A Nikah – an Islamic marriage contract – has to fulfil certain requirements to be considered binding under Islamic law, one of which is the Mahr. A Mahr is a sum of money, jewelry, or any other valuable assets that is given by the groom to the wife as security in case of a breakdown in their relationship or death of the husband. The amount specified in the marriage contract and/or the property to be gifted may vary depending on many things, including the wealth of the groom. That gift becomes the wife’s exclusive property.

Muslim Link asked lawyer Karine Devost, who practices in the area of family law, to briefly explain the importance of making sure you have a will if you live in Ontario.