When a marriage reaches a dead end, many people assume the next step is going straight to court. In Dubai, though, most personal status cases, such as divorce, custody and maintenance, go through a first stage called family guidance, whose aim is to help both sides reach an agreement before the disagreement turns into a long dispute.
What is family guidance?
One or more sessions with a specialist family counsellor, who listens to both sides and tries to bring their views closer, whether towards reconciliation or towards a separation by mutual consent on clear terms. If the two sides agree, the agreement is written down and has legal effect; if not, the case is referred to court.
How to prepare for the session
- Write down what matters most to you: arrangements for the children, housing, expenses and school.
- Gather the key documents: the marriage contract, the children’s birth certificates, IDs, and proof of income and expenses.
- Think in advance about the solutions you can accept, not only your demands.
- Stay calm and respectful: what you say in the session leaves a mark on how the case develops.
What if we don’t agree?
If no agreement is reached, the case is referred to the competent court. Settlement remains possible at any later stage, and many files end with an agreement even after the case has started.
The children come first
Courts base their custody and visitation decisions on the best interests of the children. Agreeing a clear schedule for visits, holidays and travel helps protect your children from the details of the dispute.
When to talk to a lawyer
Before the first session if you can, so you know your rights, your obligations and the realistic options: an agreement you sign at family guidance can be hard to change later. Some rules also differ depending on the religion and nationality of the parties, which we explain at the consultation.
