Duration of filing, summons n whole procedure of maintenance case & mediation

Dear Client, if the wife files a maintenance case and both parties later agree to settle the matter through mediation and proceed with a mutual consent divorce, the overall timeline can vary significantly depending on the court, the speed of service of summons, the parties' cooperation, and whether the court is willing to waive the cooling-off period. It is therefore difficult to give a fixed minimum or maximum time. 

As regards a one-time settlement, there is no fixed formula. The amount depends on several factors, including the husband's income, the wife's financial condition, the duration of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, and other relevant circumstances. 

With a salary of ₹50,000 per month, an unemployed wife, and no children, the settlement amount would ultimately be a matter of negotiation or judicial determination based on the facts of the case. As for filing a case under Section 9 of the Hindu Marriage Act or alleging desertion after about five years of separation, the husband is legally entitled to take such steps if advised, but whether such proceedings would succeed or serve any practical purpose will depend on the facts, particularly if the wife had valid reasons for living separately. In many cases involving long periods of separation, a negotiated settlement and mutual consent divorce may prove more practical if both parties are willing. 

Hope this helps. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any further queries or need assistance.