Singapore Divorce Lawyers
30 Years of Trusted Family Law
4.9
Based on 3455 reviews
powered by Google
Fixed Fee Singapore Divorce Lawyers
“PKWA Law offers friendly services and affordable fees in addition to legal excellence.”
– The Straits Times
Need a divorce lawyer in Singapore? Our experienced family law team is recognised among Singapore’s leading practices, offering expert support for contested and uncontested divorces with clear, fixed fees.
Who Can File for Divorce?
To initiate divorce proceedings in Singapore, you or your spouse must meet the following core requirements:
- Residency: Be a Singapore citizen or have lived in Singapore for at least 3 continuous years before filing.
- Marriage Duration: Have been married for at least 3 years. Special court permission is needed to file earlier, granted only in cases of exceptional hardship or depravity.]
- Marriage Type: Be married under civil law (i.e., the Women’s Charter). Those married under Syariah law must file at the Syariah Court.
The Sole Legal Ground: Irretrievable Breakdown
The court will only grant a divorce if it is satisfied that the marriage has broken down irretrievably and cannot be saved.
To prove this, you must rely on one of several specific facts:
- Adultery: Your spouse committed adultery and you find it intolerable to live together.
- Unreasonable Behaviour: Your spouse behaved in a way that makes it unreasonable to expect you to live with them (e.g., abuse, financial neglect).
- Desertion: Your spouse left you against your will, with the intention to end the marriage, for at least 2 years.
- Separation (with consent): You have lived apart for 3 years and your spouse consents to the divorce.
- Separation (without consent): You have lived apart for 4 years or more.
- Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA): Both spouses agree the marriage has broken down, have attempted reconciliation, and have considered arrangements for children and finances. No minimum separation period is required.
The Two-Track Divorce Process
The path your divorce takes depends heavily on whether you and your spouse can agree.
Simplified Track (Uncontested)
When it applies: When both parties agree on the reason for the divorce before filing the application.
Key Features:
- Faster: An Interim Judgment (the first court order) is typically granted within about 1 month.
- Less Costly: Significantly lower in legal fees and personal stress.
- Process: Parties are not usually required to attend court hearings.
Normal Track (Contested)
When it applies: When spouses cannot agree on the reason for divorce before filing.
Key Features:
- Longer: The process may take 12 to 18 months or more to conclude.
- More Complex & Costly: Involves court hearings, evidence filing, and potentially a trial, leading to higher legal fees.
The Two-Stage Procedure
All divorces in Singapore follow a two-stage legal procedure:
Stage 1: Dissolution of Marriage
- The court examines if the marriage has irretrievably broken down based on the facts provided.
- If satisfied, the court grants an Interim Judgment.
Stage 2: Ancillary Matters
- The court resolves issues like division of assets, child custody/access arrangements, and maintenance.
- A Certificate of Final Judgment can only be applied for at least 3 months after the Interim Judgment, formally dissolving the marriage.
Going through a divorce is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can face. You need a lawyer who combines legal expertise with affordable fees. At Singapore Family Lawyers, we provide both – expert divorce representation at affordable, fixed fees, so you can move forward with confidence without worrying about unexpected costs.
We are consistently ranked as among Singapore’s top family law firms by the Straits Times, Asian Legal Business, Benchmark Litigation, and Dolyes Guide.
Why Our Clients Choose Us
1. Transparent, Fixed Fees
Fees that are affordable, fixed and transparent is crucial. You should know your legal costs upfront, without any surprises. Our fixed-fee packages provide peace of mind from day one.
- $1,690 for an uncontested divorce with no children, property, or maintenance issues.
- $2,690 for an uncontested divorce with children, property, or maintenance issues.
- For contested divorce – fees depend on complexity.
2. Award-Winning Firm
We are consistently recognised as one of Singapore’s leading family law firms:
- The Straits Times – Ranked for 6 consecutive years
- Doyle’s Guide – Ranked for 10 consecutive years
- Benchmark Litigation – Featured in 6 editions
- Asian Legal Business – Recognised for 8 straight years
3. A Proven Track Record of Court Success
However, when a fair settlement cannot be reached, you can be confident in our ability to protect your interests in court. Our track record speaks for itself. We have successfully represented clients in the Family Court, High Court, and the Court of Appeal, handling some of Singapore’s most complex and high-profile divorce cases. Our extensive courtroom experience ensures you have a strong advocate by your side, no matter how complicated your situation.
Our victories at the highest levels include:
- Court of Appeal – From 25% to 75% Asset Increase: In TQU v TQT [2020] SGCA 08, our Family Law team achieved a remarkable result for our client at the Court of Appeal, raising his share of the matrimonial assets from 25% to 75% – an increase from S$3.4 million to S$10.2 million. The Court described the matter as “complicated,” “challenging,” and “highly unusual,” emphasising the difficult legal questions involved and the substantial impact of the judgment.
- Uncovering $3 Million in Hidden Assets: We successfully acted for a wife in the High Court, uncovering over $3 million in assets her husband had “gone all out to hide” (as reported in The Straits Times).
- 72.5% of Assets Awarded: We recently achieved a significant result for a client, who was awarded 72.5% of the matrimonial assets, amounting to over $2.7 million (XIK v XIL [2025] SGHCF 16).
- $6.3 Million Victory for Homemaker Wife: Our team helped our client to secure over $6.3 million in matrimonial assets after a six-year legal battle against a five-member legal team led by a Senior Counsel (WOS v WOT [2024] SGHC(A) 11).
- Court of Appeal Landmark Case: We successfully argued in one of the first Court of Appeal cases under Singapore’s new law on the division of matrimonial assets (Twiss, Christopher James Hans v Twiss, Yvonne Prendergast [2015] SGCA 52).
4. An Experienced Family Law Team
We have one of the largest dedicated family law teams in Singapore, powered by the award-winning team at PKWA Law. This means we have the resources, manpower, and collective expertise to handle a high volume of cases with precision. You benefit from a deep bench of knowledge and support.
Our lawyers are trained Accredited Mediators with the Singapore Mediation Centre and Accredited Collaborative Family Practitioners (CFP), ensuring we bring both legal expertise and mediation skills to every case
5. Excellent Client Satisfaction
Our reputation is our most valuable asset. We take pride in the trust our clients place in us, and their words are the best testament to our professionalism, empathy, and positive results.
6. Calm Outcomes
Our goal is to help you find a fair solution without a long and stressful court fight. We handle every case with respect, and in a calm, strategic manner, ensuring a professional and dignified process for everyone.
How We Guide You Through the Divorce Process
1. Filing for divorce
- We prepare and file the Writ for Divorce, Statement of Claim, and Statement of Particulars.
- If there are children under 21, we assist you to complete the Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) before filing. Both parents must complete this course.
2. Preparing for Your Interim Judgment of Divorce
- If uncontested, the Court typically issues the Interim Judgment in about four weeks.
- This marks the official recognition that the marriage has broken down.
3. Protecting Your Interests in the Ancillary Matters Hearing
- The Court decides on key issues such as:
- Custody, care and control, and access arrangements for children
- Division of matrimonial assets (HDB flat, CPF savings, investments, etc.)
- Maintenance for the wife and/or children
- We will use mediation to encourage settlement and reduce conflict.
4. Final Judgment
- Three months after the Interim Judgment, we will extract the Final Judgment.
- This legally and formally dissolves the marriage.
Take Your First Step: A Free Consultation
We offer a free first consultation to help you understand your options for a divorce. During your first free consultation with us, our divorce lawyers will:
- Assess your eligibility – check if you meet the legal conditions for divorce in Singapore.
- Identify the right approach – explain which ground for divorce (mutual agreement, unreasonable behaviour, separation, etc.) is best suited to your case.
- Guide you step by step – walk you through the divorce process so you know the Singapore divorce process.
- Explain the Singapore general law on divorce.
- Explore your options – whether your divorce is best suited for simplified uncontested divorce or contested, we help you choose the most practical and cost-effective route.
Contact Us
Tel: +65 6854 5336
WhatsApp: +65 9090 3158
Email: enquiry@pkwalaw.com
About Singapore Family Lawyers
Singapore Family Lawyers is a family law resource site and is powered by the award-winning team at PKWA Law. PKWA Law is consistently recognised as one of Singapore’s leading family law firms.
Fixed, Clear & Transparent Fees
Uncontested Divorce
$1,690
No children, property or maintenance
$2,690
With children, property and maintenance
Our Lawyers in the Media
Featured Divorce Lawyers
Singapore Divorce Lawyers’ featured lawyers are regularly recognised in leading publications such as Doyles Guide, The Straits Times, Benchmark Litigation, Asian Legal Business, Singapore Business Review and more.
Low Jin Liang
Head, Family Law
Jessica Chow
Associate Director, Family Law
Rebecca Yeo
Associate Director, Family Law & General Litigation
Derek Choo Heng Han
Associate Director, Family Law
Work With an Award Winning Team
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the legal grounds for divorce in Singapore?
In Singapore, the only ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage under the Women’s Charter. This must be proven by one of six facts: adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion for at least two years, separation for three years with consent, separation for four years without consent, or Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA). The Court must be satisfied that the marriage has broken down permanently and cannot be saved. Fault-based grounds (like adultery or unreasonable behaviour) may affect how the Court views maintenance or custody, but the division of assets is usually assessed separately.
Who can apply for divorce in Singapore?
Either spouse can apply for divorce if they meet the residency and marriage duration requirements. At least one party must be a Singapore Citizen, domiciled in Singapore, or habitually resident here for three years before filing. In most cases, you must also have been married for at least three years. The Court may allow an earlier filing in exceptional cases of hardship or cruelty. Divorce is filed in the Family Justice Courts, and the applicant must show that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.
What is Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA)?
Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) is a no-fault divorce option introduced on 1 July 2024. Both spouses can file jointly to confirm that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, without needing to prove adultery, desertion, or unreasonable behaviour. To use DMA, both parties must agree in writing on:
- Why they believe the marriage has broken down,
- Efforts at reconciliation, and
- Proposed arrangements for children and finances.
The Court will review and grant the divorce if it finds the agreement fair. DMA reduces blame, encourages cooperation, and helps families move forward with less conflict.
What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorces?
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all key issues: division of assets, custody and care of children, and maintenance. It is usually faster, simpler, and more affordable, often taking about four to six months. A contested divorce arises when parties cannot agree on one or more issues. These cases are often more complex and emotionally charged, requiring Court hearings, written submissions, and rounds of mediation. Contested divorces may take 12-18 months or more, depending on the number and complexity of disputes.
Do I need a lawyer for divorce in Singapore?
While it is legally possible to file for divorce on your own, engaging a lawyer is strongly recommended. Divorce involves more than just ending a marriage-it includes dividing assets, deciding on custody and maintenance, and ensuring compliance with Court rules. Mistakes in self-filed divorces may cause delays, added costs, or unenforceable agreements. An experienced family lawyer ensures your rights are protected, documents are properly prepared, and long-term interests-such as HDB ownership, CPF refunds, or child custody-are fully considered.
Does adultery count as a ground for divorce in Singapore?
Yes. Adultery is one of the legally recognised facts under the Women’s Charter to prove that a marriage has irretrievably broken down. If you file on this ground, you must show two things:
- That your spouse has committed adultery, and
- That you find it intolerable to continue living with them.
Proving adultery can be difficult because the Court requires credible evidence. This may include a private investigator’s report, hotel records, text messages, or a clear admission from the spouse. Suspicion alone is not enough.
If direct proof is unavailable, many people instead file under unreasonable behaviour, which may cover inappropriate relationships or unexplained overnight absences.
It is important to note that adultery itself does not usually affect division of assets or custody, but it may influence the Court’s view on spousal maintenance or parental fitness in rare cases.
How much does divorce cost in Singapore?
Uncontested divorce fees in Singapore usually start from about $1.6k for cases with no children, property, or maintenance issues. Where an uncontested divorce involves children, assets and maintenance, fees generally start from about $2.6k, as additional legal work and documents are required.
For contested divorces, the cost varies. Fees depend on what is being disputed, how complex the issues are, and the amount of time needed in negotiations or court. Because every contested case is different, lawyers will usually provide a quote after understanding the situation.
Click here to view PKWA Law’s fixed-fee divorce packages.
What Our Clients Say
I highly recommend PKWA Law for their exceptional legal support during my divorce case. Their professionalism and deep empathy made a challenging process much more manageable. They took the time to understand my situation, and their guidance was invaluable. I truly appreciate their dedication and strong advocacy during this challenging time. Thank you PKWA Law, for being such a strong advocate—I couldn’t have navigated this without you.
PKWA’s Jessica and Corinne are pleasant to work with, professional and reliable. My case was smooth and successful. Thumbs up!
I would like to express my appreciation to Jessica and Jason for their good service and efficiency. The whole process was smooth and hassle free. They were also responsive to my queries and prompt in their follow ups. Highly recommended to engage them.
I am very happy with their customer oriented service provided. It saves our time to get things done. People are friendly and helpful. We always get our answer whenever there is an issue, they really guide you through patiently. Highly recommended not just because of fixed cost.
Working overseas, it was not easy to balance the time-consuming, emotionally-draining, financial stresses and uncertainties of divorce in Singapore.
PKWA Law understood my situation and did exceptionally well to communicate clearly, through email, for me to make balanced and legally-advised choices. They listened and interpreted, filtered out things that would not be helpful for the situation, avoided traps & skillfully maneuvered the path, gave assurances and communicated next steps and gave me likely outcomes that I would have had to consider to make the best decisions.
PKWA managed to help me close at Mediation 1 without having to go further to Mediation 2 and the Litigation stages for which I am sincerely thankful.
Latest Articles
Location (By appointment only):
480 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, #16-01, East Wing, HBD Hub, Singapore 310480
© Copyright 2026 Singapore Divorce Lawyers. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy