Divorce in Singapore: Common Divorce Questions

As one of Singapore`s largest matrimonial law departments, lawyers at Gloria James-Civetta & Co, have the experience required to obtain the best outcomes for your divorce.  Our experienced divorce lawyers provide honest advice based on your individual circumstances.

1) What is required to file a divorce in Singapore?

To file a Writ for divorce in Singapore, you must have been married for at least 3 years. You must also be able to prove that your marriage has broken down irretrievably.

You or your spouse must also be domiciled in Singapore before the commencement of the divorce proceedings. This means that either you or your spouse must have lived in Singapore for at least 3 years before commencing divorce proceedings.

2) How long does it take to complete a divorce?

Interim Judgment for an uncontested divorce can be obtained within 2 to 3 months from the commencement of divorce proceedings. It will take another 3 months for the final judgment of divorce to be obtained. Hence, an uncontested divorce can be completed within 5 to 6 months.

However, a contested divorce will take longer, especially if ancillary details cannot be agreed on. You can contact divorce lawyers to get more individualized advice as the amount of time taken to complete a divorce varies from case to case.

3) How long is the divorce process?

The length of the divorce process varies on a case by case basis; you can consider contacting a Singapore divorce lawyer to get personalized advice on your divorce.

4) Am I entitled to Spousal support?

In Singapore, according to Section 113 of the Women’s Charter, the court may order the husband to pay maintenance to his wife/ex-wife either during the granting or subsequent to the grant of a judgment of divorce, judicial separation or nullity of marriage.  The court will take into account all the circumstances of the case in assessing the maintenance amount for the wife/ex-wife.

Unfortunately, there is no corresponding obligation under Singapore law for the wife to pay maintenance to her husband/ex-husband.

5) What is child support?

Child support is an ongoing, periodic payment made by a parent for the financial benefit of a child following the end of a marriage or other relationship. Under the law, it is the duty of a parent to maintain or contribute to the maintenance of his or her children, regardless of whether they are legitimate or illegitimate.

6) How does a court determine how our assets are divided?

The court will consider the extent of contribution to assets by both parties through direct or indirection contributions. The courts will also consider the needs of the children of the marriage, if any, the financial independence of parties after divorce and many other factors. You may wish to contact a professional divorce lawyer to better understand the multitude of factors the courts consider in determining how matrimonial assets are divided.

Gloria James-Civetta & Co (“GJC Law”), is an established Law Firm. We can help you, no matter what situation you’re in.

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