Divorce is a life-changing decision and understanding the
legal steps involved can make the journey less overwhelming. In Singapore, the
divorce process is governed by the Women’s Charter and involves both emotional
and legal considerations. Whether you're contemplating divorce or are already
in the early stages, this step-by-step guide outlines what you need to know.
If you’re seeking professional guidance, Singapore Sole Parent, a trusted divorce law firm, offers compassionate legal support tailored to your needs.
Step 1: Ensure Eligibility for Divorce in Singapore
Before starting the divorce
process, you must meet specific criteria:
- You
must be legally married for at least 3 years (exceptions apply in cases of
extreme hardship).
- Either
spouse must be a Singapore Citizen, domiciled in Singapore, or have
resided in Singapore for at least 3 years.
- You
must have legal grounds for divorce (irretrievable breakdown of marriage).
Step 2: Understand the Grounds for Divorce
The court will only grant a divorce if there is an
irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, proven through one of these facts:
- Adultery
- Unreasonable
behaviour
- Desertion
for at least 2 years
- Separation
for 3 years (with consent) or 4 years (without consent)
A qualified Singapore divorce lawyer can help
determine the most suitable grounds based on your situation.
Step 3: Engage a Divorce Lawyer in Singapore
Engaging a reliable divorce lawyer in Singapore, like
those at Singapore Sole Parent, ensures that your rights are protected
throughout the process. They will help:
- Draft
your divorce papers
- Advise
on child custody and asset division
- Represent
you in court if necessary
Step 4: File the Divorce Documents
The divorce process officially begins when the Writ
for Divorce and other supporting documents are filed with the Family
Justice Courts. These documents include:
- Statement
of Claim
- Statement
of Particulars
- Proposed
Parenting Plan (if you have children)
- Proposed
Matrimonial Property Plan (if you own a flat or property)
Your divorce law firm will assist in preparing and
filing these documents accurately.
Step 5: Serve the Divorce Papers
Once filed, the documents must be served to your spouse within
14 days if they are in Singapore (or 21 days if overseas). If your spouse
agrees to the divorce, the process is generally faster and is considered uncontested.
Step 6: Attend Court Hearings (if Contested)
In contested divorces, both parties will be required to
attend case conferences and hearings. The court will attempt to resolve
disputes, especially concerning:
- Child
custody, care, and control
- Division
of matrimonial assets
- Maintenance
(spousal and child)
Having an experienced Singapore divorce lawyer is
crucial at this stage to present your case effectively.
Step 7: Receive the Interim Judgment
If the court is satisfied that the marriage has
irretrievably broken down, it will issue an Interim Judgment. This is a
temporary order declaring the parties legally separated but not yet divorced.
Step 8: Settle Ancillary Matters
The next stage involves resolving ancillary matters
such as:
- Division
of HDB flat and other assets
- Custody
and maintenance of children
- Alimony
or spousal support
Your divorce lawyer in Singapore will negotiate on
your behalf or represent you in Ancillary Matters Hearings if needed.
Step 9: Final Judgment and Divorce Completion
After settling all ancillary matters and a mandatory 3-month
waiting period (from Interim Judgment), the Final Judgment is issued, legally
ending the marriage.
Why Choose Singapore Sole Parent?
Singapore Sole Parent is a dedicated divorce law firm with a
team of experienced family lawyers who understand the emotional and legal
complexities of divorce. Whether your case is straightforward or complicated,
their expertise ensures that your interests—and those of your children—are
protected every step of the way.
Conclusion
Understanding the divorce process in Singapore can help reduce the stress of separation and allow you to make informed decisions. Engaging a trusted divorce lawyer in Singapore, like those at Singapore Sole Parent, ensures a smoother, more supportive legal journey as you begin the next chapter of your life.