Matrimonial/Family
Steady guidance through divorce, children and the arrangements that follow.
General information on family law in Singapore, not legal advice. For advice on your own circumstances, speak with one of our lawyers.
What we handle
The matters below are the ones we regularly handle. Where we can, we explore ways to resolve a disagreement before going to court.
- Adoption/Guardianship
- Deed of Separation
- Divorce/Annulment/Judicial Separation
- Division of Assets
- Enforcement/Variation of Maintenance Orders
- Personal Protection Order
- Variation of Court Orders
Fees
Fees depend on the scope of the matter. Ask us for a quote.
| Initial consultationReviewing your situation and explaining the options open to you. | On enquiry |
|---|---|
| Uncontested divorceWhere both spouses agree on the divorce and its arrangements. | On enquiry |
| Contested proceedingsDivorce, children or asset disputes decided by the court. | On enquiry |
Where to start
Call us or email a short outline of your matter, and we will tell you the next step.
Common questions
How do I start a divorce in Singapore?
You must usually have been married for at least three years. You then show the court that the marriage has broken down irretrievably, by proving one of six facts, including divorce by mutual agreement. The case runs in two stages: an Interim Judgment, then a Final Judgment once arrangements for children and finances are settled.
Read the full guide →What is the difference between a simplified and a contested divorce?
A divorce is uncontested when both spouses agree to it, and it can go on the simplified track. It is contested when the court has to decide disputed issues. Often the divorce itself is agreed and only the children, maintenance or assets are argued over.
Read the full guide →Can we separate without divorcing?
Yes. A deed of separation is a private agreement setting the terms of living apart. Judicial separation is a court order that you no longer have to live together. Neither ends the marriage, so neither spouse can remarry. Annulment is different: it declares that the marriage was never valid.
Read the full guide →How are assets divided in a divorce?
The court divides the matrimonial assets in proportions it considers just and equitable, not automatically 50:50. In a marriage where both spouses worked, it usually weighs each spouse's financial and non-financial contributions. In a long marriage with one breadwinner and one homemaker, the division tends to lean towards equal.
Read the full guide →Who gets custody of the children?
The child's welfare comes first. Courts usually give both parents joint custody, so both share major decisions. Care and control, meaning who the child lives with day to day, usually goes to one parent, and the other has access to spend time with the child.
Read the full guide →How does maintenance work, and what if it isn't paid?
Both parents must maintain their children, usually until 21. A wife, or a husband who is incapacitated, can claim maintenance from their spouse. The court looks at needs, incomes and the standard of living. Orders can be varied if circumstances change, and unpaid maintenance can be enforced through the court.
Read the full guide →How do I get a Personal Protection Order?
You apply to the Family Justice Courts for an order protecting you or a family member from family violence. You must show that family violence has been, or is likely to be, committed and that the order is necessary for protection. An Expedited Order can give temporary protection while the application is heard.
Read the full guide →Still have a question? Ask us directly.
Have questions?
Send us a quick note below and let's figure things out together.