14 July 2026

Family Lawyers in Malaysia

Learn how family law works in Malaysia, where Sharia law applies to Muslims and civil laws to non-Muslims, and contact our family lawyers for advice.

Malaysia has two distinct sources for matters concerning family law. The Islamic Sharia Law applies to Muslims while several other laws and acts govern non-Muslims. The Civil Law Act allows for the usage of common law and rules of the English common law if there are no specific statutes in Malaysia to govern a certain family law aspect.
Family disputes of non-Muslims are brought before the civil courts, while those of Muslims are heard by the Syariah courts. Foreigners living in Malaysia who have legal issues concerning family law will have to meet the local laws for marriage, divorce and taking care of the children if their marriage was registered in the country or if the spouses have their domicile in the country when they submit their legal claim.
One of our family lawyers in Malaysia can help you solve personal matters related to marriage, divorce, child custody or the division of assets.

Laws governing family matters in Malaysia

The Civil Law Act 1956 is an important resource for dealing with family law matters. In some respects, it relies on the English common law, particularly in the case of custody and infant control. Other significant laws include the Law Reform (Marriage and Divorce) Act 1976, the Married Women Act, the Married Women and Children (Maintenance) Act 1950, the Child Act and the Guardianship of Infants Act.
According to Family Law, a marriage concluded outside of Malaysia can be valid in the country if the spouses had the legal capacity to marry and if it is concluded in a legal form, according to the laws of that country. Civil partnerships are not recognized in Malaysia. One of our Malaysian family lawyers is able to help you with information about the recognition of your marriage if you are living in Malaysia and have married in another country.

Legal aid for family-related matters


Family disputes in Malaysia are often settled in court. Mediation and arbitration are two available options for settling family disputes outside of court. The parties who agree to mediate must conclude a special agreement for this purpose: once an agreement is reached with the help of a mediator, the parties sign an agreement in the presence of the mediator.
Our family lawyer in Malaysia has extensive knowledge in various legal areas and can offer the proper solutions for your case. If you are interested in mergers and acquisitions or if you are involved in business-related disputes, our recommendation is to discuss all aspects with our expert. Moreover, we can offer legal assistance for signing business contracts, joint venture formation, or business management. Contact us now for a free case evaluation.
Our family lawyers in Malaysia can help you solve any family disputes. You can contact us for issues like marriage, divorce, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, child custody or adoption, the division of assets between parties and others. You can contact us for further details and legal representation.