If you’re considering an Islamic Marriage Annulment (Faskh), we’re here to help
Not all marriages break down the same way, and not all separations are initiated through Talaq or Khula. In some cases, where serious harm or injustice has occurred, Faskh (Islamic Marriage Annulment) may be an option.
At Rashid Solicitors, we provide confidential, culturally sensitive legal advice to Muslim clients considering Islamic Marriage Annulment. We’re a female-led, boutique firm based in East London, with over 15 years of experience in Islamic and family law. Our approach is grounded in both compassion and expertise — designed to give you clarity, strength, and informed guidance.
What is Faskh (Islamic Marriage Annulment)?
Faskh is the Islamic process of annulling a marriage due to specific circumstances such as harm, neglect, or failure to meet marital obligations. Unlike Talaq, which is issued by the husband, or Khula, which is requested by the wife often with the return of mahr, Faskh can be granted by a qualified Islamic authority or tribunal based on evidence of hardship.
Grounds for Faskh may include
- Abuse or mistreatment
- Prolonged absence or abandonment
- Failure to provide financial support (nafaqah)
- Impotence or inability to consummate the marriage
- Forced marriage or lack of valid consent at the time of Nikah
- Ongoing emotional, religious, or psychological harm
Each case is assessed on its individual merits and in light of Islamic principles and the school of thought you follow. Whether Hanafi, Shafi, Maliki, or Hanbali, we understand the variations and can help you navigate your options respectfully.
Under English law, an Islamic Marriage Annulment does not automatically terminate a civil marriage. If your marriage was registered in the UK, a civil divorce must also be obtained to dissolve the union legally.
How We Can Support You
We offer tailored advice based on your specific circumstances. Whether you’re seeking a Faskh because of abuse, neglect, or another valid reason, we can help you understand your rights and next steps.
We can support you by
- Reviewing your Nikah and civil marriage documents
- Explaining your eligibility for Faskh under your madhab
- Preparing written letters or submissions for a Sharia council or religious tribunal
- Exploring other Islamic and legal options such as Talaq, Khula, or civil divorce
- Referring you to trusted religious or community-based organisations for additional support
- Offering safe, confidential appointments — including women-only consultations if preferred
We know that no two situations are the same, which is why our support is always shaped around you. You don’t need to have all the answers. We’re here to make things clear and manageable, so you can move forward with confidence and make the decisions that feel right for you.
Step-by-Step Process
Here’s what to expect if you choose to explore Faskh through Rashid Solicitors
- Initial call – A confidential phone conversation with a solicitor
- Private consultation – Tailored legal advice in plain, understandable language
- Review of documents – Including Nikah, mahr, and civil registration
- Submission preparation – Letters or forms for a recognised religious body
- Follow-up guidance – Civil divorce or protection orders if needed
- Ongoing support – Discreet advice available by phone, video, or in-person
Why Clients Choose Rashid Solicitors
When someone reaches out to us, it’s often during a difficult and personal time. We understand the sensitivities involved in matters of Islamic divorce and approach every case with care, confidentiality, and clarity. Our focus is on helping you navigate the legal and religious aspects of your situation with confidence and dignity.
Many of our clients are looking for advice that reflects not only their legal rights, but also their cultural and religious values. Whether you are just exploring your options or need support through a formal Faskh process, we provide guidance that is practical, respectful, and always in your best interest.
People choose Rashid Solicitors because
- We are a female-led boutique law firm with over 15 years of legal experience
- Our solicitors specialise in Islamic family law, including Faskh, Khula, and Talaq
- We provide faith-aware guidance across all four madhabs: Hanafi, Shafi, Maliki, and Hanbali
- Our advice is grounded in both English law and Islamic principles
- We offer clear explanations in plain language so you can make informed decisions
- Consultations are available by phone, video, or in person — including evenings if needed
- Women-only appointments are available on request
- All fees are fixed and VAT-free, with no hidden charges
- We have strong working relationships with respected community and faith-based organisations
- Every matter is handled with professionalism, discretion, and cultural understanding
to support you in understanding your rights and taking the next step with clarity and care.
Who Will Support You
Your case will be handled by a qualified solicitor experienced in both Islamic and English family law. We listen carefully, ask the right questions, and work with you to build a clear plan, always with respect for your privacy, faith, and choices.
Fixed Fee for Faskh Legal Advice
Service
Legal advice and guidance on Islamic Marriage Annulment (Faskh) and related options
Fee
From ÂŁ250 (no VAT)
Included
- One-off consultation with a qualified solicitor
- Review of your Nikah and civil registration (if applicable)
- Advice on your eligibility for Faskh under your madhab
- Preparation of legal letters, referrals, or evidence statements (as required)
Not included
- Civil divorce application or court representation
- Tribunal or religious authority fees
- Document translation, service, or delivery
All costs are confirmed in writing before any work begins. If further support is needed, we’ll provide a clear, fixed quote.
Call in Confidence
Call us
Weekdays 9am to 7pm.
Saturday and Sunday appointments available.
- Fixed-fee advice with no hidden costs
- Flexible appointments, including out-of-hours
- You choose how we stay in touch
Request a confidential callback
We Work Across East London
We support clients across
- Tower Hamlets (Whitechapel, Mile End, Bethnal Green, Bow, Wapping, and Isle of Dogs)
- Redbridge (Ilford, Seven Kings, Gants Hill, Clayhall)
- Barking and Dagenham (Becontree, Chadwell Heath, Dagenham East)
- Havering (Romford, Rainham, Elm Park)
You don’t need to go through this alone. Whether you’re ready to act now, or just want to talk, we’re here for you.
Disclaimer: This page gives general legal information. It’s not a substitute for tailored legal advice.
Contact us to discuss your situation privately.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you had both a Nikah and a registered civil marriage in the UK, you will usually need to complete both processes. A civil divorce ends your marriage in English law, while an Islamic divorce dissolves the marriage in the eyes of your faith. Completing both ensures you are free to remarry in both legal and religious contexts, and prevents any future uncertainty about your status. Our East London Islamic divorce solicitors can guide you through both processes in a coordinated and efficient way.
Yes. Running your civil and Islamic divorce in parallel is often the most efficient approach. This can help you avoid delays, reduce stress, and ensure that decisions about children, finances, and religious obligations are aligned. We frequently help clients manage both applications side by side so there are no conflicting outcomes.
Yes. In a civil divorce, the court can progress the matter even if the other party refuses to engage. For an Islamic divorce, options such as Khula (with consent) or Faskh (annulment granted by an Islamic authority) are available if a spouse will not issue a Talaq. Our solicitors can prepare the necessary applications, liaise with reputable Islamic councils or scholars, and represent you throughout.
An Islamic divorce alone is not recognised under English law. You will still need a civil divorce to legally end your marriage in England and Wales. Without this, you remain married for legal purposes such as inheritance, property, and financial claims. We ensure both your civil and Islamic divorces are handled properly to avoid gaps or disputes later.
Yes. We work closely with both male Islamic scholars and female Sheikhas to ensure advice is balanced, faith-compliant, and representative. This gives clients the option to speak to someone they feel comfortable with, especially on sensitive matters, and ensures rulings are recognised by reputable bodies across the UK.
Yes. We regularly assist clients whose marriages took place overseas, particularly in Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, and other countries in the subcontinent. We confirm whether your overseas marriage is recognised in English law, then guide you through the required civil and Islamic divorce processes to bring matters to a clear and lawful conclusion.
If you only had a Nikah and did not register your marriage under civil law, you are not legally married under English law. You will still need an Islamic divorce for religious purposes, and you may have rights under family law for children or financial matters. Our East London Islamic divorce solicitors can explain your position and the protections available.
The timeframe depends on the process — Talaq, Khula, or Faskh — and whether both parties cooperate. Some Islamic divorces are completed within weeks, while contested or complex cases can take months. We provide a realistic timescale from the outset so you know what to expect.
Under the no-fault divorce system, the minimum timeframe is six months. Delays may occur if there are disputes over finances or childcare, but we work to keep your case moving without unnecessary interruptions.
Not automatically. Most mosques and Islamic councils require their own process before issuing an Islamic divorce certificate. We can manage both matters in parallel so you have the correct documentation for both law and faith.
You can start either process independently, but professional guidance helps avoid delays, missing information, or results that fail to meet legal or religious requirements. Our solicitors ensure your divorce is compliant in both systems from the start.
Yes. We understand that divorce in Muslim communities can attract unwanted attention or pressure. All your information is kept strictly confidential, and we use secure, discreet communication channels to protect your privacy.
You should wait until your civil divorce has reached the Final Order. An Islamic divorce alone does not end a civil marriage under English law, so remarrying before the civil process is complete may cause legal and religious complications.
In English law, you are not legally married, so a civil divorce is not needed. You may still require an Islamic divorce for religious purposes, and we can advise you on your rights in relation to finances and children under English family law.