The North West District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) played a crucial role in resolving a family dispute, bringing about a positive transformation in the lives of the couple and securing a better future for their child.

At the outset, the applicant approached the DLSA office, complaining of mistreatment by her in-laws and lack of support from her husband. She sought counseling to help her husband understand his responsibilities and improve their family life. Taking the matter seriously, the DLSA counselor intervened immediately and initiated individual, matrimonial, and family counseling sessions for both parties. These sessions provided a space for open communication and emotional expression.

In the first session, a legal notice was sent to the respondent (husband) and his parents. In the second session, short-term goals were set, such as improving communication and assisting the husband in finding a new job based on his needs, qualifications, and interests. Family members also extended their support to help resolve conflicts between the couple and their families.

Both parties were then given 20 days to reflect on their relationship and family’s future. When they returned for the follow-up session, a noticeable change was observed. Communication and understanding between them had improved significantly. They actively discussed the positive and negative aspects of their relationship, acknowledged their roles and responsibilities, and made a mutual decision to live together harmoniously.

As counseling progressed, it became evident that the couple was committed to making changes. The applicant’s father also joined one of the sessions, and it was agreed that the husband would be given some time to change his job according to the family’s circumstances and find a suitable place to live. This flexibility allowed them to adjust to new responsibilities and expectations.

The counselor’s mediation and guidance helped the husband introspect. He began to understand the importance of respecting his wife, managing his temper, and fulfilling his role as a husband and father. Both parties agreed that the applicant would return home on their child’s birthday, symbolizing a renewal of their relationship and commitment to family unity.

In the final counseling sessions, the couple showed significant improvement. They communicated more effectively, displayed greater patience, and took increased responsibility for their home and family. The husband acknowledged his mistakes and committed to changing his habits, while the wife expressed her willingness to return home, assured that the situation had improved.

During the final follow-up session, it was evident that both partners had embraced mutual respect, love, and shared responsibilities within the family. They made future plans to improve their lives, focusing on their child’s well-being. It was decided that until their situation stabilized further, the child would stay with the maternal grandmother.

After eight counseling sessions, the couple concluded that their issues had been resolved, and they chose to close the case with a sense of peace and optimism.

This success story is a testament to the effectiveness of counseling and mediation in resolving family disputes. The North West DLSA counselor not only provided legal guidance but also emotional support, helping the couple heal and rebuild their relationship.