The cost of a divorce in Singapore depends on whether the matter is uncontested or contested, the issues that need to be resolved and the amount of legal work required.
An uncontested divorce may be handled on a fixed-fee basis, while costs for a contested divorce can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case.
This guide explains divorce lawyer fees in Singapore, our fixed-fee uncontested divorce packages, factors that may increase legal costs, how fees are managed and what you should understand about the scope of work before engaging a divorce lawyer.
- Uncontested divorce lawyer fees may be offered on a fixed-fee basis where both parties have reached agreement.
- Divorce costs depend on whether the matter is uncontested or contested and the issues that need to be resolved.
- Disputes involving children, maintenance, property or matrimonial assets can increase the work and costs involved.
- Mediation and negotiation may help parties resolve issues without prolonged court proceedings.
- GJC Law sets out the scope of work and applicable fees in a written Warrant to Act and provides updated estimates if the scope changes.
How much does it cost to get a divorce in Singapore?
Uncontested divorce lawyer fees in Singapore will depend on the circumstances of the divorce and the issues that need to be dealt with. Where both spouses have reached agreement on the divorce and all ancillary matters, GJC Law offers fixed-fee packages for a Simplified Uncontested Divorce.
Our fixed-fee packages are from $1,500 for an uncontested divorce where there are no children or property issues, and from $2,500 where the divorce involves children, maintenance and/or property matters. The appropriate package will depend on the circumstances of the marriage and the matters that need to be included in the divorce documents.
A fixed-fee arrangement can provide greater certainty over divorce lawyer fees where the matter remains uncontested and within the agreed scope of work. If additional work becomes necessary or the matter becomes contested, we will explain the additional scope and costs involved.
For a contested divorce, legal fees start from $3,000 and will depend on the complexity of the case, the number of disputed issues and the amount of work required. Costs may increase where the divorce involves disputes over matters such as child custody, care and control, access, maintenance or the division of matrimonial assets, or where court applications, mediation or hearings are required.
What can I do to control the cost of the divorce?
Any of the following:
- Comply with Court directions. Work together with your lawyers to provide documents, information and instructions in an organised and timely fashion.
- Approach alternate dispute resolution, such as Court-directed mediation, seriously. Where parties are able to resolve issues in mediation or negotiations, they avoid litigation, which is both costly and stressful.
- As much as possible, communicate with your spouse directly on issues not immediately related to the divorce. Communicating with your spouse through lawyers’ letters where it is not necessary would only increase costs.
- Keep an open mind to your lawyer’s advice. This is particularly so where your lawyer is advising you on the risks and benefits of accepting a settlement compared to proceeding towards a hearing. However, you should always feel free to raise your concerns with your lawyer.
- Keep any ill-feeling towards your spouse out of the divorce proceedings. While this is always easier said than done, animosity towards an estranged spouse does not help you in the divorce proceedings, and only complicates matters and increases costs.
What is likely to increase the cost of the divorce?
Some things that would increase the cost of the divorce include:
- Taking out court applications will certainly increase the cost of the divorce. In certain cases, such applications may be necessary (e.g. summons for interim maintenance or summons for access to children while divorce proceedings are ongoing). Have a frank discussion with your lawyer on your circumstances and the necessity and practicality of any court applications.
- Choosing to litigate matters where they may be resolved through mediation and compromise.
- Failing to meet Court directions and timelines. This protracts your matter unnecessarily. To make matters worse, the Court may order costs against you for failing to adhere to timelines.
How Are Divorce Costs Managed?
We aim to provide clarity and peace of mind by offering fixed fees or a clear fee range from the outset. These are outlined in a written agreement (Warrant to Act), so you’ll know what to expect at each stage of the process.
In contested cases, costs generally increase depending on the number and complexity of the disputed issues. As a general guide, the cost of a contested divorce starts from $3,000 upwards. If there’s any change in scope along the way, we’ll keep you informed with updated cost estimates and revised agreements, so there are no surprises.
How often will I receive a bill?
We will render you a bill after each stage of work done.
What Does the Warrant to Act Cover?
The Warrant to Act, typically forming part of the Letter of Engagement, records your authority for the lawyer or law firm to act on your behalf. The Letter of Engagement should clearly set out the scope of legal work, the applicable fee arrangements, any initial deposit, and the respective responsibilities of the law firm and client.
It may also explain who will handle your matter, how disbursements and billing are dealt with, and what happens if additional work falls outside the original scope. This is particularly important in divorce matters, as an initially uncontested matter may require additional work and fees if disputes later arise over children, maintenance, matrimonial assets or other issues.
Before signing, you should understand what work is included, what is excluded and when additional fees may apply. You should also keep a copy of the signed Letter of Engagement for your records.
We’re Here for You
We offer a range of consultation options depending on the guidance you need, from a Free 20-minute Divorce Process Consultation to a Strategic Divorce Consultation for personalised legal advice.
Contact us and we can help you choose the right option for your circumstances.
