Divorce means a big change in life. It touches your feelings, money and future. In Singapore, divorce follows a legal path with many steps. You must know your rights and stand up for them. A family lawyer in Singapore helps you stay safe and strong.
This guide shows what happens during a divorce, how to guard yourself and how a divorce law firm gives support. If you plan to get divorced or have already started then this guide will help you to make smart choices.
What Happens in a Divorce in Singapore
In Singapore, the Women’s Charter sets the rules for divorce. You can ask for a divorce only if you have been married for three years. If not, you need special permission. You also need to show that your marriage has completely ended.
The court agrees to a divorce if one of these things happens:
- One person had an affair
- One person acted in a very bad way
- One person left the other for two years
- Both people lived apart for three years or more
Once the court sees the marriage has ended, it will move on to other matters. These include care for children, dividing things and monetary support.
Why You Should Work With a Family Lawyer in Singapore
A family lawyer Singapore handles problems in families. Divorce is one of them. A good lawyer helps you to move through this tough time.
Gives Clear Help
Your lawyer explains your rights. They tell you what the law says and what steps to take.
Handles All Paperwork
Divorce has many forms and letters. Your lawyer writes, checks, and sends them.
Stands With You in Court
If you go to court, your lawyer talks for you. They explain your side and stand by you.
Helps You Agree on Matters
Most divorce cases do not go to the full court. Your lawyer helps you talk with your spouse and agree on fair terms.
A divorce law firm gives you advice and walks with you each step.
What You Must Solve in a Divorce
Dividing Things You Both Shared
The court looks at things you both used during marriage. These include:
- Your home
- Bank accounts
- Cars
- Business work
- CPF savings
The court does not always split them in half. It checks what each person gave to the marriage. Your family lawyer writes down what you have and helps you get a fair share.
Looking After Children
If you have children, the court thinks about them first. The court chooses who makes big choices for them and who they live with.
Most times, both parents help to decide but one parent takes care of the child more. The other parent visits and spends time with them.
A family lawyer Singapore helps you plan for your child’s care and shows that you meet their needs.
Paying for Your Spouse or Children
The court may ask one person to give money to the other or to the children. A parent must help by paying for their child’s food, clothes and school.
The court checks:
- How much each person earns
- What the child needs
- How life looked during the marriage
Your lawyer helps you ask for help or reply to a request in a fair way.
How to Protect Your Rights During Divorce
Step 1: Learn What You Can Ask For
Talk to a lawyer first. Find out what you can keep, what you must share, and what you must do. Every case looks different.
Step 2: Gather Important Papers
Keep papers that show what you earn, own, or pay for. These include:
- Bank books
- House papers
- Work slips
- Tax bills
- Loan slips
You need these to prove your side. Your divorce law firm tells you what to keep and how to use it.
Step 3: Think of the Children
The court wants the best for the child. Try to keep peace and not fight in front of them. Try to agree with your spouse about how to care for them.
Your lawyer builds a plan that shows how you look after your child.
Step 4: Stay Cool and Tell the Truth
You may feel upset during the divorce. But stay calm and think before you act. Tell your lawyer the truth. This helps them fight for you.
Step 5: Don’t Rush Into a Deal
You may want to finish things fast. But don’t say yes to things that hurt you later. Ask your lawyer first. They check if it’s fair and safe.
How to Prepare for the Divorce Process
Talk to a Lawyer Early
If you think about getting a divorce, don’t wait. Speak to a family lawyer early. They tell you your rights and help you plan your next steps. A lawyer gives you advice that suits your life. Every person’s story is different, so the help must match your needs.
Keep a Diary
Write down things that happen. This includes how much time you spend with your child, money matters, or problems with your spouse. These notes help you show the court what really happened.
Plan for Your Future
Think about where you will live, what you will need, and how to care for your children. Plan your budget. Write down your costs for food, rent, transport, and school. This helps when the court looks at maintenance and housing.
Put Your Children First
Children may feel confused or scared. Keep them out of fights. Tell them that both parents love them. Make sure their school and daily life stay the same, if you can.
A little planning makes the divorce smoother. Your lawyer helps you stay ready for each step.
What if your husband or wife says no?
Contested vs Uncontested Divorce
If both people agree to the divorce terms, it’s called uncontested. If one person disagrees, it becomes contested. Contested divorces take longer. There may be more court visits. A divorce law firm helps you manage this.
What Happens in a Contested Divorce?
In a contested case, the court decides on issues like who keeps the house, how to split money, or who cares for the child. You must show proof. You may need to give papers, photos, or letters that support your story.
Your lawyer speaks for you in court. They explain why the judge should agree with your plan.
Can You Still Settle?
Yes. Even if you start with a contested case, both sides can still reach a deal. Lawyers often help people talk and agree before the full court hearing. Settling saves time and reduces stress.
What to Check When You Pick a Family Lawyer
The right lawyer helps a lot. Look for someone who:
Knows the Work
Choose a lawyer who has worked on many divorce cases. They know what to do.
Speaks in a Simple Way
You must feel safe to ask anything. A good lawyer explains things clearly.
Tells You the Truth
A good lawyer doesn’t just tell you what you want. They help you see the best path.
Gives You Support
You want someone who listens, stands by you, and helps you make strong choices.
A family lawyer shows you your choices and works for your best interest.
Conclusion
Divorce feels hard. But it also gives you a chance to start again. When you know your rights and work with a divorce law firm, you get a fair and strong path forward.
Take time. Ask questions. Focus on your new life. If you don’t know where to begin, talk to a family lawyer in Singapore. They guide you, explain your choices, and help you step into a better tomorrow
