Family Issues in Pakistan and Their Legal Solutions – Expert Advice

Most common Family Issues in Pakistan

Social And Cultural Issues

Family life in Pakistan is deeply tied to traditions, religion, and social norms. These values can strengthen families but sometimes create pressure and inequality. Understanding these social and cultural issues helps families protect their rights and build harmony.

Domestic violence and weak legal protection

Domestic violence remains widespread across the country. Research from the Aga Khan University (AEIRC) shows that about 34% of married women face physical or emotional violence.
Many victims stay silent because of fear, shame, or lack of support. Although laws like the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Acts exist, weak enforcement limits justice.

For the detail guide on the Family Legal Issues Guide check it.

Gender inequality in property and inheritance

Women in Pakistan still face major barriers in receiving their legal inheritance. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, around 90% of women are denied their rightful property shares.
Cultural pressure and manipulation through gift deeds often push women to give up property rights. This limits their independence and affects family stability.

Marital conflicts and custody battles

Marital disputes such as divorce, khula, and child custody often turn bitter. Many women face social stigma when they try to end abusive or failed marriages. The Family Courts Act provides a legal path, but slow court processes make resolution difficult.

Forced or early marriages

Forced and early marriages still affect young girls in many areas. According to UNICEF, around 18% of Pakistani girls marry before 18. (UNICEF Pakistan)
Such marriages often lead to domestic abuse, health risks, and early dropouts from education.

Stigma against single mothers

Single mothers often face judgment and limited opportunities. They struggle to find stable work, safe housing, and proper education for their children. Weak enforcement of maintenance orders leaves many families without support.

Solution Guide:

To overcome social and cultural barriers, awareness and access to justice are vital. Strengthening the enforcement of domestic violence and inheritance laws can protect vulnerable women. Families should seek legal guidance early, and community awareness programs can help reduce stigma and promote gender equality.

Economic and financial issues

Economic pressure has become a leading cause of family stress in Pakistan. Rising prices, low wages, and job insecurity make daily life difficult for ordinary households.

Rising prices of Essential Life Saving Things and daily inflation

Inflation affects every family. The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics reported a 6.5% rise in overall inflation in January 2025, with food and medicine prices rising the most.
Families spend most of their income on survival, leaving little for savings or emergencies.

Low wages and job insecurity

Low incomes and unstable jobs add to financial hardship. The Pakistan Economic Survey 2023–24 shows unemployment at 4.5 million, with youth unemployment above 11%.
Without social protection or fair wages, many families struggle to meet basic needs.

Heavy taxes on common families

High electricity bills, fuel costs, and indirect taxes have reduced household purchasing power. Families cut spending on food, healthcare, and schooling to manage monthly expenses.

Struggle to save money

Most middle-income families can no longer save. Continuous inflation and rising living costs push them into uncertainty. Without savings, even a small crisis can turn into long-term debt.

Growing household debt

To survive, many families borrow money from informal lenders. The Business Standard notes that such debt is rising among low-income groups.
This deepens financial stress and affects relationships within the family.

Solution Guide:

Economic relief must focus on stability and opportunity. Families can benefit from financial education, saving plans, and affordable health or life insurance. The government should ensure fair wages, create secure jobs, and control inflation to reduce pressure on ordinary families.

Health and development issues

Health plays a vital role in family wellbeing. In Pakistan, poor healthcare systems and limited access to safe treatment add to family challenges.

Medical Negligence

Medical negligence cases are increasing. Errors in treatment or delayed diagnosis cause long-term suffering. Weak oversight of hospitals makes accountability rare.

Wrong treatment or diagnosis

Many patients receive wrong prescriptions or poor treatment from unqualified practitioners. Families lose both money and trust in the system.

Fake or unsafe medicines

Fake drugs remain a major risk. The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) often seizes counterfeit medicines, yet they still reach local markets. Using such drugs leads to health complications and loss of savings.

Poor Hospital Conditions

Public hospitals face overcrowding, lack of staff, and poor hygiene. Families from rural areas travel far for treatment, adding travel costs and stress.

Lack of Health Insurance

Most families pay for healthcare out of pocket. Programs like Sehat Sahulat have helped some, but millions remain uninsured and vulnerable.

Mental Health Neglect

Mental health problems are growing fast. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 25 million Pakistanis suffer from mental illness, but there are fewer than 500 psychiatrists in the country. (WHO & Dawn)
Stigma and lack of services leave families without help.

Solution Guide:

Improving healthcare access requires both policy and awareness. Families should verify licensed doctors, report negligence, and use health insurance where available. The state must regulate medicine quality, invest in hospitals, and promote mental health education.

Final And Advanced Family Issues Solution

Family problems in Pakistan are deeply connected to culture, economy, and health. Strong laws exist, but real change depends on awareness and consistent enforcement.

A stable family environment needs equal rights, social respect, and financial security. Empowering women, improving education, and reducing poverty are the roots of long-term solutions.

When families understand their legal rights and access fair systems, they can overcome challenges with confidence and build a stronger, balanced society.

1. How can a family resolve inheritance or property disputes legally?

Families can apply for a succession certificate or letter of administration under the Succession Act 1925. Mediation before filing in civil court can help settle matters faster and peacefully.

2. Can family issues be settled outside of court in Pakistan?

Yes. Many disputes are resolved through mediation or arbitration under ADR laws, helping families reach agreements without lengthy court cases.

3. What are the legal remedies for victims of forced or early marriage?

Such marriages are illegal under the Child Marriage Restraint Act 1929. Victims can approach the family court or police to cancel the marriage and take action against those responsible.

4. How can families deal with property disputes caused by false documentation?

File a civil suit for document cancellation under the Specific Relief Act 1877. Always verify property records from the land revenue department to avoid fraud.