Concluding a marriage contract in writing only

Q: I am a Muslim man from Maghrib who married an Egyptian woman. According to the Egyptian regulations related to marrying a foreigner, the marriage contract is concluded by an Egyptian lawyer whom the husband chooses. My marriage contract was concluded in the following way:A marriage document was filled out by the lawyer in accordance with the Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet) and based on Abu Hanifah's Madh-hab (School of Jurisprudence). This happened in the presence of the couple, the bride's parents, and two witnesses. Having concluded the writing of the contract, the lawyer read it (Part No. 18; Page No. 86) to the attendants who agreed to the conditions referred to therein. The contract was then signed by the couple, the bride's parents, the two witnesses, and the lawyer and was later documented at the Egyptian court. The lawyer who concluded the marriage did not ask the bride's father to express Ijab (a pillar of the marriage contract: a willing offer of marriage expressed by the bride's guardian) by saying, "I give you my daughter in marriage" nor did he ask me to express Qubul (a pillar of the marriage contract: a willing acceptance expressed by the groom) by saying, "I accept to have her as my wife". It is a year now since we have been married; and we are leading a perfect family life.Is this marriage valid or is it Batil (null and void)? Do I have to conclude a new marriage contract? If the marriage is Batil, what is the kind of Kaffarah (expiation) required of the couple? Please enlighten us. May Allah reward you best!

A: It is obligatory that a new marriage contract be concluded, as merely signing the contract is not sufficient to effectuate it. The Waliy (a legally accountable person acting for a woman regarding marriage) has to express Ijab and the husband has to express Qubul using any wording. The marriage that has been concluded is considered Batil and all the parties have to make Tawbah (repentance to Allah). (Part No. 18; Page No. 87) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.