Introduction

Divorce in Jordan is governed by the Personal Status Law No. 36 of 2010, derived from Islamic jurisprudence. Sharia courts have exclusive jurisdiction.

Types of Divorce

  • Revocable Divorce: husband may revoke during waiting period.
  • Irrevocable Divorce: minor (requires new contract) or major (requires intervening marriage).
  • Khul: wife-initiated dissolution in exchange for returning dowry.
  • Judicial Separation: court-ordered on grounds of absence, imprisonment, non-maintenance, harm, or chronic illness.

Wife's Financial Rights

Upon divorce, the wife is entitled to deferred dowry, maintenance during waiting period, divorce compensation, child support, and custody fees.

Child Custody

Mother retains custody of sons until 15 and daughters until marriage, subject to the child's best interest.