Matrimonial Divorce

Divorce in Singapore can be straightforward if both parties agree.

Here is a clear breakdown of what you need to know. 

– Who can file for divorce? 

You must have been married for at least 3 years, AND meet at least one of the following requirements : 

• At least one spouse is a Singapore citizen, OR 

• You and your spouse have lived in Singapore for a continuous period of at least 3 years 

– Grounds of divorce 

A marriage may be shown to have broken down irretrievably through one of more of the following grounds:  

• Adultery 
• Unreasonable behaviour 
• Desertion 
• 3 years separation with consent 
• 4 years separation without consent 
• Mutual agreement to divorce 

– Types of divorce 

There are two types: 

• Uncontested Divorce 

Both parties agree on grounds and ancillary matters. Usually cheaper and faster (about 3–6 months) 

• Contested Divorce 

There are disagreements on the grounds and/or ancillary matters. Usually more expensive and longer (9–18 months or more) 

We are seeing more uncontested divorces where parties part amicably and where there are children of the marriage, they have decided to put their children’s interests before their own. 

– What are ancillary issues? 

• Custody of children, if any 
• Day-to-day care and control of the children, if any 
• Access by one spouse to the children, if any 
• Child maintenance, where applicable 
• Spousal maintenance, where applicable 
• Division of matrimonial assets (property, car, bank accounts, company shares) 
• Other related matters 

– How long does it take? 

 Uncontested cases: 

• About 3 to 6 months from filing of papers to grant of Interim Judgment 
• 3 months from Interim Judgment before filing for Final Judgment 

 Contested cases: 

• From 12 months onwards, depending on areas of dispute 

– How to begin 

 Message us with a few basic details: 

• Year of marriage 
• Any children? 
• Do both parties agree to divorce? 
• Have both parties agreed on the ancillary terms? 

We will reply with: 

• Whether uncontested divorce is possible 
• Estimated cost 
• Next steps 

– Why clients choose us 

• We prioritise your child’s interests 
• Clear and simple explanation of complex issues 
• Transparent pricing 
• Direct communication with lawyers