Where To Hire Divorce Lawyers In Singapore 2025

Need help navigating divorce in Singapore? We break down the process, divorce lawyer fees and where to hire experienced divorce lawyers and legal support.

Getting a divorce in Singapore can be challenging, especially if you’re far from your usual support system. It can also be particularly tricky to get divorced here if you’re an expat on a DP or any other visa/pass. But if you have been considering filing for divorce and want a quick understanding of your options, either as a local or an expat, we’ve put together a useful guide to some of the most common FAQs when it comes to divorce in Singapore–this useful downloadable from the Singapore courts is also a great place to start.

If you and your spouse are going through a tough time, it could be worth attending marriage counselling prior to contemplating separation or divorce. If you have already made up your mind to divorce, we’ve shortlisted some top Singapore law firms and divorce lawyers in Singapore to help you get the process going.

Read more: How to break the news of your divorce to the kids

Jump to:
– Singapore Divorce FAQs for Locals & Expats
– Divorce Lawyers in Singapore & Divorce Lawyer Fees

Getting a divorce in Singapore:

You probably have a million questions about how to begin the divorce process. We shortlist the most commonly asked questions about getting a divorce in Singapore.

Read More: ‘How Play Therapy helped my daughter deal with the trauma of divorce

What are the grounds for divorce in Singapore?

In order to file for a divorce, you and your spouse must first meet these requirements:

• Be a Singapore citizen or have lived in Singapore for three continuous years prior to the filing of a divorce application.
• Have been married for at least three years.
• You both are married under civil law. Marriages under Syariah law should be filed for divorce in the Syariah Court.

You will require leave of court (permission) if your marriage is less than three years. This typically requires exceptional circumstances such as abuse, desertion etc, and is filed on top of your divorce application.

Click here if you have more questions about getting a divorce in Singapore.

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Do I need a divorce lawyer in Singapore?

You can get divorced without a lawyer in Singapore, as you do not need legal representation to file for a divorce. However, a divorce lawyer can provide you with independent legal advice, especially if your divorce is not an amicable one.

There are a few routes for divorce in Singapore:

Contested divorce
A contested divorce is where you and your spouse are unable to agree on the terms for issues such as child custody. As such, couples divorcing this way will have to attend a trial to provide evidence that supports their respective claims and cases on how these issues should be resolved.

These divorce proceedings can be challenging and may require plenty of time to resolve before the court can grant you an interim judgment. Click here to find out more about the processes for a contested divorce in Singapore.

Simplified uncontested divorce 
Previously, the sole reason for getting a divorce in Singapore was the “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage, which had to be proven by one or more of these five facts: adultery, unreasonable behaviour and desertion, separation of three years with consent, or separation of four years without consent.

In 2022, Singapore passed a bill to minimise acrimonious divorce proceedings called “divorce by mutual agreement”, though this law has yet to be in force. In simpler terms, this allows couples to agree that the divorce is by mutual agreement without accusing or blaming one another. This fact can be cited in a simplified uncontested divorce, whereby you agree that your marriage has broken down and you’ve come to an agreement on all issues in your divorce, such as child custody, financial matters and other ancillary issues.

Click here to read more about the differences between a simplified uncontested divorce and an amicable divorce, and the processes for each one.

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How much are divorce lawyer fees in Singapore?

In general, divorce lawyers charge between $150-$500 for a pre-divorce consultation (while some divorce lawyers may offer a free initial consultation). At the consultation, your divorce lawyer will run through your options with you after hearing your case and situation. Uncontested divorce costs typically range from $1,500 to $3,500, while a contested divorce could cost between $10,000 $35,000.

However, these are merely ballpark figures that depend on your divorce lawyer’s charges, disbursements or GST or the type of divorce package offered by your divorce lawyer of choice. You can ask your lawyer upfront about an “all-in” cost structure, inclusive of GST, court filing fees and other disbursements.

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Does my divorce lawyer also handle child custody?

Yes. Divorce lawyers in Singapore typically assist divorcing parties with issues such as child custody, spousal maintenance and property division. The best way to determine this is to consult a divorce lawyer in Singapore (see below) to determine your needs prior to filing for a divorce.

It should be noted that in certain child custody disputes, the court may ask the Ministry of Social and Family Development to investigate and produce a “social report” before a decision is made. This typically applies when parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, when concerns about access to the children are raised by either party or if the Court has other concerns.

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How do I get a divorce in Singapore? What documents will I need?

The party seeking a divorce must initiate the process by filing specific documents in the Family Justice Courts. Do note that Singapore’s divorce filing process changed on 15 October 2024. As of 15 October 2024, the process and forms have changed under the new Family Justice (General) Rules 2024. The documents you need depend on when your application was filed.

For divorces filed on or after 15 October 2024, the filing process now uses new forms under the Family Justice (General) Rules 2024. These include:

• Originating Application for Divorce (Simplified or Normal Track): This is the main form used to start divorce proceedings. It replaces the old Writ for Divorce and sets out key details, including who is filing, the type of divorce (simplified or contested), and the reliefs sought.
• Affidavit of Evidence in Chief (AEIC): A sworn statement from the person filing for divorce that outlines the facts of the marriage and the reasons why it has broken down. It also includes any supporting evidence or documents.
• Draft Ancillary Reliefs Order: A proposed outline of what you are asking the court to decide on. For example, custody of children, maintenance or division of matrimonial property. This helps the court understand your requested outcomes.
• Certificate of Completion of Parenting/Co-Parenting Programme: This is only required if there are children under 21 years old. It shows that you’ve completed the mandatory programme to help parents support their children through the divorce process.
• Proof of Service (such as an Affidavit of Service): This document confirms that the divorce papers have been properly delivered to your spouse, as required by the court.

If you are representing yourself, the filing can be done via eLitigation (for subscribers of the service) or Divorce eService (you will need SingPass to access this). There are filing fees, too, and you can click here for a list of chargeable fees for e-filing.

Note: If you have already successfully filed for divorce in another country, Singapore’s courts cannot grant you another divorce here. And while prenuptial agreements are a great way to begin an amicable divorce proceeding, the Singapore court may decline to uphold them if they go against the requirements in the Women’s Charter. Click here to find out more about filing for a divorce as an expat in Singapore.

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What are the stages of getting a divorce in Singapore?

Divorce in Singapore is a two-stage process, no matter the type of divorce. First, there is the dissolution of marriage, where the courts determine that the marriage has “irretrievably broken down”. This will result in the passing of an Interim Judgment that officially dissolves your marriage.

It is followed by the ancillary matters stage, where the court decides how spousal maintenance, child custody and other affairs should be handled. You can apply to make the Interim Judgment final three months after receiving it, or if you have settled all your ancillary matters. Upon this, you will receive a Certificate of Final Judgment, which concludes all divorce proceedings.

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What happens to our HDB flat or private property if we get a divorce?

This depends on what is considered a matrimonial asset. These include assets “acquired by one or both parties during the marriage, used by one or both parties or their children for various purposes or acquired before the marriage but substantially improved in quality during the marriage” – as per section 112(10) of the Women’s Charter.

Common assets include the family car, CPF cash balances, jewellery, businesses, the matrimonial home where you both lived with your children while married and more. In the ancillary matters stage of your divorce in Singapore, the court will consider the extent of each party’s financial contribution towards “obtaining, maintaining and improving the asset”; non-financial contributions (caregiving, child-rearing or the extent of support given by one party to the other to pursue their career); debts owed; the needs of the children, and also the needs and financial independence of both parties after the divorce.

Additionally, there are several other ways the division of your HDB flat or private property is determined. For example, you and your partner could agree on terms regarding the property prior to filing – you may transfer your share to your partner, or the property can be sold and the proceeds split between both parties.

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Is a marriage annulment the same as getting a divorce?

No, it is not. An annulment is where couples “dissolve a marriage and declare it null”. These typically occur on grounds such as fraud, mental illness, bigamy or underage marriage, forced consent or failure to disclose personal details such as criminal history, impotence or an STD. Either party can initiate an annulment, and you’ll need to submit evidence of your claim.

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Can expats get divorced in Singapore?

Yes, but this only applies where at least one party has a strong connection to Singapore. This is when one party is either:

• Domiciled in Singapore: You have a permanent home here (not applicable to expats who are here for temporary work purposes or to study).
• Habitually resident in Singapore: At least one party has been a resident in Singapore for at least three years immediately before applying for divorce in Singapore. In cases where there are long absences – for example, if one party has spent long periods of time out of Singapore during the course of the marriage – this may be categorised as a “break in continuity” of your residence. Business trips or brief holidays are typically not counted.

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What happens to my PR, DP or LVTP after I file for a divorce in Singapore?

If you’re a long-term visit pass (LTVP) holder with a Singaporean spouse, then the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will generally facilitate the renewal of your pass until the end of your divorce proceedings, if you have a Singaporean child and a local sponsor to support your application.

Should your spouse choose not to renew your LTVP, ICA will consider other mitigating factors for you to stay in Singapore. Your LTVP will also be renewed should you have custody of your Singaporean children. Singapore PRs generally retain their residency status until the point of expiry, after which you can apply for PR status that is non-spousal dependent or simply renew your re-entry permit (REP); this depends entirely on ICA rules, however.

DP holders whose passes are dependent on the spouse will typically have these revoked after the divorce has been granted. You will be issued a temporary 30-day Short Term Visit Pass. In these 30 days, DP holders going through a divorce may seek employment in Singapore in order to qualify for an employment pass or a work permit or request an extension of the Short Term Visit Pass where needed.

Hague Convention laws may also apply to your situation, making it difficult to leave Singapore after a divorce. However, these outcomes will vary entirely, depending on your personal circumstances, the type of divorce you are undergoing and ICA’s rules in general. As such, it might be more favourable for you to file for divorce in a jurisdiction that is favourable to you (your birth country or the country where you were married, for example). The best way to determine the right answer for your situation is to consult a divorce lawyer in Singapore.

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Where to find a divorce lawyer in Singapore

Beyond Legal LLC: Divorce lawyer who was a former District Judge

Beyond Legal LLC stands out for its compassionate yet strategic approach to family law in Singapore. Each matter, whether involving divorce, custody, maintenance, or asset division, is handled with insight, precision and a commitment to achieving what is right for clients. Clement Yong, a former District Judge in the Family Justice Courts, leads the firm’s family law practice with calm, strategy, and empathy. These qualities have shaped its reputation for providing clear and results-driven guidance across a broad range of legal matters. Drawing on his judicial experience, Clement understands how judges think, how evidence is assessed, and how to position each case for the best possible outcome. Whether in negotiation or in court, he ensures that every matter is approached with foresight and care.

Clement is known for his professionalism, clear communication, and practical approach to family law. Divorce proceedings are often emotionally charged, but he helps clients navigate them with composure and purpose by balancing empathy with a focus on constructive, lasting solutions. At Beyond Legal LLC, he provides personalised service that blends legal precision with an understanding of the human aspects of family conflict. He also advises on prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements and assists clients in obtaining Personal Protection Orders (PPOs) under Singapore law to safeguard victims of family violence.

Quote SASSYBL to get a complimentary 20-minute consultation!

Beyond Legal LLC, 1 Pickering Street #08-01, Great Eastern Centre, Singapore 048659, www.divorce-lawyer-singapore.sg

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Emerald Law: Syariah Law divorce cases

If you’re seeking a divorce under Syariah law, Emerald Law offers clear, practical guidance backed by decades of experience. Formerly known as B. Rao & K.S. Rajah, the firm has been serving families in Singapore since the 1980s and is well-known for its expertise in both civil and Syariah family law. The team handles a full range of family matters, including uncontested and contested divorces, division of matrimonial assets and child custody and maintenance, helping clients navigate both legal and personal considerations with confidence.

As a full-service firm, they also manage corporate, criminal and property cases. They take a practical, empathetic approach, offering clear advice that balances legal and personal considerations. They prioritise amicable settlements and mediation where possible, aiming to reduce conflict, cost and emotional strain. Known for their straightforward advice and professionalism, Emerald Law’s lawyers ensure clients are well-informed at every step, with transparent communication and clear fee structures.

Emerald Law, #11-10 Shenton House, Singapore 068805, www.muslimlawyersg.com

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Sterling Law Corporation: Divorce lawyers with over 30 years of experience

With over 30 years of experience, Sterling Law Corporation is recognised for its trusted expertise in family and divorce law in Singapore. The Family Law Department @ Sterling Law Corporation handles a wide range of family law matters, including divorce and separation (both contested and uncontested), child custody and maintenance, alimony and property division and protection orders against domestic violence. They also assist with divorce mediation, offering a calmer, more cost-effective path for couples seeking amicable resolutions.

Known for their client-centred service, the lawyers at Sterling Law maintain prompt communication and professional discretion. A key focus of the firm lies in its child-focused solutions, which prioritise outcomes that safeguard children’s best interests and promote family stability. Backed by a proven track record in both mediation and court proceedings, the firm is consistently recommended by clients for its professionalism, empathy and reliability.

Sterling Law Corporation, 137 Telok Ayer Street, Hokkien Huay Kuan Building #07-04, Singapore 068602, bestdivorcelawyer.com.sg

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Derrick Soh Law Corporation: Experienced divorce lawyers

Derrick Soh Law Corporation is a law firm dedicated to helping clients navigate the complex challenges and stress of a divorce. Lawyers Derrick Soh and Samantha Soh are on hand to guide you through the divorce process. They have experience handling all aspects of divorce—both contested and uncontested—relating to relocation, maintenance, child custody and the division of assets.

They have assisted in resolving a wide range of disputes, with a focus on achieving fair and constructive outcomes for their clients. Whether you want to reach out to understand your rights and get a feel of how the divorce process works or engage a lawyer to take on your case urgently, the lawyers at Derrick Soh Law Corporation pride themselves on getting to know their clients and fully understanding their immediate needs and long-term interests so they can help them reach a satisfactory resolution. Ask about their bespoke fee structure that fits your legal needs and budget.

Derrick Soh Law Corporation, 77 High Street, #08-03, High Street Plaza, Singapore 179433, www.derricksohlawcorp.com

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Amy Lim Law Practice: Divorce lawyer with experience in expat divorce

Founding partner Amy Lim is a survivor of a protracted and acrimonious divorce herself, and brings her unique perspective to the table for all her clients. She is particularly passionate about helping women in abusive or disadvantaged situations. Amy and her team work to map out a strategy that suits your needs and aim to support you from the beginning until the end of the proceedings. Amy is also an accredited family mediator, trained in Cross-Border Family Mediation and has experience in dealing with family disputes involving expats.

Amy Lim Law Practice, 1 North Bridge Road, High Street Centre, #08-08, Singapore 179094, www.amylimlaw.com/

Gloria James-Civetta & Co (GJC Law): Divorce lawyer in Singapore

Bilingual in English and Mandarin, founder Gloria James-Civetta has more than two decades of experience in local and expat divorces in Singapore. Some of her services include custody battles, child abduction matters, consent orders and cross-border divorces involving jurisdictions like the UK, Australia, USA, Europe, China and other Southeast Asian countries. In addition to being a divorce lawyer in Singapore, Gloria is also a Family Justice Court-appointed child representative and parenting coordinator lawyer – she represents children in high-conflict or contested family court proceedings.

Gloria James-Civetta & Co, 3 Church Street, Samsung Hub, # 15-04, Singapore 049483, www.gjclaw.com.sg

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Han & Lu Law Chambers LLP: Boutique law firm with divorce lawyers

Boutique law firm Han & Lu Law Chambers LLP puts its clients’ legal goals first. Known for their personal attention and advocacy, their small team of lawyers is known for being patient, informative and responsive. The firm handles all aspects of family law, including divorce, maintenance claims, contentious disputes and more, as well as other practice areas such as estate planning, civil litigation and more.

Han & Lu Law Chambers LLP, 101 Cecil Street, Tong Eng Building #12-08, Singapore 069533, www.hanlu.sg

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I.R.B Law LLP: Divorce lawyers under the Syariah Law

IRB Law’s team of divorce lawyers in Singapore work to find solutions that suit you in a non-confrontational and constructive manner. They also undertake other issues such as prenuptial agreements, division of matrimonial assets and child custody. IRB also is experienced in Syariah law practice and can advise clients on all aspects of divorcing under Syariah law in Singapore. Clients report IRB Law to be efficient and effective. Read more about IRB Law here!

I.R.B Law LLP, multiple locations in Singapore including Jurong and Mountbatten, www.irblaw.com.sg

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PKWA Law: Award-winning divorce lawyers

This award-winning Singapore law firm specialises in various areas of family law, including divorce and annulments, custody, prenups and more. The goal is to settle your divorce in Singapore as amicably as possible, and the team offers a free first consultation so you know how to best proceed. Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, PKWA Law’s divorce lawyer fees are fixed, clear and transparent from the outset, starting from just $1,290.

PKWA Law, multiple locations in Singapore including Raffles Place, Jurong and Tampines, www.pkwalaw.com

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Populus Law: Affordable divorce lawyers in Singapore

If you’re looking for one of the most affordable divorce lawyers in Singapore, we’ve heard good things about Javern Sim. His fee includes one in-person phone call to discuss your divorce terms and one round of edits for the required paperwork to file for a divorce in Singapore. The process for a simple uncontested divorce can be completed within three months, and Javern can handle everything via Whatsapp. He will then make an appointment for you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse at the Commissioner of Oath where you will sign the papers manually – easily completed within 5 minutes.

Populus Law, 2 Havelock Road, Havelock II, #05-14, Singapore 059763, www.populuslaw.com.sg

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Tembusu Law: Popular divorce lawyers

This Singapore law firm comprises some of the best divorce lawyers in Singapore and is committed to guiding you through each step of the process. In addition to contested and uncontested divorces, Tembusu Law can handle spousal maintenance matters, matrimonial assets, deeds of separation and other divorce-related issues and requirements. The firm offers a free consultation too, as its team of pro bono lawyers can offer free legal advice and counsel in Singapore.

Tembusu Law, 11 Keng Cheow Street, #02-05 The Riverside Piazza, Singapore 059608, www.tembusulaw.com

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Yeo & Associates LLC: Divorce lawyers with free consultation

Yeo & Associates offers a full range of family law services and, like other Singapore law firms, also offers a free, initial 30-minute consultation to get you started. The team will provide you with a comprehensive consultation that covers the necessary proceedings for divorce in Singapore, the costs and all your available options. Their rates are among the most affordable and competitive in the market, with a promise of zero hidden fees.

Yeo & Associates LLC, 101A Upper Cross Street #12-13 People’s Park Centre, Singapore 058358, www.yeolaw.com.sg

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