Thinking about divorce, or sensing it may be on the horizon, can feel overwhelming. That’s why your first consultation with a family lawyer matters.
At GJC Law, we’re here to give you more than legal information, we are re here to help you find clarity during this tough period.
After your initial contact, here’s what typically happens during your first meeting with one of our divorce lawyers, and the possible steps you might take next.
What We’ll Talk About in the First Consultation
Our goal is to help you understand your rights and resposibilities, prepare for what may lie ahead, and make informed choices.
Dividing Property or Assets: What Documents Help
To have a clearer picture of what’s fair in terms of property division, we might ask for documents like:
- Your CPF housing statements (to assess contributions to the home)
- Mortgage or loan documents
- Title deeds showing property ownership
- Receipts for renovations or shared expenses
- Bank or investment statements (especially for joint or major assets)
These help us understand your financial situation and what a fair division might look like under the law.
Read more: The Importance of Financial Disclosure in a Divorce
Children & Parenting Matters
If you have children under 21, planning for their needs comes first. We will explain:
- The differences between custody, care and control, and access
- Preparing a parenting plan so that there is a structure in place for your children
- What the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) is and when to attend
We can also help you start documenting how you have cared for your children during the marriage, this can be useful later on.
Read more: Understanding Parenting Arrangements and Children’s Best Interests in Singapore Divorce Cases
What the Legal Process Looks Like
Whether you are planning to file or think your spouse might, we’ll walk you through:
- What happens after divorce papers are filed
- What deadlines to watch out for if you have been served with documents
- What is needed to start a divorce application, if that is your next step
We may also cover how to handle communication with your spouse and whether mediation might be helpful.
Read more: The Financial and Legal Advantages of Being First to File for Divorce
What You Can Do After the Consultation
Depending on where you’re at, your next steps might include:
- Collecting documents: CPF records, loan statements, receipts, etc.
- Drafting a parenting plan or a schedule for your children
- Signing up for the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme early (if you are likely to file)
- Keeping an eye out for legal correspondence from your spouse—and getting advice before responding
- Reaching out to us if you arere served with divorce papers, so we can help you decide how to proceed
- Requesting extra time, through us, if deadlines become tight
We’re Here When You’re Ready
Whether you’re ready to start divorce proceedings or just gathering information, it’s never too early to get trusted legal advice. At GJC Law, we’ll guide you through the entire process, from timelines and paperwork to parenting arrangements and beyond, so you feel informed and supported every step of the way.
We’re here for you
Our lawyers at GJC Law offer a free 20-minute consultation to explain the divorce process and determine whether you qualify for divorce in Singapore.
Our goal is to help you find a resolution that works for you.
