For many clients at PKWA Law, one of the first and most pressing questions is: “How much will my divorce cost?”
The cost of a divorce in Singapore varies depending on whether the divorce is uncontested or contested. Below, we break down the typical fee ranges and the key factors that affect the overall cost.
Uncontested Divorce: Typically $1,500 – $3,500
An uncontested divorce is one where both parties agree on all key issues, including the grounds for divorce and the ancillary matters (such as division of assets, child custody, and maintenance). Because of the agreement between both spouses, these cases are generally quicker, simpler, and more cost-effective.
Typical fees:
- Without children or property: From $1,500 to $2,000
- With children or property: From $2,000 to $3,500
Its important to note that advertised fees may not be fixed. At PKWA Law, we offer fixed-fee uncontested divorce packages to provide clients with cost certainty and peace of mind.
Contested Divorce: From $10,000 Upwards
A contested divorce occurs when parties cannot agree on the divorce itself or on one or more ancillary matters. These cases often require multiple rounds of negotiation, mediation, affidavits, and court hearings, which significantly increase legal costs.
Typical starting range: Contested divorce fees generally begin from $10,000, but there is no fixed upper limit. The final cost depends on the complexity of the issues, the number of disputes, and the length of proceedings. In particularly complex or high-asset cases, fees can exceed $35,000.
Factors Affecting Divorce Costs
The overall cost of divorce depends on:
The Family Justice Courts strongly encourage parties to resolve matters through mediation, which often reduces both legal fees and emotional strain.
Legal Aid and Mediation
Some clients may be eligible for assistance through the Legal Aid Bureau, depending on their income and circumstances.
Separately, the Family Justice Courts strongly encourage parties to resolve disputes through mediation. Mediation helps spouses reach agreements on issues like custody, maintenance, and division of assets without a full trial. Settling through mediation often saves time, legal costs, and emotional stress, and in many cases, the Court may direct parties to attend mediation sessions as part of the process.
Contact PKWA Law today
At PKWA Law, we believe in transparent, fixed-fee pricing and practical legal solutions. Our family lawyers are consistently ranked among Singapore’s leading divorce specialists. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, we provide clear guidance and strong representation every step of the way.
Contact us today to find out more about our fixed-fee packages and how we can help you navigate your divorce with clarity and confidence.
Frequently asked questions
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Who pays for the divorce in Singapore – can I ask my spouse to cover the costs?
Generally, each party bears their own legal fees. However, in contested divorces, the Court has discretion to order the losing party to pay part or all of the other party’s legal costs.
Does the division of assets affect how much the divorce will cost?
Yes. The more complex the pool of matrimonial assets (e.g., multiple properties, overseas accounts, family businesses), the more work is required to prepare valuations, affidavits, and submissions, which increases costs.
How much do private investigators (PIs) cost in divorce cases?
If you are relying on adultery as the ground for divorce, you often need evidence from a licensed PI. PI fees in Singapore typically range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of surveillance. These fees are separate from legal fees.Because PI work can be costly, many clients instead rely on “unreasonable behaviour” as the ground for divorce, which does not require PI evidence. This is also the most common ground for divorce in Singapore, as it is often easier and less expensive to prove..
What is the difference between fixed fees and time-cost fees in divorce cases?
Fixed Fees are by their very definition matters in which the fees are fixed. By contrast, time-costed fees are billed by the hour and are the most common type of fees charged by law firms in Singapore. The more complex and drawn-out the case, the higher the total legal bill will be. That’s why it is better to engage a lawyer who charges fixed fees so that you can have peace of mind.
Why do so many lawyers charge time costs for contested divorces?
Contested divorces often involve multiple court hearings, affidavits, negotiations, and sometimes even appeals. Because the scope of work can expand depending on how the other party responds, lawyers charge by time spent (often between S$350 to S$900 per hour in Singapore). This ensures that clients only pay for the actual work required, though it can be more expensive than a fixed fee.
Are there any extra fees I should be aware of?
Reputable firms will not impose “hidden fees.” However, legal costs may increase if the case becomes more complex than expected - for example, if an uncontested divorce turns contested, or urgent applications are required. At PKWA Law, we keep our fees fixed and transparent for uncontested cases, so you know exactly what you’re paying from the start. Any additional costs (if they arise) are always discussed with you in advance, so there are no surprises.
Can mediation help reduce divorce costs?
Yes. Mediation is strongly encouraged by the Family Justice Courts and can save significant legal costs. By resolving disputes through mediation, couples often avoid expensive contested trials. This makes the divorce process faster, less adversarial, and more affordable.
What other factors affect divorce costs?
- Whether there are children under 21 (custody and maintenance issues add complexity).
- Whether children issues are acrimonious
- Whether there is an HDB flat or other high-value matrimonial property.
- The number of assets and accounts that need to be divided.
- The level of conflict between spouses (e.g., high-conflict divorces usually cost more).
- Whether there are overseas assets
- Whether assets need to be traced.
- Whether assets need to be valued.
- The urgency of the work.
- Whether injuctions are required.
Are there ways to manage or reduce divorce costs?
- Explore mediation early.
- Stay open to settlement on major issues.
- Prepare documents and financial records clearly.
- Engage a lawyer who offers clear, fixed fees where possible.
