DAMPAK PERCERAIAN DI BAWAH TANGAN DAN AKIBAT HUKUMNYA

Abstract

This study aims to explore the underlying causes of underhand divorce, its legal and social consequences, and how the community of Sungai Manau District perceives this practice. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, the research utilized fieldwork methods including interviews and documentation. The findings reveal that underhand divorces remain prevalent, primarily due to limited legal awareness, the dominance of customary settlements, and weak roles of both government and religious institutions. Legally, such divorces result in unclear status for women and children, loss of civil rights such as maintenance and inheritance, and difficulty in obtaining official documents. Socially, they lead to stigma, family disintegration, and emotional instability in children. This research recommends enhancing legal literacy and improving access to affordable legal services in rural areas.