Going through a divorce can be emotionally exhausting and
legally confusing. Whether the decision is mutual or contested, knowing the
exact steps involved in the divorce process in Singapore can help you make
informed choices. At Singapore Sole Parent, we believe in empowering
individuals with the right knowledge and the legal support of the top divorce
lawyers in Singapore.
Here is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to the divorce procedure in Singapore, from filing to the final judgment.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before initiating the divorce process, you must meet the
basic legal criteria in Singapore:
- You
or your spouse must be domiciled in Singapore or have resided here for
at least 3 years before filing.
- The
marriage must be at least 3 years old, unless there are exceptional
circumstances of hardship or cruelty.
Step 2: Determine the Grounds for Divorce
The only ground for divorce in Singapore is the irretrievable
breakdown of the marriage, proven through one of five facts:
- Adultery
- Unreasonable
behaviour
- Desertion
for at least two years
- Separation
for three years (with consent)
- Separation
for four years (without consent)
Your divorce lawyer in Singapore will help you select
the most appropriate ground based on your situation.
Step 3: Filing the Writ for Divorce
The process begins legally when you file the following
documents in the Family Justice Courts:
- Writ
of Divorce
- Statement
of Claim (stating the ground for divorce)
- Statement
of Particulars (details of the case)
- Proposed
Parenting Plan (if children are involved)
- Proposed
Matrimonial Property Plan (if a HDB flat or property is involved)
This is where having one of the top
divorce lawyers in Singapore becomes crucial. They ensure all documents
are prepared accurately and comply with legal standards.
Step 4: Mediation and Case Conference
For uncontested cases or those involving children, the court
may direct parties to attend mandatory mediation or counselling.
Mediation aims to reach agreements on:
- Child
custody
- Maintenance
- Division
of assets
If mediation fails, the case proceeds to trial for contested
matters.
Step 5: Interim Judgment
Once the court is satisfied that the marriage has broken
down irretrievably, an Interim Judgment (temporary divorce order) is
granted.
This typically happens within a few months for uncontested
divorces. For contested cases, it may take 6–12 months depending on complexity
and court schedules.
Step 6: Ancillary Matters Hearing
This is the second stage of the divorce process, where the
court decides on:
- Division
of matrimonial assets
- Custody,
care, and control of children
- Spousal
and child maintenance
- Visitation
and access rights
This hearing can involve multiple rounds if parties
disagree. A skilled divorce lawyer in Singapore will advocate on your
behalf for a fair outcome.
Step 7: Final Judgment of Divorce
Three months after the Interim Judgment, and once all
ancillary matters are settled, the court will issue the Final Judgment,
legally ending the marriage.
You are now officially divorced.
Why Choose Singapore Sole Parent?
As a leading divorce law firm in
Singapore, Singapore Sole Parent is dedicated to offering compassionate
guidance and expert representation. Our team of experienced lawyers are
regarded among the top divorce lawyers in Singapore, known for:
- Strategic
legal counsel
- Successful
outcomes in complex cases
- Clear
communication and transparent fees
- Supporting
clients with empathy and professionalism
Conclusion
Divorce is never easy, but with the right support, it
doesn't have to be overwhelming. By understanding each step and working with a
trusted legal team, you can navigate the divorce process with clarity and
confidence.
Let Singapore Sole Parent be your legal ally during this transition. Speak to a professional divorce lawyer in Singapore today and take the first step toward a new beginning.