Court marriages, also known as civil marriages, are becoming increasingly popular in Pakistan. Traditionally, marriages in Pakistan were arranged by families, and the couple had little say in the matter. However, with the rise of globalization and the influence of Western culture, more and more young people are opting for court marriages.

There are several reasons why court marriages are becoming a growing trend in Pakistan. One of the main reasons is that they offer greater freedom and independence to the couple. In a court marriage, the couple can choose to marry without the approval or involvement of their families, which is particularly appealing to those who want to marry someone from a different caste or religion.

Another reason why court marriages are becoming popular is that they offer greater legal protection to the couple. In a court marriage, the couple’s marriage is recognized by law, which means that they are entitled to legal protections and benefits, such as inheritance rights and the ability to make medical decisions for each other.

The process of getting a court marriage in Pakistan is relatively straightforward. The couple needs to submit an application to the local marriage registrar’s office, along with their identification documents and a copy of their divorce or death certificates if they were previously married. Once the application is approved, the couple can get married in the presence of a marriage registrar and two witnesses.

One of the benefits of court marriage is that it is a quick and cost-effective process. Unlike traditional weddings, which can be expensive and time-consuming, court marriages can be completed in a matter of hours and at a fraction of the cost.

However, it’s important to note that court marriages are not without their challenges. One of the main challenges is a social stigma, particularly for women. In Pakistani society, women who marry without their families’ approval can face social ostracism and even violence. There is also the risk of legal challenges from family members who may contest the validity of the marriage.

Despite these challenges, court marriages are becoming a growing trend in Pakistan. They offer greater freedom, legal protection, and cost-effectiveness to the couple. However, it’s important for couples to weigh the pros and cons of a court marriage carefully and to seek legal advice before making any decisions. With the right legal guidance, a court marriage can be a safe and fulfilling way for couples to start their lives together.