Sections 9 , ___ of the Act lays down the procedure to be followed by the Family Courts. Section 9 makes provision as to the duty of Family Courts to make efforts for settlement and conciliation. Section 23 (2) of The Hindu Marriage Act also refers to the duty of the court to bring about reconciliation between the parties at dispute before the Family Courts. If it appears to the court, that there is a possibility of settlement in a dispute, the court shall adjourn the proceedings till such time as the settlement is arrived at.
The Family Court is also authorized by the Act to lay down its own procedure in order to arrive at a settlement in respect of the subject matter of the suit or proceedings. However, the parties in a proceeding before a family court shall not be entitled as of right to be represented by a legal practitioner. However, they are entitled to appoint an "amicus curiae" to assist them in the settlement of disputes. |
