IslamicAnswers.com: Islamic Advice

Salam,

My mother used to tell me my name was of Muslim origin although I'm a Catholic. Her best friend who is a Muslim named me at birth. bearing this in mind I searched for the religion at internet sites and got interested.

I will be converting and embracing the faith this year 2015 so I can get a fresh start. In 2005 I was civily married. In 2009 my husband ceased giving support to our kids, blocked me of networking sites and never communicated with me.

During our time together he physically abused me, hitting me and my kids, almost killed us because of his temper. This gave me insecurities as a woman.

I heard he is with someone else now in another country. I would like to have the freedom to get my Maiden Family name back and the freedom to remarry in the future if Allah permits. I've read that Islam faith give Women the choice to keep their maiden name even if they are married.

Can I file a divorce under Sharia Law if the marriage union is not of Muslim rites? I am a Filipina residing in the Philippines. Marriage also took place in the Philippines.

There's no annulment grounds for our marriage since battery and absence is not a valid ground for annulment. I cannot live so miserably tied in a union where my partner is not communicating and not supporting the family. I've been working for the family since 2005.

I like to be free from any bond that will hinder me from practicing my faith in the future. I hope I will be able to get a light into this INSHAALLAH.

Roselaine