Family Law

Divorce & Separation

Clear guidance through a difficult transition. We help you understand your options, protect your interests, and move forward with confidence.

Deciding to end a marriage is rarely simple. We understand the weight of this moment and the uncertainty that follows. Our approach is to listen first, advise second, and act with discretion always. Every case receives personal attention from experienced lawyers — never junior-only handling.

Personal attention from experienced lawyers, every step of the way.

The Process

The Divorce Process: An Overview

Divorce in Singapore follows a clear legal framework. Understanding the stages helps reduce uncertainty and prepares you for what lies ahead.

Stage 1: Dissolution of Marriage

The court first determines whether the marriage has broken down irretrievably. This stage concludes with the Interim Judgment — a conditional order of divorce.

  • Filing the Writ for Divorce
  • Statement of Claim and Statement of Particulars
  • Temporary orders if needed (maintenance, custody)
  • Interim Judgment granted

Stage 2: Ancillary Matters

After the Interim Judgment, the court addresses practical arrangements. This stage must be resolved before the divorce is finalized.

  • Division of matrimonial assets
  • Custody, care and control, and access arrangements
  • Maintenance for wife and children
  • Final Judgment granted (typically 3 months after Interim)
Your Options

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

Understanding the difference helps set realistic expectations about timeline, cost, and the level of court involvement.

Uncontested

Uncontested Divorce

Both parties agree on the divorce and all ancillary matters. This is the most straightforward path, minimizing conflict and uncertainty.

  • Faster resolution — typically a matter of months
  • More cost-predictable, often handled on a fixed-fee basis
  • Less adversarial, preserving working relationships where needed
  • Minimal court attendance required
Contested

Contested Divorce

Parties disagree on grounds or ancillary matters, requiring court adjudication. Even difficult cases benefit from measured, strategic advocacy.

  • Requires formal court proceedings and evidence
  • Longer timeline, depending on complexity and court schedule
  • Billed on an hourly basis with regular cost updates
  • Strategic preparation to protect your interests at every stage
Step by Step

Stage-by-Stage: What to Expect

A clear view of each phase, what we handle, and what you will need to prepare.

1 Filing the Writ for Divorce

We prepare and file the Writ for Divorce, Statement of Claim, and Statement of Particulars with the Family Justice Courts. These documents set out the grounds and facts supporting the divorce.

What you need: Marriage certificate, particulars of both parties, and a clear account of the circumstances leading to the breakdown.

Timeline: Documents can typically be prepared within 1–2 weeks once instructions are confirmed.

2 Statement of Claim & Particulars

The Statement of Claim outlines the legal basis for divorce, while the Statement of Particulars provides the factual details. Accuracy and clarity here are essential — they shape the court's understanding of your position.

Our role: We draft these with precision, ensuring your account is presented fairly and comprehensively.

3 Temporary Orders (If Needed)

Where urgent arrangements are needed — such as interim maintenance, custody, or access orders — we can apply for temporary orders to protect your interests and those of your children pending final resolution.

4 Interim Judgment

Once the court is satisfied the marriage has broken down irretrievably, the Interim Judgment is granted. This is a conditional divorce order. You are not yet fully divorced — ancillary matters must still be resolved.

5 Ancillary Matters

The court addresses division of matrimonial assets, custody and access arrangements, and maintenance. This is often the most substantive phase, requiring full financial disclosure and careful negotiation.

What you need: Comprehensive financial documents, property valuations, and proposals for children's care arrangements.

6 Final Judgment

Once all ancillary matters are resolved, the Final Judgment is granted — typically three months after the Interim Judgment. At this point, the marriage is legally dissolved.

Getting Started

Your First Consultation

The initial meeting is a confidential discussion of your circumstances. We listen to understand your priorities, assess the grounds and approach, and outline the likely timeline and considerations specific to your situation.

There is no obligation, no pressure, and full confidentiality. Our aim is to give you clarity so you can make informed decisions about your next steps.

Book a Confidential Consultation
Fees & Transparency

Clear Fee Structures

We believe you should understand costs before committing to any significant step. No hidden charges, no surprises.

Uncontested Divorce

Where both parties agree on all matters, we typically work on a fixed-fee basis. This gives you cost certainty from the outset.

Contact us to discuss your situation and receive a tailored fee estimate.

Contested Matters

Where disputes require court adjudication, we bill on an hourly basis with regular cost updates at each stage.

You will always know where costs stand before we proceed to the next phase.

Initial Consultation

A confidential first meeting to assess your situation and outline your options. Fees are discussed when you book.

There is no obligation to proceed after the consultation.

Specific fees depend on the complexity of your case. We provide detailed estimates after understanding your circumstances.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers to concerns we hear most often.

How long does a divorce take in Singapore?

An uncontested divorce typically takes 4 to 6 months from filing to Final Judgment. A contested divorce may take 12 months or longer, depending on complexity and court availability.

Do I need to prove fault to get divorced?

The sole ground is irretrievable breakdown of marriage. While some facts involve conduct (such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour), separation-based facts do not require proof of fault.

What happens to our HDB flat or property?

Matrimonial assets, including HDB flats, are divided equitably based on each party's direct and indirect contributions. The court considers financial contributions, non-financial contributions such as homemaking, and the needs of any children.

Can I get maintenance?

The court may order maintenance for a wife and children where appropriate. Factors include each party's income and earning capacity, financial needs, and the standard of living during the marriage.

What if my spouse doesn't agree to the divorce?

If your spouse contests the divorce, the court will hear evidence and decide whether the marriage has broken down irretrievably. We prepare your case thoroughly and represent your interests throughout the proceedings.

Will I have to go to court?

Uncontested divorces typically require minimal or no court attendance. Contested matters involve court hearings, though we guide you through each appearance and prepare you for what to expect.

You don't need to navigate this alone.

Every conversation is confidential. We bring years of experience in Singapore family law, and we are here to help you understand your options with clarity and care.