Under Sri Lankan law, a Magistrate may remand a suspect for a maximum of 15 days at a time. Bail is considered the rule and refusal the exception. The Magistrate evaluates factors such as the progress of investigations, possible interference with witnesses, the risk of reoffending, and potential public reaction before deciding on bail.

No. Unlawful possession gives rise to a legal dispute. A person occupying a property by force cannot retain possession indefinitely. The lawful owner or occupant may seek recovery of possession through a competent court, which will order the eviction of the unlawful occupier.

Yes. Under the Maintenance Act No. 37 of 1999, either spouse—husband or wife—may claim maintenance if they are unable to maintain themselves. This reflects a progressive shift toward equality and fairness in Sri Lankan family law.

Yes. The Court of Appeal in case CA/Writ/266/2021 (decided on 18.09.2023) recognized that certain foreign divorce decrees can be enforceable in Sri Lanka. This reflects growing judicial acknowledgment of international judgments, provided due process and fairness were observed abroad.

No. Sri Lankan law does not allow divorce purely by mutual consent. A divorce can be granted only on one of three grounds: (1) adultery after marriage, (2) malicious desertion, or (3) incurable impotency at the time of marriage. Even if both parties agree to separate, a court must base the decree on one of these grounds.

Yes. Every person who is arrested or called for inquiry has a fundamental right to be represented by a lawyer. This right is guaranteed under the Constitution of Sri Lanka, ensuring legal assistance from the earliest stage of a police investigation.