Singapore Divorce Lawyers

The only ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage under the Women’s Charter. This can be proven by one of six facts:

• Adultery
• Unreasonable behaviour
• Desertion for at least 2 years
• Separation for 3 years (with consent)
• Separation for 4 years (without consent)
• Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) – introduced on 1 July 2024, allowing couples to jointly agree that the marriage has broken down without needing to prove fault.

DMA is a new, no-fault divorce option in Singapore. Both spouses must agree that the marriage has irretrievably broken down and file a written agreement setting out:

• Why they believe the marriage cannot continue
• Efforts at reconciliation
• Proposed arrangements for children and finances

The Court must be satisfied that the agreement is fair before granting the divorce. DMA reduces blame and conflict and is designed to give couples a more amicable way to separate.

Yes. Adultery is one of the recognised facts to show irretrievable breakdown of a marriage. The spouse filing must show that adultery occurred and that it is intolerable to continue living with the other party. Evidence is usually required, such as private investigator reports, messages, or clear admissions.

To use adultery as a ground for divorce:

• You must file within 6 months from the date you found out about the adultery.
• If you continued to live with your spouse for more than 6 months after discovering the adultery, the Court may consider that you condoned the act. In that case, you cannot rely on adultery as your ground for divorce.

If there is not enough evidence for adultery, you may still rely on unreasonable behaviour. For example, unexplained overnight absences, close relationships with a third party, or neglect of the marriage may be sufficient for the Court to find unreasonable behaviour.

The Court’s primary concern is the welfare of the child. Custody (long-term decision-making authority) is usually joint, while care and control (day-to-day living arrangements) may be awarded to one parent. The other parent is typically granted access rights. Parents with children under 21 must also attend the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (MCPP) before filing for divorce.

Matrimonial assets generally refer to property or wealth accumulated by either spouse during the marriage. In some cases, assets acquired before the marriage may also be included - particularly where they were significantly enhanced in value or maintained through the efforts of one or both parties during the marriage.

All matrimonial assets - including properties, CPF monies, savings, and investments - are divided in a manner the Court finds just and equitable. Both financial contributions (e.g. paying for property, mortgage, expenses) and non-financial contributions (e.g. childcare, homemaking) are considered. The Court has broad discretion, and settlements often involve both property transfers and CPF refunds.

The timeline depends on whether the divorce is uncontested or contested.

Uncontested divorce: If both spouses agree on all issues, the Court usually grants an Interim Judgment within 4–6 weeks of filing. After a mandatory 3-month waiting period, the divorce is finalised when the Final Judgment is extracted. In total, an uncontested divorce typically takes about 4–6 months.

Contested divorce: If there are disputes over issues such as custody, property, or maintenance, the process is much longer. Contested cases may involve multiple mediation sessions, affidavits, and hearings. These often take 6 to 18 months or more, depending on the number and complexity of disputes.

• Uncontested divorce: Both parties agree on the divorce and all terms (custody, maintenance, property division). The process is faster, simpler, and cheaper.
• Contested divorce: Parties cannot agree on one or more issues. The case involves mediation, written submissions, and hearings, and the Court makes the final decision.

Yes. Foreigners may file for divorce if either spouse is domiciled in Singapore or has been habitually resident here for at least 3 years before filing.

Yes. If your spouse does not consent, you may still file for a contested divorce. You will need to show that the marriage has irretrievably broken down through grounds such as adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, or separation.

If you and your spouse have children under 21, you must complete the CPP before filing for divorce. This programme ensures children’s welfare is central to the process by helping parents:

• Understand the impact of divorce on children.
• Learn strategies for cooperative parenting.
• Reduce disputes and focus on the child’s best interests.

A Certificate of Completion must be submitted to the Family Justice Courts when filing for divorce.

For an uncontested divorce, it is highly unlikely that you will need to appear in court. Your lawyer will handle the filing of all necessary documents and represent you throughout the process. For a contested divorce, you and your spouse will likely need to attend court hearings and mediations. Your lawyer will prepare you for these appearances and guide you through the process.

Mediation is a confidential process where a neutral third party (a trained mediator) helps you and your spouse to voluntarily reach an agreement on all the issues in your divorce. This includes the division of assets, child custody, and maintenance. Mediation is highly encouraged and can be a faster, more cost-effective, and less stressful alternative to going to court. For contested divorces involving children under 21, the court will likely refer you and your spouse to mandatory mediation and counselling before any trial.

1. How much does a divorce cost in Singapore?

The cost depends mainly on whether the divorce is uncontested or contested.

Uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on all terms, are generally far more affordable and predictable. Contested divorces vary widely in cost because they involve disputes over issues such as children, maintenance, or division of assets, which require more legal time and court involvement.

2.  Divorce Lawyer Fees

Uncontested divorces in Singapore typically cost around $1,600 for a simple divorce with no ancillary issues, and from around $2,600 for cases involving children, division of assets, maintenance, or property matters. Fees are lower because both parties agree on all issues, making the process more straightforward.

For contested divorces, fees vary because costs depend on the number of issues in dispute, the complexity of the case, and the amount of legal work required. Every contested matter is different, so lawyers will usually provide a tailored quote after understanding the circumstances.

3.  PKWA Law Divorce Fees

At PKWA Law, our fees are fixed, clear and transparent.  Our fees are also highly competitive and within market range.

Click here to view PKWA Law’s clear, fixed-fee packages.

4.   Why is uncontested divorce cheaper than contested divorce?

Uncontested divorces are less expensive because both parties agree on every issue from the start.

This avoids multiple hearings, reduces legal work, and leads to a faster resolution. Contested divorces involve negotiations, evidence preparation, and potentially a trial, which increases time and cost.

5.   Can mediation help reduce divorce costs?

Yes. Mediation is one of the most effective ways to reduce legal fees.

By resolving disagreements early, couples often avoid lengthy contested proceedings. The Family Justice Courts strongly encourage mediation, and many clients find that it leads to a faster, more amicable, and more cost-effective outcome.

6.   What other factors affect divorce costs?

Costs may increase depending on:

• Whether there are children under 21 (custody and maintenance issues)
• Whether there is an HDB flat or other high-value property
• The number and complexity of assets to be divided
• The level of conflict between the parties
• Whether financial disclosure is straightforward or disputed

7.   Can divorce costs be fixed upfront?

Yes. For uncontested divorces, we provide fixed-fee packages so you have certainty from the start.

For contested matters, fees depend on the complexity of the issues, but we keep our fee structure transparent and provide stage-by-stage estimates so clients remain fully informed.

8.   Are there ways to manage or reduce divorce costs?

Yes. Some practical ways to keep costs manageable include:

• Exploring mediation early
• Staying open to settlement on major issues
• Preparing financial documents clearly and promptly
• Keeping communication efficient
• Engaging a lawyer who offers fixed fees where possible

9.   How much do private investigators (PIs) cost in divorce cases?

PI fees vary based on the duration and complexity of surveillance.

They can range from a few thousand dollars upward, depending on the evidence needed. However, PI work is not required in most cases. Many clients use “unreasonable behaviour” as the ground for divorce instead of adultery, as it is typically easier, faster, and more cost-effective to prove.

Frequently Asked Questions When Hiring a Divorce Lawyer in Singapore

1.  What is the difference between an uncontested and a contested divorce?

If both spouses agree on all terms, an uncontested divorce is generally quicker and much more cost-effective. Contested cases, where issues such as children, maintenance or assets are disputed, typically involve higher fees and longer timelines.

2.   Should I look for fixed and transparent fees?

Yes. Clear pricing helps you plan with confidence. For uncontested matters, many firms provide fixed-fee packages. PKWA Law offers affordable, fixed fees so clients know exactly what to expect.

3.   How much does an initial consultation usually cost?

Some lawyers offer a complimentary first meeting, while others charge a consultation fee. This session helps you understand your rights and next steps before engaging representation. At PKWA Law, your initial consultation is free of charge.

4.   Do I need a lawyer with specific expertise for my case?

If your case involves complexities such as cross-border issues, high-net-worth assets or disputes over children, it is important to choose a lawyer with relevant experience. This ensures your interests are properly protected.

5.   Can mediation help reduce conflict and legal costs?

Yes. Firms with accredited mediators can help couples reach mutually acceptable outcomes without lengthy litigation, reducing stress, cost and time. PKWA Law’s divorce lawyers are also accredited mediators. 

6.  How can I assess a law firm’s reputation?

Client testimonials, success stories and industry rankings provide insight into a firm’s professionalism, quality of service and overall track record. PKWA Law is consistently ranked among Singapore’s leading family law teams.

The most affordable or cheapest way to get a divorce in Singapore is through an uncontested divorce. This happens when both spouses agree on all key issues such as children, assets, and maintenance. Because there are no disputes for the court to resolve, the process becomes faster, simpler and more affordable. Choosing a law firm that offers clear guidance, transparent fees and assistance with reaching an agreement can help keep your costs low. If disagreements arise, mediation can often help couples avoid a more costly contested divorce.