Singapore Deputyship & MCA Applications

Deputyship Applications in Singapore – Appointing a Deputy Under the Mental Capacity Act

“PKWA Law offers friendly services and affordable fees in addition to legal excellence.”

– The Straits Times

When someone you care about loses mental capacity without having appointed a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), you may need to pursue a Deputyship Application in Singapore under the Mental Capacity Act (MCA). With PKWA Law, our seasoned deputyship lawyers combine legal expertise with empathy, guiding you clearly through each step while keeping fees transparent and safeguarding your loved one’s interests.

Why Deputyship May Be Necessary

Without an LPA in place, the Family Court can appoint a Deputy to make decisions relating to personal welfare, medical care, and property or financial affairs. This legal safeguard ensures that someone trusted steps in to act in the best interests of the incapacitated person.

What Does Mental Capacity Mean?

Under the MCA, an individual lacks mental capacity if they cannot:

• Understand information relevant to a decision
• Retain that information long enough to make a decision
• Use or weigh that information in decision-making
• Communicate their decisions-verbally, through sign language, or otherwise 

A registered doctor must certify that these criteria are met before the Family Court can consider a deputyship application.

Simplified vs Standard Deputyship Process

Singapore’s judicial system offers two paths:

Simplified Deputyship (via iFAMS):

This is not commonly used, because of the limited orders made:

• Applies when consent is obtained from all relevant parties
• Covers certain limited orders, such as withdrawing up to SGD 80,000 from the individual’s funds
• Typically resolved in 4 to 6 weeks, with filing fees around $40 to $50 (excluding medical or legal fees)

Standard Deputyship (via eLitigation):

This is the more common application, because the orders are more wide ranging:

• Used when the simplified criteria aren’t met or if there are objections or complex matters
• Takes about 3 to 4 months for resolution 
• Filing fees range around $300 to $500, not including professional or medical costs

The Deputy’s Role & Legal Responsibilities

A Deputy, appointed by the Family Court, is typically a close family member or a trusted individual over 21. The deputy may also be a professional appointed to act impartially.

Responsibilities include:

• Acting strictly in the individual’s best interests
• Reporting annually to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), accounting for decisions made and assets managed
• Staying within the powers granted by the court order-whether related to financial affairs, healthcare, or welfare

How PKWA Law Can Help You – Clear, Fixed Fees

At PKWA Law, we combine legal precision with compassionate client service:

• Fixed & transparent fees, so you always know what to expect.
• Recognized by The Straits Times, Benchmark Litigation, Asian Legal Business, Singapore Business Review, and Doyle’s Guide.
• A team of experienced family law and deputyship specialists who ensure clarity, empathy, and strategic rigor from start to finish.

Why Deputyship Matters: Your Family’s Welfare, Our Legal Expertise

Deputyship is more than just a legal process – it is a way of safeguarding the welfare and dignity of someone who can no longer make decisions for themselves. It ensures that important choices are made responsibly and in their best interests, from financial management to healthcare and daily care arrangements.

At PKWA Law, we provide clear guidance and steady support so that your family can focus on caring for your loved one while we handle all the legal complexities.

Start with a Complimentary Consultation Today

Let us help you understand your unique situation and map out the right approach, whether that’s the simplified or standard process. Our free initial consultation is designed to provide you with clarity and peace of mind.

Contact us at:

• Tel: +65 6854 5336
• Whatapp: +65 9090 3158
• Email: enquiry@pkwalaw.com