“A leading specialist for family and divorce law in Singapore. PKWA Law offers affordable fees in addition to legal excellence.” – The Straits Times
When your marriage breaks down, there are important decisions to make about your children, your finances and your future. The right divorce lawyer can help you protect what matters most and achieve the best possible outcome.
For over 30 years, PKWA Law has been one of Singapore’s most established specialist family and divorce law firms, guiding families through divorce with practical advice, experienced representation and transparent fixed fees.
✓ One of Singapore’s Best Family Law Firms – Ranked by The Straits Times as one of Singapore’s Best Family Law Firms for six consecutive years (2021-2026).
✓ Proven Results – Landmark Court of Appeal and High Court victories in some of Singapore’s leading family law cases.
✓ Fixed Fees from $1,690 – Affordable and transparent pricing, within the market range.
✓ Over 30 Years of Experience – Trusted by clients for over three decades, with extensive experience across every aspect of divorce law.
✓ One of Singapore’s Largest Specialist Divorce Teams – Our experienced divorce lawyers handle the full range of family matters, from straightforward uncontested divorces to complex disputes involving substantial assets, business interests, inherited wealth, child custody and international issues.
✓ Free 30-Minute Initial Consultation – Speak to one of our divorce lawyers about your situation, the process and fees. Does not include detailed legal advice, case strategy or document review. Subject to availability.
Our family law team has successfully handled some of Singapore’s most complex divorce disputes before the Family Justice Courts, High Court, and Court of Appeal.
In a landmark Court of Appeal case, our client engaged us after being awarded only 25% of the matrimonial assets at an earlier stage of the proceedings. We successfully increased his share from 25% to 75% (from $3.4 million to $10.2 million). This is one of the largest increases in Singapore’s divorce history.
We successfully defended a high-net-worth client by protecting $41 million in assets and inheritance from being divided in a complex divorce dispute. This is one of the highest asset protection outcomes secured by our team.
Learn more about our Court of Appeal and High Court wins below, or contact our family law team to discuss your situation.
With over 4,000 Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating across our legal services, PKWA Law is one of Singapore’s most highly recommended law firms.
An uncontested divorce in Singapore generally costs between $1,500 and $3,500 (Source: Singapore Legal Advice). At PKWA Law, our fixed fee for an uncontested divorce ranges from $1,690 to $2,890, comfortably within the market range.
|
Uncontested divorce |
Fee |
|---|---|
|
PKWA Law (fixed fee) |
$1,690 – $2,890 |
|
Singapore market range |
$1,500 – $3,500
|
Our fixed fee includes:
If your divorce is contested, please contact us for a free consultation and a quote.
$1,690
No children, property or maintenance
$2,890
With children, property or maintenance
Contested Divorce
Fixed fee agreed upfront
PKWA Law is consistently ranked among Singapore’s Best Family Law Firms by The Straits Times (2021-2026).
In 2026, PKWA Law was named Matrimonial and Family Law Firm of the Year at the 22nd ALB SE Asia Law Awards, presented by Asian Legal Business (Thomson Reuters).
We are also consistently named as a leading family and divorce law firm by Benchmark Litigation, Asian Legal Business, and Doyle’s Guide.
Divorce Advice You Can Trust
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Our first priority is always to resolve the matter constructively, in a calm and respectful manner. When litigation becomes necessary, we take a firm, decisive, and strategic approach to protect your interests, as reflected in the following Court of Appeal and High Court cases:
We advise and represent clients across the full range of divorce matters, including:
Contact us to discuss your situation. Our divorce lawyers will advise you on the most appropriate approach based on your circumstances.
Speak With Our Divorce Team
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If you are considering a divorce and unsure where to begin, we offer a free initial consultation to help you understand the divorce process, the likely timeline, and our fees.
This session is designed to help you decide whether to proceed and whether we are the right fit for you. It is not a case advice session, and our lawyers will not be able to advise on the specific merits or strategy of your case at this stage.
If you decide to engage us, our divorce lawyers will advise you fully from that point.
Clients who require more detailed, case-specific advice or a longer discussion may opt for a paid divorce consultation with our lawyer.
Head, Family Law
“Their dedication and attention to detail reflect a strong commitment to client care and service excellence.”
Joe Leow
Associate Director, Family Law
“From the start, their team was professional, efficient, and clear in their communication.”
Kim Hua Neo
Associate Director, Family Law & General Litigation
“Guided me through every step with clarity and care, making a complicated process feel easy.”
Amanda Boon
Associate Director, Family Law
“Their attention to detail and expertise instilled confidence in me, while their strategic mindset ensured that my best interests were always prioritized.”
Sean Kock
Senior Associate, Family Law
“Truly exceptional legal representation. From the outset, PKWA Law’s expertise and experience were evident. They didn’t just handle my case; they mastered it.”
Evon Lim
Senior Associate, Family Law & Criminal Defence
“PKWA is the most professional law firm that we can always trust.”
Ellie Zhu
PKWA Law recognised for sixth year running in the Straits Times “Singapore’s Best Law Firms”
Hear what our clients say about us.
PKWA Law is an established law firm with over 30 years of history, and a team of more than 100 legal and support professionals.
Our fees are fixed, clear and transparent, so you can have certainty and peace of mind.
Over 4,000 Google Reviews (4.9★) across pkwalaw.com and on our family law resource portal, singaporefamilylawyers.com.sg.
Our lawyers are recognised as leading family lawyers by The Straits Times, the Law Society, Asian Legal Business, and other respected organisations and publications.
Landmark Wins at
High Court and Court of Appeal
Navigating a divorce can feel overwhelming, but understanding the legal framework is the first step toward protecting your rights and securing your future. In Singapore, all divorce proceedings for non-Muslim marriages are governed by the Women’s Charter and heard in the Family Justice Courts.
Before filing for a divorce in Singapore, you must meet the following statutory criteria:
Under Singapore law, there is only one ground for divorce: the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. To establish this ground, the filing party must prove one or more of the following facts:
If you and your spouse have children below 21 years of age, you are generally required to attend the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) before filing for divorce.
The programme helps parents understand the impact of divorce on their children and encourages them to make child-focused parenting arrangements. Upon completion, you may proceed with filing your divorce, subject to the applicable legal requirements.
An uncontested divorce is generally faster and more cost-effective because both parties agree on the essentials. This means agreeing not only that the marriage has irretrievably broken down – established by relying on one of the recognised facts above – but also on the key ancillary issues, including:
Our lawyers guide clients through the process efficiently while ensuring the settlement remains fair and workable in the long term.
Where parties cannot agree on important issues, the matter may proceed as a contested divorce through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings.
Divorce proceedings in Singapore are split into two distinct stages:
The court determines whether the marriage has irretrievably broken down. If satisfied, the court grants an Interim Judgment, legally ending the marital relationship.
The court addresses and resolves the practical consequences of the divorce. Once all ancillary terms are settled or decided, the court issues the Final Judgment.
Matrimonial assets generally include the matrimonial home, joint savings, investments, CPF savings, and businesses acquired during the marriage. Singapore courts apply a structured approach to achieve a just and equitable division, taking into account both direct financial contributions (e.g., down payments, mortgage payments) and indirect non-financial contributions (e.g., homemaking, child-raising, moral support).
When children are involved, their welfare is the court’s paramount consideration:
The court may order maintenance to ensure financial stability post-divorce:
In Singapore, a simplified uncontested divorce typically takes about 4 months to complete. The process is split into two stages: first, the court issues an Interim Judgment (IJ) within about 1 month to legally confirm that the marriage can be dissolved. This is followed by a mandatory 3-month waiting period required by law, after which the Final Judgment (FJ) is extracted to formally complete the divorce and legally dissolve the marriage.
Contested divorces generally take longer and may range from several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the dispute and whether matters can be resolved through negotiation or mediation.
While we are experienced litigators, we also believe many family disputes are best resolved constructively – especially where children and long-term family relationships are involved.
Our team includes Accredited Mediators with the Singapore Mediation Centre and Accredited Collaborative Family Practitioners, allowing clients to explore practical and less confrontational solutions where appropriate.
Trusted Divorce Guidance
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Am I eligible to file for a divorce?
To file for a civil divorce under the Women’s Charter, you must meet these criteria:
What are the legal grounds for divorce in Singapore?
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:
What is Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA)?
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:
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.
Can I file for divorce on the ground of adultery?
Yes. Adultery is one of the recognised facts to show irretrievable breakdown of a marriage. You 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:
How are children’s custody and care decided in a divorce?
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.
How are matrimonial assets and property divided in a 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.
How long does the divorce process take?
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.
What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?
Can I get a divorce even if my spouse refuses?
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.
Can foreigners file for divorce in Singapore and what happens to my immigration pass after divorce?
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Divorce Lawyer
Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Singapore?
No. You are not legally required to engage a lawyer to file for divorce in Singapore.
However, divorce often involves important issues such as the division of matrimonial assets, child arrangements and maintenance. Many people choose to engage a lawyer to ensure that their interests are properly protected and that the necessary court documents are prepared correctly.
Can I file for divorce without a lawyer?
Yes. You may represent yourself in the Family Justice Courts. If your divorce is suitable for the simplified process, there are online resources provided by the courts to assist self-represented parties.
That said, many people find that legal advice helps them better understand their rights and obligations before making important decisions that may have long-term consequences.
What is a Litigant in Person?
A Litigant in Person is someone who represents himself or herself in court without engaging a lawyer.
While this may reduce legal costs, you will be responsible for preparing court documents, complying with court procedures and presenting your own case.
Can I get legal advice if I cannot afford a lawyer?
Yes. Depending on your financial circumstances, you may be eligible for legal assistance through government or community legal assistance schemes.
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the organisation and the type of assistance being sought.
Is it worth hiring a divorce lawyer if my divorce is uncontested?
Many couples still engage a lawyer for an uncontested divorce.
A lawyer can prepare the necessary documents, advise on the terms of the settlement, ensure the documents comply with court requirements and help avoid mistakes that may cause delays.
What if my spouse already has a lawyer?
If your spouse has engaged a lawyer, it is generally advisable to obtain independent legal advice before signing any settlement agreement or court documents.
This helps ensure that you understand your legal position and the implications of the proposed arrangements.
When should I speak to a divorce lawyer?
It is often beneficial to seek legal advice early, even if you have not yet decided whether to proceed with a divorce.
An initial consultation can help you understand the divorce process, likely timelines, potential legal issues and the options available, allowing you to make informed decisions.
How do I choose the right divorce lawyer?
When choosing a divorce lawyer, consider factors such as experience in family law, clear and transparent legal fees, responsiveness, practical advice and whether the lawyer explains the process in a way that you understand.
It is also helpful to choose a lawyer who focuses primarily on family law rather than handling many different areas of practice.
Helpful Resources
Where can I find a divorce lawyer in Singapore?
The Legal Services Regulatory Authority (LSRA) maintains an online directory of practising lawyers in Singapore. If you are looking for legal representation, you may search the directory to find a lawyer.
What if I cannot afford a lawyer?
If you are unable to afford legal representation, assistance may be available through:
* Legal Aid Bureau (LAB)
* Pro Bono SG Community Legal Clinics
* Family Justice Support Scheme (Pro Bono SG)
Each scheme has its own eligibility requirements and scope of assistance.
Can I represent myself in a divorce?
Yes. If you choose not to engage a lawyer, you may represent yourself as a Litigant in Person. The Family Justice Courts, Pro Bono SG and the Legal Aid Bureau provide information and assistance for self-represented litigants.
Is there an online service to file for divorce?
If your case is suitable for the simplified divorce process, the Family Justice Courts provide a Divorce eService that enables eligible parties to prepare and file their divorce documents online without engaging a lawyer.
Where can I learn more about the divorce process?
The Ministry of Social and Family Development’s Family Assist portal contains useful information on the divorce process, counselling and support services, parenting after divorce, and other practical matters that families may wish to consider before or during divorce proceedings.
What is the Co-Parenting Programme (CPP)?
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:
A Certificate of Completion must be submitted to the Family Justice Courts when filing for divorce.
Do I need to appear in court for the divorce proceedings?
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.
What is mediation, and can it help me in my divorce?
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.
What is the most affordable way to get a divorce in Singapore?
The most affordable 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.
How to find the best divorce lawyer in Singapore?
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer in Singapore, the right choice depends on your individual circumstances rather than finding someone described as the “best” in general. Start by choosing a lawyer who focuses on family law, has experience handling cases similar to yours, and is familiar with divorce proceedings in the Family Justice Courts.
A good divorce lawyer should explain your options clearly, be transparent about legal fees, and advise whether negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings are most appropriate for your situation. Clear communication, practical guidance, and trust are often more important than choosing the cheapest option or the most aggressive approach.
When choosing a divorce lawyer, it is also important to consider several practical factors that can affect both the outcome and cost of your case.
1. Experience with your type of divorce
Uncontested divorces, where both parties agree on all terms, are usually faster and more cost-effective. Contested divorces involving disputes over children, maintenance, or assets tend to be more complex. A lawyer with experience handling cases similar to yours will be better placed to advise you effectively.
2. Transparency of legal fees
Clear and transparent pricing allows you to plan with confidence. Many firms offer fixed-fee packages for uncontested matters, while contested cases may be billed differently depending on complexity. Understanding what is included in the fees helps avoid unexpected costs.
3. Quality of the initial consultation
An initial consultation helps you understand your legal position, available options, and next steps. It also allows you to assess whether the lawyer communicates clearly and understands your concerns.
4. Relevant expertise for complex matters
If your case involves issues such as cross-border elements, high-value assets, or disputes over children, it is important to engage a lawyer with relevant experience to ensure your interests are properly protected.
5. Approach to dispute resolution
Lawyers experienced in mediation and negotiation can often help resolve matters more efficiently, reducing emotional strain, time, and legal costs. They should also be prepared to represent you in court if settlement is not possible.
6. Reputation and professional standing
Client feedback, published decisions, and industry recognition can provide useful insight into a lawyer’s professionalism, reliability, and track record in family law matters.
For a more comprehensive read on how to choose the best divorce lawyer, please read PKWA Law’s article How to Choose the Best Divorce Lawyers in Singapore.
What are the two stages of divorce in Singapore?
Divorce in Singapore always takes place in two distinct stages:
1. Dissolution of the marriage
The court must first be satisfied that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. Once this is established, the court will issue an Interim Judgment, which legally ends the marital relationship.
2. Ancillary matters
After the Interim Judgment, the court will address the practical issues that arise from the divorce, such as:
These matters will either be agreed on through negotiation or decided by the court if the parties cannot agree.
Once the ancillary matters are fully resolved and at least three months have passed from the Interim Judgment, either party may apply for the Certificate of Final Judgment. This marks the completion of the divorce.
How are my HDB & CPF dealt with in a divorce?
HDB flats and CPF monies are often the most significant assets in a Singapore divorce. Questions around eligibility, Minimum Occupation Periods, CPF refunds, whether parties can sell in the open market, or whether one party can retain the flat frequently determine how a divorce is resolved.
1. Is our HDB flat always considered a matrimonial asset?
Generally, yes. Under the Women’s Charter, a flat is a matrimonial asset if it was acquired by one or both parties during the marriage.
Even if you bought the flat before marriage, it can be included in the matrimonial pool if it was used as the family home or if your spouse made significant financial or non-financial contributions (such as renovations or caregiving) during the marriage.
2. Who is eligible to keep the flat after the divorce?
To “retain” the flat, the party staying must meet HDB’s strict eligibility criteria:
3. What happens if we have not met the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP)?
As of 2026, HDB flats fall under different classifications (Standard, Plus, and Prime), each with different MOP durations ranging from 5 to 10 years. If your MOP has not been met:
4. Is a CPF refund mandatory if I take over my spouse’s share of the flat?
Generally, yes. CPF rules usually require a full refund of the principal amount used plus accrued interest.
However, there are 2 exceptions to this rule:
The Benefit of a partial or zero CPF refund: This allows one party to keep the flat even if they don’t have enough cash to fully refund their spouse’s CPF.
Do Note: If a zero-refund is ordered, the party keeping the flat must eventually refund that “missing” amount (plus accrued interest) into their own CPF account when they sell the property in the future. This is not a factor in divorce discussions, as the money is still yours, except that it must go back to your CPF account.
5. How is the “value” of the HDB split between us?
The Court doesn’t just look at who paid more. They use a “just and equitable” approach that considers:
6. Can we agree on the HDB division ourselves?
Yes. In an uncontested divorce, you can reach a private agreement on whether to sell the flat, transfer it, and whether a CPF refund is required. However, your agreement must still be drafted into a formal Court Order that satisfies both HDB and CPF Board regulations to be enforceable.
7. What are the timelines for transferring an HDB flat?
Once the Final Judgment is granted, the transfer process typically takes 3 to 5 months. This involves obtaining bank financing, clearing CPF charges, and completing the legal “Change in Flat Ownership” through HDB.
8. How PKWA Law Helps You Navigate This:
What is Therapeutic Justice in divorce?
Supporting You With Therapeutic Justice and Mediation
While we are experienced litigators, our divorce lawyers also adopts the Singapore Family Justice Courts’ Therapeutic Justice framework. We believe that a divorce is not just a legal conclusion, but a deeply personal transition that requires a “lens of care.” Our approach is to move away from unnecessary confrontation and toward thoughtful problem-solving solutions.
This is why our team also includes Accredited Mediators with the Singapore Mediation Centre and Accredited Collaborative Family Practitioners (CFP), giving clients more positive ways to resolve disputes. Our constructive approach often leads to:
How much does divorce cost in Singapore?
In Singapore, lawyers generally charge either fixed fees or hourly rates. Hourly billing is more common in contested or complex cases and can lead to higher overall costs, while fixed-fee arrangements provide greater predictability.
The total cost of a divorce in Singapore depends mainly on:
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce
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.
Uncontested divorce fees in Singapore typically range from $1,500 to $3,500.
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.
Contested legal fees in Singapore can start from $10,000.
The Billing Structure
Billing structure also plays an important role. Some firms charge by the hour, while others offer fixed-fee packages. With fixed fees, it is helpful for clients to understand what is included and what may be considered additional work. In some fixed fee arrangements, steps such as extra consultations or document amendments may fall outside the base package, and these additional components can increase the total cost.
Such additional charges are normal when extra work is needed beyond the usual scope. The key is for clients to review the fee structure carefully so they have a clear sense of what is covered and what might involve extra cost.
What is the range of divorce fees in Singapore?
Divorce fees in Singapore vary depending on whether the divorce is uncontested, whether ancillary matters are involved, and the overall complexity of the case.
Uncontested divorce fees in Singapore usually range from $1,500 to $3,500 depending on whether there are issues relating to children, division of assets, property, and maintenance. Fees also depend on whether there are substantial assets, business interests, and international elements.
For contested divorces, fees depend on the complexity of the dispute and the issues involved. Our lawyers will give you a clear fee estimate at the outset of your matter. As every contested case is different, lawyers typically assess the circumstances before advising on fees.
Key Factors Affecting Overall Divorce Costs
The final cost of a divorce is determined by the complexity of the case, driven by factors such as:
What are PKWA Law’s divorce fees?
Uncontested divorce fees in Singapore range from $1,500 to $3,500 (Source: Singapore Legal Advice).
Our fees are comfortably within this range.
PKWA Uncontested Divorce Fixed Fees
What’s Included:
✔ Settlement Review – Our specialist divorce lawyer reviews your proposed settlement and advises you on your legal position and whether the terms are fair in your circumstances before you sign.
✔ Properly drafted Consent Order – Carefully structured clauses on the sale or transfer of your HDB flat, private property, CPF, maintenance, child custody, and other key terms.
✔ All paperwork & court filing handled.
✔ Specialist divorce lawyers handling your case.
PKWA Contested Divorce Fees
What’s Included:
✔ Case strategy – Clear view of your position and best path forward.
✔ Negotiation & court proceedings – We handle all negotiations, mediation and court work.
✔ Specialist divorce lawyers handling your case.
