CHILD & FAMILY LAW.

I don’t have money to pay divorce legal fees, can my spouse contribute towards these costs in Zimbabwe?

In terms of the law in Zimbabwe married couples have a duty to support each other. This duty includes contributing towards legal costs to institute or defend an action for divorce, judicial separation or nullity of marriage.

CHILD & FAMILY LAW.

Did you know that your spouse can contribute toward your costs for divorce?

In terms section 2(1)(b) of the Matrimonial Causes Act [Chapter 5:13] as read with Rule 67(1) of the High Court Rules, 2021 a spouse who is without means to prosecute or defend an action for divorce or judicial separation, may apply for a contribution towards costs to the High Court of Zimbabwe.

CHILD & FAMILY LAW.

Did you know you can apply for maintenance pending your divorce in Zimbabwe?

A spouse (whether a male or a female) whose divorce is pending, is of right entitled in terms of section 2(1)(b) of the Matrimonial Causes Act [Chapter 5:13] as read with Rule 67(1) of the High Court Rules, 2021, among other things, to maintenance pendete lite (maintenance pending divorce), until a decree of divorce is granted.

CHILD & FAMILY LAW.

Can one apply for maintenance pending divorce in Zimbabwe?

The simple answer is yes. Both the High Court Rules and the Matrimonial Causes Act [Chapter 5:13] among other things, provide for maintenance pending a decree of divorce in Zimbabwe. This is also known as maintenance pendete lite.

CHILD & FAMILY LAW.

The requirements to register a Civil Partnership in Zimbabwe

Civil partnerships are neither registered nor solemnized in Zimbabwe. They are not recognized as marriages. Parties in civil partnerships are co-habiting.

CHILD & FAMILY LAW.

What qualifies as a Civil Partnership in Zimbabwe?

Section 41 of the Marriages Act [Chapter 5:17] defines a ‘civil partnership’ as a relationship between a man and a woman who