Legal Question in Family Law in Indiana

Forced Marriage

My girlfriend is Muslim, by force of course. Her parents are determined to make her marry someone she doesn't want to. As a matter of fact, she doesn't even know this person. She is only 17, so that gives her parents rights over certain things, right? I honestly don't see how it gives them rights over marriage, because this is the rest of her life they're playing with. Muslim or not, I don't think her parents should be able to do what they're doing. And I would really appreciate a response from this. *time is of the essence*


Asked on 4/16/04, 12:08 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Mary Ann Wunder Wunder & Wunder

Re: Forced Marriage

A person under 18 is subject to the control of his or her parents. The family being Muslim makes no difference. It may be customary for members of this family to do as the parents bid and until and unless she is 18 you have no right to suggest she do anything other than comply with what her parents desire. Once she is 18, she has the sole right to make her own choices. Caveat: this assumes she is an American citizen. Our rules do not necessarily apply to foregin nationals. Be sure who you are dealing with.

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Answered on 4/16/04, 12:30 pm


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