Does a mother always get custody of young children in Pakistan?
In Child Custody Laws in Pakistan matters of family disputes and divorce in Pakistan, one of the most emotionally charged and legally complex issues is the custody of children . While it is often assumed that the mother automatically gets custody of young children , the legal reality in Pakistan is more nuanced. The courts follow a child-centric approach , and although mothers are generally favored for the custody of minor children—especially very young ones—custody is not guaranteed . The ultimate decision rests on the principle of the "welfare of the minor," which is the cornerstone of child custody laws in Pakistan. Legal Framework for Child Custody in Pakistan Child custody in Pakistan is governed primarily by: The Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 Islamic personal laws Relevant judicial precedents and family court rules Under this framework, the parent who has custody of the child is referred to as the custodial parent , and the other par...