Q: My mother has been suffering from mental abuse by my father from as long as I can remember. Even now, she continues to bear his behaviour for the sake of our wellbeing. There have also been instances of physical violence in the past. Whenever things go against my father's wish or will, things get ugly verbally. He doesn't resort to physical violence anymore, probably because I'm a 26-year-old male adult now and he knows I will defend her as I have clearly indicated it to him. I would like to ask two things: 1) Is mental abuse considered as abuse within UAE law? 2) If yes, can I seek any legal action against my father on behalf of my mother? Because she won't speak up as it may jeopardise our wellbeing.

Q: Hello Sir, 2 yrs back I married an Indian guy who is living in Sharjah from 27yrs. After our marriage, I was living with him and his family. Due to domestic violence and mental harassment 3 months back he left me in India and get my passport with him. So, can I file a complaint against him in Sharjah police station and what will they do? Please advise me.

Q: My husband physically abused me and I went to do a medical report. Do I have to open a criminal case against him or I can use the medical report only in Dubai Court?

Q: Dear Sir/Madam, I am an Arab expatriate woman living in the UAE, sponsored by my company on a work visa. I live with my oppressive family and I want to move out and live independently. Can my father legally attempt to force me to come back? Does the law protect me from potential abuse from my parents following this decision? Can they file a missing persons report, and what are the consequences of that? Can I file a restraining order, and does that guarantee they won't approach me? I would really appreciate your help. My living situation is unbearable and I need to leave this household for the sake of my mental and physical wellbeing.

Q: Dear Sir/Madam, I am a 21-year-old female residing in the UAE. I have a job and am capable of supporting myself. I want to move out of my family's home because I am experiencing mental torture, and I no longer wish to live with them. I have a 13-year-old brother who does not attend to school due to my parents. Is there a way for me to move out of the house with my brother?

An interview-format article covering the topic of the legal & psychological effects of COVID-19 on marriage. This is from the legal podcast of lawyer Ludmila Yamalova, the founder of Lawgical with LYLAW.

UAE Personal Status Law (also known as Personal Affairs Law) governs marriage, divorce, inheritance and other personal affairs in the United Arab Emirates. The law equally applies to citizens of the UAE and non-citizens unless one of them asks for the application of his home country law.