Divorce in Singapore: Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
At PKWA Law, one of Singapore’s leading family law firms, we guide clients through the divorce process with clear advice and empathetic support. Whether your case is contested or uncontested (simplified/amicable), understanding the legal requirements – including mandatory programmes for parents — will help you prepare for what lies ahead.
What Is a Contested Divorce?
A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on:
- Whether the marriage should end (the ground of divorce)
- Custody, care and control of the children
- Division of matrimonial assets
- Maintenance for the wife or children
Although contested divorces are more complex, about 90% settle before trial because the Family Justice Courts actively encourage mediation and settlement. Only in fewer than 10% of cases will a Judge make the final decision at a full hearing.
Note: A contested divorce usually takes longer (often over a year) and is significantly more expensive than an uncontested divorce.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce (Simplified Divorce)?
An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on the divorce and all related issues before filing. This allows your lawyer to use the simplified divorce track in the Family Justice Courts.
When parties agree on all issues, the process is straightforward:
- Interim Judgment can usually be obtained within about 4 weeks.
- Final Judgment (the official end of the marriage) follows 3 months later.
This makes uncontested divorce the fastest and most cost-effective route.
Grounds for Divorce in Singapore
To file for divorce, you must prove the marriage has broken down irretrievably through one of the following:
- Unreasonable behaviour
- Adultery
- Desertion
- 3 years’ separation with consent
- 4 years’ separation without consent
- Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) (New ground from 1 July 2024)
If you are applying for divorce based on DMA, the Court will still require:
- Reasons showing the breakdown is irretrievable
- Evidence that reconciliation was attempted
- Arrangements for children and finances
Co-Parenting Programme (CPP)
If you and your spouse have at least one child under 21 years old, you are legally required to complete the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) before you can file for divorce in Singapore.
Who Must Attend?
Both parents of children under 21, regardless of whether:
- The divorce is contested or uncontested (simplified track).
- The divorce is filed under any ground (including Divorce by Mutual Agreement, adultery, behaviour, separation, etc.).
When Must It Be Completed?
- The CPP must be completed before filing for divorce.
- A Certificate of Completion (one for each parent) must be submitted with the divorce papers to the Family Justice Courts.
Purpose of the CPP
The programme is designed to place children’s welfare at the centre of the divorce process. It helps parents:
- Understand the impact of divorce on children – including emotional, psychological, and behavioural effects.
- Encourage cooperative parenting – with strategies for communication and reducing conflict.
- Support child-focused decisions – ensuring custody, care, and access arrangements meet the child’s best interests.
- Minimise disputes – reducing the negative impact of parental conflict on children.
Summary:
- All divorcing parents with children under 21 must attend CPP, no matter which track (simplified/contested) or ground (DMA, adultery, behaviour, separation).
- The Certificate of Completion is compulsory when filing.
Key Issues to Agree On in an Uncontested Divorce
- Children & Custody – Care and control, access arrangements, and whether custody is joint or sole. Courts usually order joint custody to ensure both parents are involved in major decisions.
- Division of Matrimonial Assets – Especially the HDB flat, CPF monies, savings, and investments.
- Maintenance – Child maintenance and, where applicable, spousal maintenance.
Divorce Costs in Singapore – What Clients Can Expect
The cost of divorce in Singapore varies widely depending on whether the case is contested or uncontested:
- Uncontested Divorce: Industry rates usually range from about $1,200 to $4,000, depending on whether there are children, property, or maintenance issues.
- Contested Divorce: Fees can start from around $10,000 and increase significantly if the case goes to trial, particularly for complex disputes over custody or high-value assets.
In general:
- The more issues in dispute, the higher the cost.
- Mediation and early settlement can help keep legal fees under control.
Why Engage a Specialist Divorce Lawyer?
Even in amicable divorces, mistakes in paperwork or misunderstanding HDB/CPF rules can cause costly delays. A divorce lawyer will:
- Advise you on your rights and obligations
- Ensure compliance with mandatory programmes and filing requirements
- Draft and file all required documents accurately
- Help you avoid unfair settlements or orders the Court will not approve
Divorce Process Timeline
- Uncontested Divorce: Interim Judgment in 4 weeks; Final Judgment 3 months later
- Contested Divorce: 12 months or more, depending on complexity and settlement efforts
Speak to PKWA Law – Trusted Divorce Lawyers in Singapore
PKWA Law is consistently recognised by The Straits Times, Asian Legal Business, Benchmark Litigation and Dolyes Guide as one of Singapore’s Best Law Firms in Family Law. With over 30 years of experience, our divorce lawyers combine expertise with empathy to help clients navigate this difficult time with clarity and confidence.
Contact us today to arrange a consultation with our specialist divorce team.
Fixed, clear & transparent fees
$1,490
No children, property or maintenance
$2,490
With children, property and maintenance
