Divorce isn’t just a legal process — it also involves deciding where to live, how long proceedings might take, and what happens if your spouse refuses to cooperate.
These are some of the most common concerns individuals preparing for divorce in Singapore have raised.
At Gloria James-Civetta & Co, we regularly assist clients with questions about residential arrangements, divorce timelines, and the legal divorce procedure in Singapore. This article answers frequently asked questions and provides guidance on navigating the process confidently.
– Do I need to stay in the matrimonial home until the divorce is finalised? – Will moving out early affect the court’s perception or my settlement? – Can my spouse delay or refuse to sign the divorce papers? – How long does the divorce process typically take in Singapore? – Do we need to attend mediation before filing for divorce?
Do I need to stay in the matrimonial home until the divorce is finalised?
No, there is no legal obligation to remain in the matrimonial home during divorce proceedings. However, depending on when you move out, your decision may still affect the court’s evaluation of your indirect contributions to the family.
Learn more about the implications of moving out and how it can affect division of matrimonial assets later in the process.
Will moving out early affect the court’s perception or my settlement?
Possibly. Under Singapore family law, divorce is carried out in two distinct stages:
- Dissolution of marriage (Interim Judgment)
- Ancillary matters, such as division of assets, child custody, and spousal maintenance
The court typically uses the Interim Judgment date as the cut-off to assess each party’s direct and indirect contributions to the marriage.
If you move out before this date, it could reduce the weight of your non-financial contributions, such as caregiving, household responsibilities, or maintaining the home. These contributions are relevant in determining your entitlement to matrimonial property and financial support.
For more on how contributions are assessed, see: How the Court Divides Assets in Divorce.
Can my spouse delay or refuse to sign the divorce papers?
If your spouse does not agree to the divorce, they may contest the divorce application. This means they must:
- File a Notice to Contest within 14 days of service, and
- Submit a Reply (or cross-application) within 28 days
If they fail to respond, you may still proceed by filing a Request to Set Down the Matter for Trial. The court may then fix a hearing date and grant the divorce in their absence. Ancillary matters such as maintenance, child issues, and property division will be dealt with separately.
Read our step-by-step guide to divorce proceedings in Singapore for full details on what to expect.
How long does the divorce process typically take in Singapore (with children, no violence, contested assets)?
- Uncontested divorce: About 4 to 6 months
- Contested divorce or contested ancillary matters: Can take anywhere between 12 and 18 months, depending on:
More on Insights and Guidance from GJC Law.
Do we need to attend mediation before filing for divorce?
No, you are not required to attend mediation before filing. However, if you have children under 21, both parents must complete the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (MCPP) before filing.
What the MCPP involves:
- E-learning module (approx. 1.5 hours)
- Consultation session(s) (1 to 3 sessions depending on family circumstances)
- A Certificate of Completion must be submitted together with the divorce application
If there are children or contested matters after filing, you will be referred to compulsory mediation and counselling, such as the Child Focused Resolution Centre (CFRC).
You can also learn more about Mediation in Divorce Proceedings and how it may help resolve key issues outside of court.
We’re here for you
Having met these considerations, our lawyers will then be able to assist you in taking the formal steps to file a writ of divorce with the Family Justice Court.
Our goal is to help you find a resolution that works for you.
