Guardianship Certificate in Pakistan

Guardianship Certificate in Pakistan ,  is a legal arrangement through which an adult is given the responsibility to care for a child’s person, property, or both. In Pakistan, guardianship matters are regulated under the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 , which remains the primary legislation dealing with the appointment and supervision of guardians. In Islamic law, the father is traditionally regarded as the natural guardian of a child, particularly for matters related to property and legal affairs, while the mother is often considered the primary custodian during the child’s early years. This dual distinction between guardianship (wilayah) and custody (hizanat) sometimes creates complications when guardianship is contested. A common issue arises when the biological father refuses to consent to guardianship, particularly when the mother, relative, or any third party seeks legal recognition as a guardian. Father as the Natural Guardian By default, the biological father is recognize...

 A        Guardianship Certificate in Pakistan  is an official document issued by a court under the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 , granting a person legal authority to act as the guardian of a minor. This certificate is often necessary when dealing with matters such as the child’s travel abroad, property management, inheritance, or official documentation. One of the most common concerns for applicants is the timeframe — how long it actually takes to obtain the certificate from the moment the process begins. The answer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, whether there are disputes, and the efficiency of the court involved. On average, the process can take two to six months , but it may be shorter in straightforward cases or longer if contested. 1. The Legal Framework The process for obtaining a Guardianship Certificate in Pakistan is governed by the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 , which sets out the court’s powers, the pro...