Important Maintenance Decision Issued by Resigned Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani
Mian Nadeem
Published October 29, 2026 | 04:42 PM
The Lahore High Court has ordered an increase in monthly maintenance for minor children from Rs20,000 to Rs30,000 per child. This ruling was made on a petition from a woman regarding her children's monthly expenses.
The court directed the trial court to calculate arrears based on a 10% annual increase since 2019. It also confirmed the previous decision awarding the mother monthly maintenance of Rs15,000 during the iddat period and maintained the value of the dowry articles at Rs280,000.
According to the petitioner, the children's father, a British citizen, is capable of paying higher maintenance. However, the court questioned his claimed income of £500 to £600 per month, stating that residence in Britain doesn't necessarily reflect actual income.
The court emphasized the importance of considering the children's needs, education, and upbringing when determining maintenance. It also noted the Supreme Court's ruling that parental responsibility for children's support continues after a marriage ends.
The father's income claim, the judgment stated, cannot be accepted solely on his word. He must provide documentary evidence such as a salary slip. Child maintenance should be determined based on the children's needs and the father's financial capacity.