What is the ruling on compelling a wife to relinquish her rights before her divorce?

It is not permissible for the husband to take anything from his wife's money, including her dower (mahr) money, except with her willing consent. An exception to this is if the wife commits a clear abomination, as Allah Almighty says: (But if they themselves are pleased to give up to you a portion of it, take it and enjoy it with pleasure and ease) and His saying: (And do not treat them harshly in order to take away part of what you have given them, unless they commit a clear abomination).

Scholars have unanimously agreed on the prohibition of taking the wife's money unless the discord and marital misconduct originate from her. A clear abomination includes adultery, ill-treatment, and verbal abuse.