if the other party does not want a divorce?
All your questions are answered in this post. If one person doesn't want a divorce and you can prove that the marriage has been irretrievably broken, not signing the papers will delay the inevitable because the court will grant it anyway.
DeleteMy husband is a us citizen.we have been married for a year now and i want a divorce.the long distance and loveless relationship are to much for me.how do i go about getting a divorce and what do i do if he dont want to sign.
Deletei have been in a on/off relationship with a guy for 6 yrs. presently i am living by him...what are my rights in this relationship?
ReplyDeleteIs it correct for me to assume that you're not married? Do you pay any bills or contribute to the running of the household? Do you have nay children together?
ReplyDeletehi, i do have several concerns concerning divorce. A family member of mine is presently through a divorce and a child is involved. The mother has abandon the child since she was 4 yrs old, to seek residence with another partner.The child will now be 8yrs old in a month;s time. The mother pays visits once a month or so at one of her family's residents where the child and her will meet. The child was given a cellular phone to communicate with the mother. However, seeing that this child is at a tender age and the divorce is in progress, should that child have a phone of her own? I am very skeptical about this becasue when the mother do visits the child becomes really emotional after. Could u please assist me in what should be done.
ReplyDeleteThis is not a legal question... it's a personal issue. I am not Dr. Phill.
DeleteI married a Jamaican woman two months ago and it was a marriage of convenience. I would like to get a divorce. Would she be entitled to any of my estate or alimony? How do I proceed with this?
ReplyDeleteI clearly said a divorce cannot be done until after a year. Why are you still asking this question?
DeleteHi I'm a Trinidadian married to a UK citizen, we will be married for a year on April 9th this year, and we got a civil union in Tobago in order for him to stay in the country and for us to start building our lives together. We have no kids, and I've been supporting us for most of the year. He is now sceptical about making the relationship work and has asked me for a 'break'. I want to prepare myself for the end just in case and I need to know what I would need to do in this case. We also paid a bond of TT$7,000 for him to apply for his residency status and work permit.
ReplyDeleteIf we don't stay together I obviously don't want him to capitalise on being able to stay in the country because of a marriage he didn't try to make work.
Would he be able to stay? And how do I cancel the residency application?
I have been married for over 14yrs.we are having problems what I want to find out is does my husband have the right to put me out of our home?
ReplyDeleteThere are no infidelity on both side we just can't agree on anything.
Hi...on what grounds can the father obtain custody? Also, can the Muslim Divorce Act be enforced if one partner no longer practises that faith?
ReplyDeleteHi
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I have been married for about five years. we never lived with each other for a complete year. It was an on and off thing,he would be the one to leave. I am going to file for a divorce, we are both gainfully employed would i be entitled to financial support from him
Why would you want support if you're "gainfully employed"?
DeleteTo answer your question, no. No Magistrate in his/her right mind would make that order.
My husband and are I both employed and I am about to start proceedings for a divorce. Well he have to pay spousal support.
ReplyDeleteI was married for five years, and my husband and I have been having problems for two. I am away at school finishing my degree, and now he has decided he wants a divorce. I am a student and we have no kids together and lived at my childhood home. Would I be able to get alimony?
ReplyDeleteI'd prefer the personal questions be sent to my email, so do that and I'll respond.
ReplyDeleteNo, a spouse cannot legally evict the other because it is regarded as a marital asset even if one person "owns" it.
ReplyDeletemy husband and i were married for about a year and a half...we've been separated for about five years...do you have any idea how much it's gonna cost for me to divorce him??
ReplyDeletehow to start divorce proceedings..do i need a deeed of seperation first ?
ReplyDeleteI have been married to my husband for almost 7 years. Can a divorce be obtained/ granted due to medical conditions. Also the house we live in is owned by his mother but her Will states the her 3 children are benificeries of the property, as far as I'm concern we don't have any marital assets beside our 2 children. Would this be a fast and easy process? Can a divorce be obtained due to irreconcilable differences? would there be need to prove anything?
ReplyDeleteHI i was married for 17yrs, but i left my martial home because of the abuse,it is now 5yrs since,and my husband is filing for divorce can i sue for alimony,also we have girls ages 21 22
ReplyDeleteMedical reasons aren't grounds for a divorce.
ReplyDeleteAs long as you agree on getting divorced, there won't be any problems.
Grounds for divorce:
Unreasonable behaviour
Adultery
Separation
Desertion
hi my divorce date is coming up soon can you advise me on the proceedure/questions that would be asked on that day wheather by the magistrate or lawyer,i would really like to be prepared.
ReplyDeleteHi I am wondering can a muslim man who has changed his christian name to a muslim one be married under muslim laws to four women,then decide to marry a 5th person using his christian name or not and under normal marriage act? therefore get married for the 5th time?!!!
ReplyDeleteI have just come across your website and I have found it most helpful. However, I have a question. My husband and I are looking to get divorced, its not being contested by either of us. In the interest of time, we would like to state that we have been living apart for two years as the grounds for divorce ie separation. Unfortunately, this is not entirely true but we want to do this rather than wait for this period. What are the ramifications if any for using this as a grounds when it is not technically true?
ReplyDeleteMany people do this without any problems.
Deletehi can you file for a divorce in trinidad if wife lives in the states and i in trinidad we got married in the states she is dual citizen and i am a legal resident
ReplyDeletehi, i have been married for nine months, this was a marriage of convenience, my husband and i have decided to divorce, can this be done and if so on what grounds
ReplyDeleteI clearly said a divorce cannot be done until after a year. Why are you still asking this question?
DeleteAlso, a marriage of convenience is illegal, so be careful how you go around telling people that.
if i have property before my marriage will it be considered Marital Property? I have my house and cars for 5 years and I have been married for 2 years and seperated for 1 year. will the property be devided?
ReplyDeleteAlso, my husband decided to come clean and tell me he was cheating before the marriage is that grounds for divorce? we got seperated initally because i thought he was cheating and we have not been living together since?
your thoughts please.
Hi,
ReplyDeleteI am a Trinidadian male, 28 years of age. I have been married for 8 years this year. I have one daughter she is 3 years and 1 month old. My wife is going to be 31 next month. My marriage has always been rocky. Due to my family and my wife never getting along, I truly loved her and continued all through the marriage to provide all the love and support I could have. She kept lying to me about past loves. But 3 years ago I started to get really suspicious and installed a key logger software on our computer. I have all her conversations that she typed over the 3 year span, mind you this is right after she had our daughter. She kept spending all her time on the pc or laptop chatting with other men, loving other men and never me, I always get the cold shoulder and its becoming unbearable. She keeps saying she hates me, and never loved me and wants to leave. She does not work, she hasn’t for 4 years now and I live with my parents in a separate part of the house with amenities. I love my baby girl totally, and she is the main reason why I haven’t sent my wife packing. What I need to know is if I can have a divorce and keep my child, based on the internet infidelity. Please let me know.
hello,
ReplyDeletehow do i go about getting a divorce re adultery if i am unable to prove it and what defines "unreasonable behavior"?
my husband and i got separated about 9 months ago.He was unfaithful and is currently living with the person .we have a daughter i want to apply for a divorce what can i claim for.
ReplyDeleteI cannot tell you what to claim for unless I know much more details, such as, who works, salary amounts, age of child, length of marriage, etc.
DeleteBut I do not go that in-depth with free guidance. You will need to go to a Lawyer to get comprehensive advice.
If you need one, I can recommended one of the best family Lawyers in Trinbago.
I have been married for 2 months & my husband is verbally abusive!! What are the procedures for getting a divorce?
ReplyDeleteDear readers, instead of leaving comments on here, please send me an e-mail, so I can reply to you directly. I received 20 in the past 2 weeks that I won't publicly reply to because you most likely won't see my responses and they won't be in order (i.e. directly below your question).
ReplyDeletehi;
ReplyDeletehaving married to a Guyanese national in
Guyana for seventy years. Now residing in Trinidad my homeland, do I have to return to Guyana to seek a divorce.
As long as you've been living in Trinidad for a year, you can apply for the divorce in Trinidad, but you must have the person's correct address in Guyana, so that they can be notified.
Deletehave been separated from my husband for 7 years what are legal fees for divorce
ReplyDeletewhat's your email?
ReplyDeletehi, I've been married for the past 17 years, and just found out my husband has another woman, he is putting me out of our rented apartment, i would like to know what are my rights in regard to separation or divorce.....should i be the one to file for it or him, would i be entitled to any financial benefits if i do,...we have no children............(could i get your email address in case i don't see the reply)
ReplyDeleteYour "rights" and "financial benefits" will be dependent on many circumstances, i.e., your employment statuses, property owned together, etc.
DeleteIf you want the divorce, why are you waiting on him to file?
What constitutes unreasonable behaviour?
ReplyDeleteHi, my husband and i have been separated for almost three years. He has someone else and a one year old child with that person. We have three kids together and even though he is always talking about reconciliation, he still wants a divorce. Should i gave him the divorce?
ReplyDeleteThat's not a legal question, that's something for Dr. Phill to deal with.
DeleteTry counselling.
Hi I want to divorce my husband. We've been married for 4years but he has been abusive both physically and emotionally at times. Do I have any rights to our assets seeing that the marriage is under 5 years. Thanks
ReplyDeleteif husband commits adultery and wants to divorce but wife not keen..are there options to proceed with divorce apart from doing a 2 yr separation?
ReplyDeletei am married to a non national and he is cheating i juust what to know what is my fist step to get this devorce i already have al the e-mail to show where he is committe his adultery
ReplyDeletewhats your email
ReplyDeleteI'm trying to get a copy of the Muslim Marriage Act, Chap. 45:02
ReplyDeleteCan you post it please?
i got married to a girl from america after months she left and dont want to come back it has been 3 months now since we got married could i get a divorce what is the circumstances
ReplyDeleteI am an American married to a Trini who was born in the US. She has duel citenzship so we got married 13 yrs ago in Trinidad. What is the process for a legal separation given these circumstances?
ReplyDeleteI have been married for 3yr and my husband was unfaithful. He was caught in the act and now he wants to put me out of the house because he acquired it before he met me. we have a child together. Could he do that?
ReplyDeleteIs it his house? I need more information. E-mail me.
DeleteHello I have been married for two years and my husband has filed for divorce. Are there any legal rights a wife can have towards her spouse's mistress?
ReplyDeleteHello, I married under the musilm marriage act and I really don't want to go the route of the High Court but there is a child involved. My husband is no longer interested in the marriage or our child. Is it best to go to the Musilm Board to finalize the matter. Our child is only 3months old and I want this over quickly. WHat do you recommend.
ReplyDeleteIs it better to try mediation before filing or is it manadorty that we must mediate after a divorce petition?
ReplyDeletewhat is your email address
ReplyDeleteI hve been seperated from my husband of three yrs for the past 6 mths and even before that on going. I would like to get a divorce, what are my options. I know he has been on faithfully on numerous occasions and even can produce names.
ReplyDeletehi i was married on the 23rd of july this year but my husband is verbally abusive and takes no interest in trying to fix it so do i do i still have to wait 1 year to divorce him?
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteI am a single mother and my son is two years and nine months old. His father pays $300 in the bank every week for him. He doesn't really make an effort to visit or call him. I want to apply for sole custody of my son what do i need to do. Also i want his father to have limited visitation of him. Reason being that the last time he spent the weekend he came home with a swollen finger. Nobody said how it happened. His father just dropped him off and left. He never called for a month. What can i do?
been married 15 years 3 kids 15,13,10 husband committed adult try for the 3rd time how do i start.he is still at home.does have to out of the home to start divorce proceeding?
ReplyDeletehi good day,
ReplyDeletei have recently been granted a decree absolute,
i have full custody of the children. i have two months to pay off my ex-husband a substantial amount and one month grace. what would happen if i dont pay him in the stipulated time and how much is statutory interest
Hi...
ReplyDeleteI have been married for eight years.But is now separated for the last 5 days.
When do I file for divorce?
What am I entitled to? considering that I paid half of everything in the house, bills groceries etc.The house is on my spouse's parents land. I have no bills to prove anything
Presently my spouse owes me $11000.
What rights do I have?
I have been married for three years and my husband fell in love with someone else (married and having a child) . He indicated that he is not happy in this marriage and I do not meet his emotional needs hence he wants a divorce. However he wants me to leave the marital home (downpayment financed by me) but loan is on his name. He wants to pay me off without going court. Any advice?
ReplyDeleteHi, I have been married for the last yr and half. My husband doesn't talk to me, leave early in the morning and come back at night from work. The only relationship we share is one of constant arguing. We have a 6 month old child and he is the bread winner so I guess its his reason to talk to me how he want to and treats me without respect and appreciation. He have been liaising with his ex and have other women call him, tell me he can talk to who he want and go out with who he wants, thats none of my business. I can't continue to 'serve' someone who doesn't stand for any morales and values. What can you best advise in a situation like this. I have asked him for us to get counseling and he disapproved. I was thinking of a divorce but he doesn't want to give me one. How can I live with someone who make me cry everyday. I was once treated for depression and I feel like I'm going back to that state. I have lost all control of my emotions , feelings, actions when he aggravates me with his lies. What should I do?
ReplyDeletehi i have been divorced for the pass two years or so,we have dual custody of our daughter in which i will see her every other weekend, my question is, does my ex wife has any rights to come to my home uninvited or unannounced?
ReplyDeletemy ex-wife and i are divorce.we both share a child which i support(maintenance).but is she still entitled to the property(squatting land)even after the divorce one year ago
ReplyDeleteCan you please send me information on unreasonable behavior,examples of..
ReplyDeleteHi, am married for 5years, and my husband have left me 2years now. He calms his reason for leaving we are not compartable and we always verbally fight. We have a 3year old daughter and he wants a divorce. But what happens if i ,do not want a divorce. What can i do? Is there still any grounds that the court can grand the divorce even if i do not want to divorce my husband.
ReplyDeleteMy husband packed his thins and left me with threee kids and a rent of $2000.00 to pay. can he legally do this. he was/is the higher income earner
ReplyDeleteWhat are the criteria for an annulment under Trinidad and Tobago law?
ReplyDeleteHi I married a guy from Trinidad we had one child together he ran off and left me for an under age girl and got a baby by her as well I filed for a divorce in 2007 after he got deported back to Trinidad how can I get a divorce from him when he's over there and I'm from the us?
ReplyDeleteif a person does not want a divorce can they get a legal separation in Trinidad and Tobago
ReplyDeletehi i am single and looking to marry a phillpehno, but the court not granting her divorce what can i do
ReplyDeleteI have been married for the past 14yrs but i haven't seen my husband in ten years, because I live over seas and he lives in Trinidad,however he is seeing someone else I want to get a divorce from the states but I don't know how to do it? or how long it would take.
ReplyDeleteUnder Section 15 of the MATRIMONIAL PROCEEDINGS
ReplyDeleteAND PROPERTY ACT, a couple can get a Judicial (legal) Separation in Trinidad and Tobago.
My wife filed for devorce, i dont know when but we have been separated for 1 year. She is the the one that had infidelity(got pregnant for another guy while we were still together trying to make it work)I only got informed of it today,because the family court called me today.They told me i have a matter on wednesday which is 6 days away.What are my options here?
ReplyDeleteWhat options do you want?
ReplyDeleteYou have a court date, so attend. Don't you want to get a divorce?
if a fireman and a teacher are married with two kids,and a divorce occurs, does he(the fireman)have to pay her spousal support.......they are both permanently employed?????????
ReplyDeleteSpousal support... not likely.
ReplyDeleteChild support... definitely.
Hello I am divorce person living in Trinindad I am presently going through my property settlemet. I was married for 12 years in that period we accomplised assest such as land house and bank accounts. We both we employed. I spouse applied for divorce on the ground of behaviou but in reality he committed adultery. I presently live in the matrimonal house with my two children age 11 and 12. The valuator value the property for 1.6m. I do not have the money to pay for his share is there any way i can continue to live in this house. Thanks for your response.
ReplyDeleteMy parents are seperated an not divorced,my mom lives with someone else is this problem or is it ok? Does she have to be divorced I would really like to know please.
ReplyDeleteLiving with someone else while married isn't legally wrong... that's a moral issue.
ReplyDeleteHi. last year June my husband packed my things and those of our child and put us out of our house. this is the 4th time he has done this since we were married nine years ago. our child was 3yrs old the first time he did it. I am not forgiving him anymore. i want a divorce. what are my options?
ReplyDeleteAs long as you can prove one of the reasons in section 4(1), you can go tothe Court and apply for a divorce. You will also have to deal with custody/contact with the father.
ReplyDeleteI was ill for an extended period and retrenched from my job. I was unemployed for over a year and during that time my wife continued to spend and live above our means sending debt through the roof. All the debt is in my name and the assets are in both of our names. She is now permanently employed and the main earner whereas I get short term contracts when I can. My current earnings are 1/3 of my previous and half hers but she insists on living in the standard to which she has become accustomed and is placing a burden on me financially and physically. The marriage has broken down totally. Can this be considered unreasonable behaviour and grounds for divorce? (we have been separated for almost 1 year)and would I have to pay spousal support or can I claim support rather ? I will always provide for the children but fear for their future with her overly social spending habits.
ReplyDeleteUnreasonable behaviour has to be within the last 6 months, otherwise it is seen as acceptance of the behaviour.
ReplyDeleteYou can't pay spousal support if she makes more than you, but you will have to pay child maintainance.
You receiving spousal support will be based on much more information that is here. Your Lawyer will be able to better advise you.
Hi,I am filing for divorce. My husband and i have been seperated for the past two years.We are seperated for several reasons: first of all, he is living a life that is unacceptable to me,that is liming with his ex-girlfriends and other girls. He wants me to accept him drinking with them and also wants me accept everything he wants to do. There is no compromise with him. This is like the third time he did something like this, liming with oter girls and his ex-girlfriend and i am fed up of this treatment.What he want sfor his life and what i want for my life is totally different. I am more settled and he likes more of a wild life. He saids he is not unfaithful but i don't believe him because he told me he was even trying too like other girls when we split. I don't want the relationship or marriage. I am presently living with another person for nearly a year and i am happy. I want out of the marriage. What advice do you have for me? if i am to do the divorce privately by just signing the divorce pappers or hiring a lawyer to do the divorce for me, then how much do i have to pay and how long it will take to finalise the divorce. I don't want to go through the divorce court system.
ReplyDeleteAs long as both of you agree, the process will be simple and fast, i.e., no more than 3 months.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure I understand you completely, but there is no "private divorce", without the "divorce court system" because only the court can grant a divorce.
i have been married for the past 5yrs and 6mths and for the last 3 yrs my husband has been verbally and physically abusive. i want a divorce but i'm currently unemployed and trying to finish my degree. he constantly puts me out and disgraces me when we're out in public i just can't take his abusive treatment anymore. as i am unemployed am i entitled to spousal support and how can i proceed with the divorce
ReplyDeleteSpousal support takes into consideration a lot of things, but usually if one spouse isn't working, they would usually get spousal support from the other.
ReplyDeleteGo to family court and fill out the divorce petition.
since being put out by my husband it has been almost 9 months. he was not giving any money for child support and when i told him about this he became verbally abusive and said that i am supposed to 'pick up the slack' for him cause he had no money. is this true? he now pays a minimal amount to my relative for our child and she signs a receipt. i would really feel more at peace to get divorced from this man as i have no doubt that the money goes towards his maintaining another woman. i have been told that if i am the one to file for the divorce first i would lose out because he would be given the right to ask for anything i have even though i am left without a home for my child and myself. is this true? i would really like some informed guidance.
ReplyDeleteHi I have been divorced for three years last november and its been 14 months now that I havent received any child support for the two children of the marriage, also my exhusband does not meet his committments with regards to their educational supplies and needs, the transportation arrangement as stated. The biggest challenge is that he has stopped paying their school fees and was put out of school. I recently got them enrolled in public school and the younger child of 6 years is having a very difficult time adjusting to the change. I am strapped for cash to go back to my lawyer as I have been to the court and Ive been told that an application must be made by my lawyer. Im very stressed as I am having a hard time keeping food on the table and taking care of my kids as it is already. He is still permanently employed and is claiming that he is no longer in a position to pay his commitments as stated within the court order as he went a incurred unreasonable debts/liabilities such as excessive loans and hirepurchase agreements and expensive vacation for his girlfriend and her kids. What are my options here as I do not have the finances to proceed and ensuring my kids maintenance. You can email me at natalie_marhong@hotmail.com if need be
ReplyDeleteDoes the man work? Does the wife work? Who earns more? Who owns the property where they live?
ReplyDeleteI have been separated from my husband for 8mths (married for almost two years), was pregnant at the time (4mths)I left because firstly he is a non trinidadian and he seem to only wanted the marriage as to obtain residency as I didnt go with him he said that he was going to sell everything in the house and go back to his country so i return home to my parents. i am gainfully employed, however he is not. can i file for divorce
ReplyDeletePlus will through pregnancy and now (baby is almost three months now) he voice that he doesnt want a relationship with me nor have he made an attempt to support the baby.
Of course you can file for divorce and at the same time apply for Court-ordered child support.
DeleteI am the third party in this situation. A friend of mine (trini) got married to a canadian in Trinidad and they have a child together. She went back to live in Canada with the child and he has been paying every month wihtout fail to support the child. They want a divorce, so i would like to know how much it would cost to have the divorce done in Trinidad? And if he would have to continue paying (TT$15000 per mth) or that may increase or decrease? Thank you.
ReplyDeleteIf you choose not to use a Lawyer and he is not contesting custody, the most you will have to pay is the divorce application fee, which is no more than TT$500.
DeleteIf he stops paying child support, the mother will have to ask the Court to make the order. It really depends on their relationship and the man's commitment to taking care of his child.
i have recently been divorced, and denied joint costody of my five year old daughter.I waz given alternate weekends for my daughter to spend with me, however the mother of my daughter refuses to allow that to happen n she has now poisoned my childs mind against me so everytime i go to receive her, she kicks up a tantrum indicating she does want to leave her mother home alone, she have to look at her mother befor she answers a question and i believe she is living in fear of the mother. however when i visit her at home is the most loving child towards her dad, in addition i fullfill all of her needs. I really need some answers on how to deal with this situation
ReplyDeleteIf the visitation is court ordered and the mother refuses to comply, it is constructive contempt of a court order.
ReplyDeleteAs a result, she can be fined, jailed, or given community service. Go to Family Court and immediately inform them of the mother's decision to blatantly disregard the court order.
If there is a marriage of 15 yrs, the woman continuously commits adultery so much so that she moved in with her boyfriend, she gave up her job so that she can claim spousal support, and does not want the divorce. Is she entitled to spousal support? If her husband is self employed is she entitled to half of is business? There are no children involved. What does the court decide in such a case?
ReplyDeleteSpousal support is paid when one spouse gives up his/her job to take care of the family (children) while the other works and supports them.
DeleteHowever, if you're saying that this person gave up a job for no reason, which does not benefit the family, it is highly unlikely that spousal support will be granted!
Hi. I've been married for 7 1/2 years and living with my husband, two kids, and in laws (mother, father and 1 adult child).
ReplyDeleteMy husband brought the land prior to us committing to a relationship. Because of his age (25yrs) he saw it fit to add his mother's name which is presently on the land-deed. The house was later built and completed during our marriage.
We both work and at present I'm earning two times his salary.
I'm overwhelmed by his family.We often have arguments with his family in the house that can be more verbally abusive than physical. He keeps repeating and reminding me in there presence that he does not want me around and I need to leave.
At present I'm not interested in seeing a divorce but separation.
Do I have any rights to that house? Should I leave with my kids? Would he have to provide any financial support like a displacement monthly allowance or would he just need to maintain his kids? What will the court decide in this case?
Of course you have rights! You're his wife, so half of everything is yours. And seeing that you earn more, I am assuming that you contributed more to the household and the building of the house.
DeleteLeaving with your children is a personal decision, not a legal one.
If you get divorced, he would have to pay child support, but not alimony, since you earn more.
Each case is different and each Magistrate is different... there is no formula for court decisions in family matters.
i am married one yr and five months now and i want a divorce he is a non national and i am trini. what r my options here as we have been going to immigration for a residence process for him?
ReplyDeleteThat's a personal choice. If the divorce is finalised before he gets residency, he can be deported.
Deletehi i am currently married to an american citizen for the last 11 years we have a son who is also an american citizen my son and i have been living here for the last 9 years in trinidad he dse not support my son or myself can you tell me wat r my steps for filing a divorce and being awarded full custody of my son
ReplyDeleteWhere were you married?
DeleteI have been married for the past thirty years. My husband moved in with me prior to being marriage. He is now telling me that I have to go and that the house is his. we have two children 15, and 21
ReplyDeleteWhose name is the house in?
DeleteHi, I am currently going through a divorce and i am not sure that my lawyer is acting in my best interests. My husband and i separated when our children were five months old, they are now four and he hasnt paid a dime in child support or assisted in any way financially. our first court date was in Dec 2011 and my lawyer did not turn up as she was out of the country, the matter was adjourned to February.During the February hearing the matter of custody and maintenance was set for may, the judge recommended mediation which my lawyer agreed to in the court but which i decided to turn down because of the belligerent attitude of my spouse while we were outside waiting for the appointment, i do not wish to go through any more emotional abuse.Im May my husband appeared in court without a lawyer and without having filed any documents, MY lawyer agreed with the judge for my husband to get another chance to get a lawyer so that he could articulate his position. the matter is now adjourned to the end of the year, i am frustrated that the judge who is well informed that i get no maintenance from my spouse is allowing me and my children to suffer for such a lengthy period of time with the justification that its in ''their best interest''i am sure that my husband does not ever intend to get a lawyer cause he told me he thinks its ''impossible''and yes...he has a job
ReplyDeleteYou need a better Lawyer to help you get a refund and get your matter resolved much faster than this because it is currently not in the best interest of the child.
DeleteThe House belonged to my parents who gave it to me.
ReplyDeleteHe can't put you out of a house that belongs to you... OBVIOUSLY!
DeleteSince my first child i have been at home working only accasionally. It was not easy but my husband and i thought it was best for the children. He works as well as we have two maxi taxi and another house divided into two apartments. whenever I ask my husband for money he refused me and there is a lot of quarrel. Am I entittled to money and if so how much I have a 14yr old daughter.
ReplyDeleteIn your situation, if you divorce your husband, the Magistrate will order that you receive child support and maintenance (alimony).
DeleteWhat are the laws with regards to the sharing of property in a divorce. we have two houses one of them belongs to me the other we bought during the marriage.
ReplyDeleteNo laws; the Court decides that once it's raised in the divorce proceedings.
Deletehi been married i want a divorce i separted for eight month now he is a guyannise i relizise he married for his papper how fast i can get a divorce plzs
ReplyDeletePlease do not ask questions that have been answered in the article.
DeleteHi
ReplyDeleteWe have agreed to separate.What is my position financially and should I obtain legal advice at this time?We have been married for over 30years now and I left my job two years ago after working for 35 years to be a housewife.My husband is having a extramartial affair.
hi , my husband and i have been living together for the past eight years. we have been married for three years. i want a divorce. i have also gone ahead and found someone else.My husband and i still live together but its stressful. in a stituatuion like this, can he evict me from a house that is in both our names? and if we do get divorce, what can i claim for?
ReplyDeleteHe found someone else and you still live with him? Ok...
DeleteYou cannot get evicted from a house that is half yours. If you get a divorce, the courts will give you half of the assets acquired during the marriage.
I am a housewife with one child. Am i entittled to any money from my husband salary and if so how much. we have been married for ten years
ReplyDeleteYes, you are entitled to alimony and child support. The amount is up to Magistrate's evaluation of the situation and your husband's salary.
DeleteGood Evening,
ReplyDeleteI am at the end of my rope, please tell me what I can do?
16yrs ago I got married for the wrong reason, I felt it was love but, it turned out to be obsession on his path, needless to say, we have 2children, I hav e left him for over 8yrs, when I decided to leave it was because I had enough of the abuse. At the time I did not know where I was going or where I would end up, so I decided to leave the children with him and his parents. The informal arrangement was that I can come and see, stay, or have the boys anytime. But, a few weeks after I left I was presented with a type written document instructing me to give up my rights to the children, which I nevr did. Since, that it has been HELL to be able to see or spend any time with them without the interfarence of the grandparents.They always plan a family lime, whenever, am due to visist them or them me. Even when I would spend the weekend there, they would take the children and go out. I had no say. So, I stop staying over and started bringing my boys to my home, but, the grandparents continued to make that hell for me too. So in 2010 I went to family court and applied for Access to the boys, which was granted, mean while the grandparents encouraged the father to take me to court for custody and maintenance of the children because they felt that I should be doing more,never mind I was paying half school fees, books, shoes..... The matter went on for weeks, and then the court dismissed the matter because the father could not answer simple questions like, what class? name of school who is the teacher?
The weeks and months went by and still hell, to see my boys, its alway a fight because they always present a more fun and better weekend with the grandparents.I have been the parent who is very involved in the children, well as much as the grandmother will allow, since, she has told me she is the primary caregiver of the children, yet when there are bills to concerning the boys am the first person they call, for instance, I will not see they boys for weeks, eveen on mother's days, and yet if the school sends a notice, or they need money for a bill, the grandparents will make it there business to drive 36km to collect, but if I ask them to bring the children they claim, its either too far or they have no gas.
Currently am back at family court, I applied for full custody and maintenance of the boys, mainly because, I am not being allowwed to spend time with the boys and when I do and they return home, I get a number of disturbing text, e-mails and phone calls that the children, are unhappy, and I distress them.....and secondly because, my big sonwho is 15yrs in 3rd form has been missing a great deal of school. for the last shcool year he has less than 50% attendance,and no one in the house is doing anything about, as a matter a fact they are upset when the school calls me to let me know he has not been at school.
I am at the end of my rope, last evening I got an e-mail stating that I was to be in court because, the grandparent continue to tell the children that am trying to take them away, so they want to know what rights the children have, so they both missed school again, I mean which child would not like to live in an enviroment with NO RULES.I was unaware that I was to be in court since, I was not served, and still have not, I checked with the police station and they have not received any documents. I would like to send you the e-mails for you to have a better understanding of the situation am in.
Thanks.
Broken Mom
Your main issue is that you don't have legal representation.
DeleteSome problems can be dealt with just with my guidance, but cases like yours need a Lawyer.
Please e-mail me: navigate to "About me" and then "Ask a question".
I have been married for 12 years and before that living together for 5 years, we have been together for a total of 18years and out of that maybe 1 year was ok, he is both physically and mentally abusive and he has also committed adultery on numerous occasions, one of which led to the birtht of a child prior to marriage. I thought he would change and then we had two children ages 5 and 10, he is never around to be a proper parent and he drinks alot, I was wondering how long will it take for us to get a divorce if we are both willing to get one and does it make a difference who fills out the petition for divorce. Also, we have a joint loan and I took loans for him as he was not in a financial position to obtain one and I am wondering if the court will make him pay 1/2 of the loans. Apart from that there are other things which I prefer not to disclose about him which I just cannot live with. I would appreciate your advice.
ReplyDeleteAny spouse can file for divorce.
DeleteJust like assets, debts are split equally among the spouses, as long as they were entered into TOGETHER DURING the marriage.
i have been married for almost 8 years......my husband left the kids and i a month shy of six years saying he would file for a divorce. He is currently in a relationship with someone else. the home we occupied was his mom..so after he left , i left a couple months later taking the kids. he has still not filed for divorce. he is supposed to be paying maintenance which he doesn't....what are my options? would i be entitled to spousal support.....i work on contract, we have three kids and he is a fire officer? if i file for divorce, what kinda prove must i have to show he has committed adultery?
ReplyDeleteFile for divorce and request that you want the Court to order him to pay alimony and child support. Seeing that he is a Fire Officer, the Courts will definitely order it.
DeleteProving adultery can be anything like a text, e-mail or picture.
hello, my husband and i have been married for 10years during which time we had no children. Since we got married we have been living in his parents home. His father is deceased and before his mother died she included his name on the deed for the property with the belief that because we were married i atomatically would have a share in the property.We are both employed and we have shared all the expensesfor the property.We have since divorced and i have applied for propety settlement, my ex has been telling me that i have no legal right to any property. Can you tall me if i do have any claim.
ReplyDeleteUsually, a spouse's inheritance is separate property because it was a gift to him/her.
DeleteHowever, the exception is if that inheritance was used for the benefit of the marriage. If you both live their together and split the expenses for the property, you do have a right to the property under divorce rules.
I don't understand what you mean by you "applied for property settlement", especially since you said that you have already been divorced. But anyway, good luck.
Hi
ReplyDeleteone of the grounds for divorce is separation for 2 yrs and the respondent's consent to decree, does this mean in laman terms that if they lived apart for 2 yrs one party applies for the divorce but the other party does not want to sign, does this mean that the divorce will not be granted and the petitioner has to wait for another 3 yrs, i was under the assumption that once both parties was separated for 2 yrs that the divorce will be granted wether or not the other party consented or signed.
For the two-year separation, the respondent spouse must agree to the divorce. If not, the applicant must wait another 3 years for the court to grant the divorce regardless of consent. You will also need to prove separation.
DeleteYou can live with your spouse for up to a 6- month period during those years and not interrupt the continuous period of separation.
My wife is a social spendthrift. I want a divorce and am willing to give up the home as she retains custody of the children. I will pay maintenance for my kids but do I have to pay the mortgage still? She is more than capable of maintaining the mortgage solely as I want my name removed from any asset or debt with her. She earns more than I do and is well able to service the mortgage as I am giving up my equity in the property. Please advise as I do not want to give up my equity in the property and still have to pay the mortgage.
ReplyDeletePay the child support and leave her to pay the mortgage. If you take your name off the property you won't have to pay towards the mortgage. You don't have to maintain her, especially since she earns more and is capable of paying the mortgage herself.
Deletei have been married for 10 years an separated for 2 years and my wife file for a divorce she is in a 5 year relationship an wants me to maintain her still 3 kids are involve
ReplyDeleteSpousal maintenance is never granted for an ex who is in another relationship. If your children are under 18, child support will be granted, but you should be taking care of your children anyway, without having the courts force you.
DeleteI was married at age 19, to the man i thought ill love for ever. When my first daughter was 3 years old we had an argument and he hit me for the first time after which it continued regularly, I never reported it, because I loved him but when we got into an argument he will do it again. when we go out he would embarrassed me and drug me( the latter he has admitted to a few months ago). So i stopped going out with him completely. My mom got a job for me 9 years ago and i work for more money than he does. We had out second child after and things didnt change.
ReplyDeleteThe house we lived in was built by his sister. She got married and built another house with her husband. when she left we remained there with his mom. The house was finished and it was leaking there was no lights or water and its on squat land. I took a loan 5 years ago to finish the house I payed back 120,000 $ last payment made in December 2011.
Over the years he never helped pay any thing and the abuse became worst, that same year oh the loan he hit me almost lost my eye i didnt report it but went to our family doctor and took care of the damage to my face. My family found out about it and attacked him they we all taken to in by police but was later released because he didnt press charges but i payed for that with more abuse. I did my Degree and got a better position at my job, more money.
I admit i kissed two guys and i told about it confessed. So he thought from then on i was unfaithful but i never cheated on him not once.
Well his Dad died and soon after his mom also, when his dad died we took a loan to make his house into an apartment.My mom gave us the material for the other apartment with the agreement that we will pay her back. The abuse got worst and i decided to leave I took the kids with me, that was September 2011, my last payment on our house was December 2011.
He never helped me and now my credit is so bad i can no longer get a loan from my bank any time soon.
We had an unofficial agreement that he would gave me the rent money from the tenets in the apartment because i am still paying that loan and it comes out my salary every month. He hasnt been doing the regularly and now its a burden on me because i am now rents myself with my two kids that lives with me. He dont help in any way, ive asked him if the kids can see him, my younger daughter misses him but the older child dosnt want to see him because she grew up seeing the abuse. He said he wasnt ready he still isnt to this day.
Well my problem is, I want a Divorce as soon as i can we dont love each other and its a burden now to me, all the bills are on my name and they are not being payed on time, I found out two weeks ago that the house is registered in my name at the Wardens Office he or his sister doesnt know this.
I want full custody of my girls and I would like my names off the bills, loans and property we have I am will to give up every thing so my girls and i can have a new start, it has become stressful. My credits bad, my money is being put into an apartment I dont benefit from and my girls are doint with out thing because i cant afford it. I just want it to end.
What can I do to get a divorce as soon as possible, please help me.
You need to send me an e-mail. Find it in the "About me" section and I will send you the forms and put you on to an Attorney who is very good with these matters and will help you with the divorce, legal custody and dealing with removing your name from the property.
DeleteMy son is 12 and doesn't want to see his father since his goes and comes as he pleases and doesn't have a frequent connection with him - he may see him every couple mths and call every other mth at best. He owes me $11,000 since he's supposed to pay me $700 a mth but never does yet he's out partying every weekend. At what age can my son decide he does not want to see him any more? He has never paid for my son's school books, uniforms and hasn't pay his school fees in a year far less pay for his medical bills or food. My son's scared he wouldn't come back because his dad tells him this. I allow him to go for a couple hours with him but the most recent thing is he wants to take him out of the country for 4 days while he works. My son is terrified. I told him my son doesn't want to go but he thinks its me forbidding him which isn't the case. He's saying my son can only decide when he's 18. Can you please give me your advice?
ReplyDeleteThe father is right. The son cannot decide until 18
DeleteCan you seek divorce after 3 months of marriage under hindu rights in Trinidad ?I see in the steps above, it should be after 1 year. Is that realistic? I mean if we have irreconciliable differences? Why wait 1 year? I don't need anymore time to make a decision. There must be some way around this.
ReplyDeleteWell if you got into a marriage that failed after 3 months, that's your problem; you should have made a better choice... or your family, if it was arranged.
DeleteThe law is the law.
This is done to make people know that marriage is a serious decision and should not be taken lightly.
Hi,
ReplyDeletei have been separated for about 5yrs now & was told by my ex-husband that he will file for divorce since I live in the USA & he resided in Trinidad. I am currently in a serious relationship & need to know about my divorce since my ex never sent any proof to me of it (very bitter separation so he has not contacted me about it)Please let me know who I should contact for this info?
Ministry of Legal Affairs.
DeleteHow do I go about filing for a divorce from a Colombian citizen the marriage took place in Colombia and we have been living apart except for the occasional visits. Note I am a Trinidadian and she does not want to grant divorce even though our marriage is not working because she does not me to be with anyone else
ReplyDeleteDo you meet the requirements for a divorce?
DeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteI have been married for the past three years now and I have decided to get a divorce. We have a two year old child together and I would like to find out about the entire divorce process. Can you please let me know what I have to do. Thank You!
I've explained too many times to explain again. Please read the blog entry and the comments I've made.
Deleteyes I meet the requirements
ReplyDeleteHi I have been seperated for mor than three years and wish to go away to get married. I there any way to get a divorce granted in under six months
ReplyDeleteAs long as it's not contested, it shouldn't take longer than 6 months.
DeleteHi, my husband is Trinidadian and has been trying to obtain his Divorce decree(certificate) from the company that was handling his case. We have travel issues that we are trying to see to as soon as possible. They seem to be giving him the run-around. Where else can he obtain a copy of his decree? Thank you
ReplyDeleteMy husband died February, 2012. He divided his pension between his estate and the other woman of less than a year with her as his beneficiary during the divorce nisi. Am I entitled to the full pension as the divorce was not final?
ReplyDeletehi good day,
ReplyDeleteMy decre Nisihas been completed,since March of this year, but my lawyer can't seem to gave me the reason why i cann't obtain my absolute. She keeps giving me the run around. When i visited the court they said that she hasn't applied for it.Its Frustrating the matter has been in the court formally for more than 2 years. How do i obtain my final documents?
I have been married for the past 12 years with 2 children my wife is employed and earns approx 800 dollars less than me a month and is eployed on contract with a statutary body for the past 3 years. we share different idealogies and she believes she should not have to work or assist in any bills. I pay all the bills and spend all my money on family upkeep. she still insists that I do not take care of them adequately. an argument ensues when I ask her to help with any expense. we have ireconsilible differnces in financial matters and we have no financial future. Do you think I have grounds for divorce? She is willing to agree to a mutual divorce. Will I be able to get joint custody of my children? will I have to pay spousal support? or just maintenance.
ReplyDeletehow to go about starting the process after being married for two years and separated for month and a half? both parties are national of T&T no children are involved
ReplyDeleteThis is a great and helpful forum. My husband of 13 years and I have mutually agreed on getting a divorce. I left him 1 year and 3 months ago and he currently has a girlfriend. They don't live together though. I would like to get the divorce started. Is the first step filling out the form?
ReplyDelete1. Can I use a downloaded form from the internet, or do I have to collect one in person from legal affairs?
2. Also, is it necessary for me to hire a divorce lawyer, or can i just do the paper work and make the relevant payments for myself?
3. How long might it take to process?
Can someone file for divorce on grounds of infidelity even if it occured 10yrs ago. A child was the product of this infidelity.
ReplyDeleteHi good day, I have been married for the past 16yrs and for the past 6 yrs my wife has been leaving the marital home for periods of time, the last time she left after a year she kept my daughter during a visit and transferred her school and I had no say...The magistrates court allowed us to try to work things out but she left again after a year claiming that I was being unfaithful.Can i file for a divorce? and will I have to wait 2 years to get it, if she contests? I just want to be free from this fiasco.
ReplyDeleteHi. my husband and I have been married for almost a year now. This month would make it a year. I am 20 years old. We have never lived together but we are legally married. However, due to seriously stressful circumstances, we have both come to the conclusion that it is not working out. We have tried countless times but its just not happening. How can i go about filing for a divorce and on what grounds? Futhermore, can i possibly get an estimated cost?
ReplyDeletei have been married since 2007 and separated for almost two years. my wife claims she was unfaithful during the time we were together of which i have no details as to who but i have a time frame. she left the marriage thereafter, what can i enter in my documents as the reason since i have to give details for the reason for the divorce?
ReplyDeleteHello, I would like to get some information on how to go about applying for a divorce please. Is there anyone i can contact via e-mail? the case is a bit complicated...
ReplyDeleteDoes Trinidad and Tobago divorce laws extend to community property outside Trinidad & Tobago. I have been separated for almost 2 years and have been acquiring and saving towards getting another home having left Trinidad to escape a greedy spendthrift wife. I am filing for Divorce having given up my assets in Trinidad and was wondering if what I have saved since the separation will also be included.
ReplyDeleteHI my husband and I have been married for almost five yrs its have been 2 yrs sinceI left and we haven't live together at all since. He has placed me in court and we have since worked out custody arrangements. I now want to finalize my divorce. Above you mentioned that I will have to prove that we haven't lived together, how do I do this? And if he refuses the divorce whats the next step? thanks
ReplyDeleteWhat exactly is Desertion for divorce. I my husband and i have been living together for 8 years and 3 times I took my kids on a vacation to NY for 2 months. He said each year it adds up as me deserting him. If this true. I take them to visit my family as he makes no time for us plus he does not care to go to NY.
ReplyDeleteI am married to my husband for the past 8 years. He abused me in the past phisically &verbally.He still does verbally. I was in a marriage prior to this one,and I left because things didn't worked out and I wasn't happy at all. I used to live in the USA. I decided to start a new happy life with my present husband, so I left everything & flew to Trinidad to start my new life. We are Tinidadians. Things was really nice in the beginning. I have a 6 year old daughter, whom we both love very much. He has a son from a previous marriage who will be turning 18 very soon.My husband is paying maintenance even though he is here very often. I love my stepson, even though my husband thinks otherwise, because I think he is jealous that the child & I get along so good. When he decided to stop hitting me, he said "I know what is worse than lix!" So that is why he started to bring his son ever so often, give him all the attention & treat him nice, and treated me like I am no one in his life. It really made me angry. He doesn't want me to work, have any friends, or even visit my father. Is insecure if I am in the phone or computer.Tells me his son is going to kick me out of this house. His son doesn't even knows how we have everthing here. We live in a house my husband owns, in land that is in he & his siblings name. It is not separated. All my savings that I had ,from working in the USA, we opened an account in both of us name , but I can't spend any of the money, Only he can spend. He said nothing is mine, and tells me get out of his house. I am not working. What is my status? Because of how things are going in this place, I mean the crimes, I am not leaving for the sake of my daughter. My husband goes when he wants, doesn't even tell me where he is going. I cook, wash, clean & do everything for him. I am so stessed when his son is here because of he treats me. What happens when his son turns 18 years? Does he live with us or his mom who is a single parent? I am so fed up! Where do I go from here? I need your advice.
ReplyDeletehi, when i was much younger my mother got married and together they had a son.She entered the relationship with seven other children and many years later he secretly formed a will putting the house on his child's name excluding his wife and her other children.He is now decease and what legal rights do his wife and step children have?
ReplyDeleteIf the husband and wife seperated for more than five years and only lived with eachother for about a month when they married do they need to file for a divorce? And if so how much money it would be? How long it would take?
ReplyDeletedoes legal aid lawyers handle divorce cases in trinidad?
ReplyDeleteMy fiance and I are trying to get married, but he is still legally maried to his 1st wife who has been deported to Trinidad from the U.S., they have been legally separated for 9 years, the papers have been drawn and she wont sign them, so what can we do to get this solved?
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteI am married two years now, with one child. I moved out about two months now, due to unreasonable behaviour. We are presently trying therapy/counseling etc but with no success. He is verbally abusive and an alcoholic. Should i wait for him to file the petition? the baby stays at his place during the day as the baby sitter comes there and she spends the nights and weekend with me.
How would this work out when we get a divorce?
how much money can a woman ask for in maintenace case against her husband and what can she claim for
ReplyDeletemy husband left home about two weeks ago. we have been married for three years and we have a baby. we have been building a house together which is still being built. will i be entitled to the home or part ownership. i contributed to the house financially and i have receipts in our name to show
ReplyDeleteHello, I am filing for divorce due to the marriage has been broken down irretrievably. I would like to know. Can revert to my maiden name and safely continue doing business as usual before the divorce is final? Thank you.
ReplyDeleteGood day, I have been married for 20 years. The house we live in belonged to my in-laws, the will states that the property goes to my husband (this will was done during my marriage). I have been a housewife all my marriage so that I could care for my in-laws and 2 children. Both my children are over 18 years now. My question is; when I apply for divorce, would I be entitled to any property? would I receive maintenance for myself (I do not have any home or job/work experience to turn to in the event of a divorce)? If yes, is this definite or does it depend on the magistrate? P.S. there is grounds for divorce (unacceptable behavior, adultery, abuse all on the part of my spouse). Thank you so much for your comments and advice in advance.
ReplyDeleteHello I have been seperated from my husband for over two years, and the divorce proceeding are not yet coomplete. I would like to obtain my documentsie passport, ID card, etc in my maiden name I would like to know, Can I revert to my maiden name before the divorce is final? Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI have been separated from my wife for over 2 years due to he excessive spending and infidelity. I have been residing in another country but i have been supporting my children and the household even though she earns more than i do. I stopped supporting the household after she started advertising her unfaithful ways on Facebook. I still maintain my children of course and will continue to do so no matter what. My question is if I file for divorce now, will she be entitled to the assets that i managed to save abroad while separated. It will be difficult to start over again if she takes half of that too.
ReplyDeletehi, i am currently living with my spouse on the grond floor of my mom's home for the past 5 years, my spouse is at a point where they are comfortable living like this, while i want to own my own, they have for the past 11 months accused me of having an affair, have friends following me & watching my every move, constantly calling my cell & work line throught the work day, has even indirectly made physical harm threats towards me. they do not support me financially and is continuously putting us in debts. please advise if i can file for a divorce under these circumstances
ReplyDeleteI 've been married for 17 mths and I am seeking a divorce,he had purchased a piece of land and started the foundation of the house with his money before we got married,after marriage we got a mortgage jointly and completed the property what righs do I have to the completed property ?
ReplyDeletehi, i hope that someone can help me.
ReplyDeleteI have been living with my husband for ten years, married four.two children ages seven and nine months. He has been in and out of affairs for at least eight of the ten years.We live with his mother in her house. recently he has asked for a divorce, which is fine by me. but this is the problem. we already lead two separate lives but under the same roof . i want to leave the home because i have no where to go and can't afford to pay rent. what are my potions?
To whom it may concern,
ReplyDeleteGood day, I have read this thread and I sympathise with you as there are plenty answers that you state that are applicable to many questions of the like nature. However, My question is : if a couple decides on mutually ending a marriage, can they apply for divorce without lawyers? if it can be done so, is a divorce free from fees. Thank you.
Ok so i am married my wife lives in Trinidad & i live in The USA i can not get in touch with her. we having talked in over 3 years & I want to remarry. how do i get a divorce from her.
ReplyDeleteI have a friend whom his wife filed for divorce which totally surprised him as he was totally unaware her family have been pulling her strings if she filed but has no proof what is she entitled to their daughter is 13
ReplyDeleteMy husband met me with a house. During the marriage he renovated it and now says it is his. The renovation was done in such a way that we now have three appartments. He had said that we would rent two and live in one but now he has moved into the biggest one and and says that I have no rights. Please advise
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteI was married for 2 years to a woman in which time we had a daughter. I left the marital home because we could not resolve our differences. She took me to the family court concerning the child and there is court order re: custody. She did not want child maintenance and she withdrew the petition for alimony. It is now 8 years later and I am ready to file for divorce.
My questions are:
1. Is there anyway that she can contest the divorce at this stage?
2. How long does the court take to grant the divorce.
3. Approximately how much does the process cost?
Hello, I am a non-national married to a trinidadian for just over a year. I have started the process of acquiring Resident status. We have an 18mth old child. My marriage is at a stage where I believe Ive made an incorrect decision. My husband's assets are not in his name due to past financial matters. I do not want his assets. I would like our child to be adequately maintained.
ReplyDelete