A guardianship certificate in Pakistan is a crucial legal document that gives a parent, relative, or guardian legal authority over a child’s care, education, and property. If you are living in Karachi and need to apply for a guardianship certificate, understanding the process, documents, cost, and legal requirements is essential. Hiring an experienced guardianship lawyer in Karachi can save time and ensure your case is handled smoothly.
This guide explains the step by step process, rights under Pakistani law, and how MAH&CO. Family Lawyers can support you with complete legal assistance.
A Guardianship Certificate is issued by the Family Court under the Guardian and Wards Act, 1890.
It gives a person legal authority over a minor (a child under 18 years).
Mother or Father: usually one parent applies after divorce or separation.
Grandparents or Relatives: if both parents are unavailable or unfit.
Court Appointed Guardian: in rare cases, the court may appoint someone else in the child’s best interest.
For parents dealing with divorce or separation, read our Complete Guide on Child Custody in Karachi
Without a guardianship certificate, you may face difficulties in.
School Admission & Education Documents
Passport & CNIC Issuance for Minor
Inheritance & Property Rights
Medical Treatment & Travel Abroad
A guardianship lawyer in Karachi ensures all paperwork and court submissions are accurate, avoiding unnecessary delays.
You cannot apply directly without legal assistance. A lawyer files the guardianship petition in the Family Court.
Your lawyer prepares and files a petition including.
Details of the Minor (age, birth certificate)
Details of Applicant (Parent/Relative)
Reason for Seeking Guardianship
Proof of Relationship with the Minor
The court sends notices to.
The other parent (if alive)
Relatives, if relevant
The judge reviews.
Welfare of the child (education, living conditions, financial stability)
Applicant’s ability to take responsibility
If satisfied, the court grants a guardianship certificate to the applicant, legally authorizing custody and decision making rights.
To apply, you typically need.
CNIC copy of applicant
Birth certificate of the minor
Proof of relationship (Nikahnama, Family Registration Certificate)
Divorce deed or death certificate of other parent (if applicable)
Utility bills as proof of residence
Two passport-size photographs
On average, the process takes.
3 to 6 months: if uncontested
6 months to 1 year: if objections are raised by other parties
A specialized guardianship lawyer in Karachi can help speed up the process by preparing documents and handling court formalities.
The cost depends on.
Lawyer’s fee (varies based on experience)
Court fee & documentation charges
Complexity of the case (contested vs uncontested)
On average, legal fees may range from PKR 60,000 to PKR 150,000. Always consult a registered family lawyer for transparent pricing.
At MAH&CO., we understand that custody and guardianship cases are emotionally challenging and legally complex. Our experienced family lawyers in Karachi provide.
✅ Expert Guidance on custody & guardianship law
✅ Transparent Legal Fees with no hidden charges
✅ Fast Processing to save your time
✅ Confidential Consultations for sensitive family issues
Experience: Over 15 years of handling family law cases in Karachi.
Expertise: Certified lawyers under Pakistan Bar Council.
Authority: Recognized as leading family law specialists in Karachi.
Trust: Hundreds of satisfied clients with successful outcomes.
📍 Office: Elegant Tower, Office 401, 4th Floor, Clifton Block 5, Karachi, Pakistan.
📞 Phone: +92-345-8231881 | +92-300-3444617
📧 Email: a.karim@mahlegal.org | info@mahlegal.org
Birth certificate, CNIC, proof of relationship, and court petition are required.
It usually takes 3–6 months, depending on case complexity.
Yes, if parents are unavailable or unfit, grandparents can apply.
Yes, a lawyer must file and represent your case in court.
Fees range from PKR 60,000–150,000, depending on the lawyer and case.
Yes, if the court decides it is in the child’s best interest.
The Guardian and Wards Act, 1890.
Yes, the other parent or relatives can contest it.
Yes, custody is about daily care, guardianship is about legal authority.
By handling your petition, documents, and court process professionally.