What is the Age Limit for a Child to Claim Maintenance from the Father?

Under current laws in Pakistan, a father is obligated to maintain his daughter until she gets married. Once married, the responsibility for her maintenance shifts to her husband. However, if a daughter is divorced and lacks an income, the father must continue to support her until she remarries. For Sons: A son is entitled to maintenance from his father until he reaches 18 years of age. This law is based on the principle that individuals should become self-sufficient upon reaching adulthood. However, if a son wishes to pursue further education and remains dependent on his father, the father cannot refuse to provide maintenance. Therefore, there is no blanket rule allowing a father to evade his responsibilities based solely on the child's age; each case must be evaluated based on its unique circumstances.

What Happens if the Father Fails to Comply with the Maintenance Order?

If a father fails to adhere to a maintenance decree for the minor, the court has several enforcement options. It can attach his assets or, if he is a salaried employee, deduct maintenance directly from his salary. In cases where the father lacks sufficient assets, the court may order his arrest, which could result in imprisonment for six months to a year. Additionally, the grandfather of the minor may also be held responsible for fulfilling the maintenance order, and the court can attach any of his assets to ensure compliance with the maintenance obligation.