Divorce, maintenance and protection from violence: which court hears what, what has to be proved, and how long it takes. Each question below is answered on its own page, by reference to the law of Trinidad and Tobago.
These questions belong to Family Law, the practice page that sets out how such a matter is run.
Last reviewed 22 September 2026
Questions on family law
- What are the grounds for divorce in Trinidad and Tobago? The only ground is that the marriage has broken down irretrievably, shown by one of five facts. They are your spouse's adultery, where you find it intolerable to live with them; behaviour that means you cannot reasonably be expected to live with them; 2 years' desertion; 2 years' separation with consent; or 5 years' separation. You cannot file within the first year of marriage without a judge's leave.
- How long does a divorce take in Trinidad and Tobago, and what does it cost? There is no fixed total time. In an undefended divorce the rules set the pace. The first hearing is normally within 8 weeks of the petition being issued, and the decree nisi is usually granted there. You can apply for the decree absolute, which ends the marriage, 6 weeks after that. Disputes over children, property or maintenance add most of the time and cost.
- How do I apply for child maintenance in Trinidad and Tobago? Apply to the Family Court or, depending on where you live, the magistrates' court, under the Family Law (Guardianship of Minors, Domicile and Maintenance) Act. A mother, father, guardian or custodian can apply for a child under 18, whether or not the parents were married. Ask the court to order payments to continue to 18, or they stop when the child turns 16.
- How do I get a protection order in Trinidad and Tobago? Apply on Form 1 to the Family Court or, depending on where you live, a magistrates' court, under the Domestic Violence Act. Anyone in a domestic relationship with the abuser can apply, including a current or former spouse, cohabitant, fiancé(e) or dating partner, a relative, or the other parent of your child. The court can make an interim order before the other person is told. A protection order normally lasts up to 3 years.
Important notice. This page is general information about the law of Trinidad and Tobago. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. The law changes, and how it applies depends on the facts, so take advice on your own situation before you act. Court decisions are cited for the principle they state; similar results cannot be guaranteed, and a decision may be subject to appeal or change.
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Commentary / Family
Family Law in Trinidad and Tobago
By Suraj Sakal, Attorney-at-Law, called to the Bar of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago