My father left the family and has been unreachable for years. Who will be my wali?

If your father truly cannot be traced, the religious office will decide whether another paternal guardian (wali nasab) or a judge-appointed guardian (wali hakim) will marry you off. This situation has to be proven, not merely stated. Gather anything that shows the effort made to find your father, such as unanswered messages or statements from relatives. Take these documents to the marriage officer at the state Islamic religious affairs office. In some cases, the Syariah Court must make an order before a wali hakim is appointed. Start this process well before the wedding date because it takes time. Your feelings about your father also deserve room; talk to a counsellor if old wounds are reopened. See what a wali hakim is.