In India, over the last 10 years, there has been a sudden increase in divorce cases. There were more than 70,000 pending divorce cases in Indian courts as of 2025. According to the National Judicial Data Grid, a significant number fall under the category of contested divorce, which usually takes longer and involves more emotional strain.
Understanding the difference between mutual divorce and contested divorce is vital for anyone considering separation. It also aids in making informed legal judgments and limits the stress during a challenging time.
This blog will explain what is mutual divorce and what is contested divorce. Alongside their key differences, and which one to choose. This can assist when selecting the appropriate course of law and the most advantageous law consultations.
What is Mutual Divorce?
Mutual divorce is a cordial legal separation between two spouses in which they consent to divorce. These are the main peculiarities of mutual divorce:
- The divorce is by both husband and wife.
- It involves no dispute involving child custody, alimony, or property.
- It falls under the provisions of Section 13B of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
- The period after the first motion is a 6-month cool-off period.
- It is during this period and at this point that the couple can decide to retract the petition.
- After 6-18 months, the last decision is made in case both sides concur.
What is mutual divorce mainly comes down to is cooperation. It is not time-consuming or expensive. It is also not emotionally exhausting for both parties.
What is Contested Divorce?
In contrast, a contested divorce is when one spouse wants a divorce and the other does not agree. Here’s a breakdown of what is contested divorce:
- Field under Section 13 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
- One partner initiates the case without the other’s consent.
- It has specific grounds, such as cruelty, adultery, desertion, or mental disorder.
- Includes court proceedings, judicial publications, and presentation of evidence.
- It can cause quarrels regarding alimony, custody, and property settlement.
- Very often, it takes years to be solved, according to the workload of the court.
A contested divorce in India can take anywhere between 3 to 7 years, depending on complexity.
Key Difference between Mutual Divorce and Contested Divorce
The legal aspects of the separation are quite similar because the two processes technically result in the termination of a marriage permit. However, the actions and their consequences are distinct. Okay, let us contrast them:
Consent Requirement
- Mutual Divorce: There is consent between the couple, and it is decided that they will divorce.
- Contested Divorce: One party disagrees or is unwilling.
Causes of Filing
- Mutual Divorce: No particular reasons are required. Nothing more than mutual consent.
- Contested Divorce: Requires legal grounds like cruelty or adultery.
Time Duration
- Mutual Divorce: This is between 6 and 18 months in most cases.
- Contested Divorce: Can last 3 to 7 years or more.
Legal Complexity
- Mutual Divorce: Easy procedure and not much legal interference.
- Contested Divorce: Involves lawyers, evidence, and multiple hearings.
Cost
- Mutual Divorce: This is cheaper. Fewer hearings and less time.
- Contested Divorce: High legal fees due to longer duration and court visits.
Emotional Impact
- Mutual Divorce: Compared to other divorces, it is peaceful and respectful.
- Contested Divorce: Emotionally and mentally exhausting.
Privacy
- Mutual Divorce: Reduced exposure to the courtroom.
- Contested Divorce: Public hearings may impact personal reputation.
Appreciating these facts assists couples in making the right decision on the way to go. In many cases, consulting a divorce advocate in Chandigarh can make the process smoother.
Which Option is Right and When?
Deciding between a mutual divorce and a contested divorce depends on personal and legal circumstances.
This is where joint divorce is perfect:
- Both partners are in agreement that the marriage has gone beyond repair.
- No significant tie-up over a major dispute over property and child custody/alimony.
- They do not want people to spend months fighting in court.
Opt for contested divorce in India when:
- One of the married persons does not desire to separate.
- It is either that there is domestic abuse, infidelity, desertion, or cruelty.
- The dispute is over financial issues or custody rights.
- Either partner does not accept negotiating or compromise.
Also, hiring the best lawyers in Chandigarh becomes essential when dealing with a contested divorce. They assist in the collection of evidence, enable you to file petitions, and enable you to represent yourself well in court.
Conclusion
Navigating a divorce is never easy, but understanding the difference between mutual divorce and contested divorce can ease the path.
While mutual divorce promotes harmony and quicker resolution, a contested divorce becomes essential in cases of non-cooperation or serious legal grounds.
Examine the situation thoroughly and take legal advice from trusted people. For complex issues, choosing a seasoned divorce advocate in Chandigarh can make all the difference.
Whether it’s a contested divorce or a mutual one, the right legal support ensures your rights and dignity are protected throughout the process.