Legal Advice India: Simple Answers for Real Problems

Got a legal question that’s keeping you up at night? Whether you’re stuck in a divorce, not getting paid by your boss, or confused about who should paint a rented flat, you don’t need a law degree to find a clear path forward. Below you’ll get straight‑forward steps you can take right now, plus tips on when it’s time to call a professional.

Everyday Issues You Can Handle Yourself

Divorce basics – In India a divorce isn’t instant, but you can speed it up. If both spouses agree, file under mutual consent and ask the court for a waiver of the six‑month cooling‑off period. Gather your marriage certificate, IDs, and a written agreement on alimony and child custody, then submit the petition. For contested or one‑sided divorces, you’ll need a court order proving fault – abandonment, cruelty, or desertion. The key is to keep all communication in writing and stay organized.

Unpaid salary – Your employer must pay you on time under the Payment of Wages Act. If wages are delayed, first remind them in writing and keep a copy of the notice. If there’s no response, approach the labour commissioner with your salary slips and employment contract. You can also file a claim in the labour court for the owed amount plus interest.

Tenant‑owner disputes – The law says the landlord must keep the structure safe, while tenants handle minor repairs like painting, unless the lease says otherwise. Check your rental agreement; if it’s silent, the default rule is that painting is the tenant’s responsibility. When in doubt, ask the landlord for a written agreement that spells out who does what, then keep receipts for any work you do.

Consumer protection – The India Code Consumer Protection Act lets you file a complaint against faulty goods or unfair trade practices. Make a note of the product details, purchase receipt, and any communication with the seller. You can approach the consumer dispute redressal commission in your district. The process is free, and you can often get a refund or replacement within a few weeks.

Adverse possession – If someone has occupied land for 12 continuous years and meets certain criteria, they might claim ownership. It’s a complex area, so before you start any claim, verify the land records at the local revenue office and see if the possession was open, continuous, and without permission.

When to Call a Lawyer

If your divorce involves child custody, property division, or allegations of abuse, a family law attorney can protect your interests and help you navigate court forms. For salary disputes that go beyond simple reminders—like termination without dues—labour lawyers know how to pressure a company into settlement.

Tenant‑owner conflicts that turn into eviction notices or illegal lock‑outs need a property lawyer to file a writ or seek compensation. Consumer cases that involve large sums or corporate defendants also benefit from legal representation to ensure the complaint is filed correctly and evidence is presented well.

Finally, any case that deals with adverse possession, land rights, or potential criminal liability (like fraud) should be handled by a seasoned lawyer. They can conduct proper title searches, draft legal notices, and represent you in court, saving you time and money.

Bottom line: start with the basics, keep everything documented, and don’t hesitate to get professional help when the stakes are high. With the right steps, you can resolve most legal hiccups without endless court battles.