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⚖️ Difference Between Maintenance, Alimony & Interim Maintenance

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💐 Welcome

Hello friends, welcome to Delhi Law Firm®, your trusted legal partner for justice and family law guidance across India.
In this post, we clearly explain the difference between Maintenance, Alimony, and Interim Maintenance with the latest law updates.

📘 What Each Term Means

🧾 Maintenance

  • Ongoing financial support to a wife, child, or parent for basic needs (food, housing, education, medical care).
  • Law: Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, Section 144 (earlier CrPC 125).
  • Purpose: Prevents destitution; ensures dignity and responsibility within the family.

💰 Alimony (Permanent Alimony)

  • Long-term/permanent support after divorce — either lump sum or periodic.
  • Law: Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, Section 25.
  • Goal: Safeguard the financially weaker spouse’s standard of living and dignity.

🕊️ Interim Maintenance

  • Temporary relief while the case is pending (divorce/maintenance/DV).
  • Law: HMA Section 24 and Domestic Violence Act, 2005 Section 20.
  • Ensures essential expenses are met until the final order.

🧭 Quick Comparison (At a Glance)

  • Maintenance: During marriage/separation • BNSS §144
  • Alimony: After divorce (permanent/lump sum) • HMA §25
  • Interim Maintenance: While proceedings are pending • HMA §24 / DV Act §20

🏛️ Key Supreme Court Guidance

Rajnesh vs Neha (2021):

  • Uniform guidelines for maintenance across India.
  • Mandatory full financial disclosure by both sides.
  • Maintenance is protection, not punishment; concealment of income can invite strict action.

✅ Practical Checklist (For Clients)

  • Prepare an income–expense sheet with proofs: salary slips, bank statements, ITR.
  • If you are dependent, apply early for interim maintenance to avoid hardship.
  • If you are paying, request a fair amount and seek modification if circumstances change.
  • Keep copies of notices, orders, and all filings organized by date.

💬 Need Help?

Delhi Law Firm® has successfully handled cases under BNSS §144, HMA §§24 & 25, and DV Act §20.
For consultations and case strategy:

🌐 Website: www.delhilawfirm.in
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