- The simplified track is for couples who agree on the reason for divorce and on all the ancillary matters.
- Since 1 July 2024, couples who agree to divorce but not on the arrangements can still file an uncontested divorce; the court then decides the open issues.
- Firms' guides estimate about four to six months for a simplified divorce, and a year or more for a contested one.
- Mediation can turn a contested case into an agreed one at almost any stage.
The simplified (uncontested) track
A divorce can go on the simplified track when both spouses agree on the fact relied on for the divorce and on all of the ancillary matters: the care arrangements for the children, maintenance for a spouse or the children, and how the matrimonial assets will be divided.
Couples often reach these terms by talking directly, through lawyers, or with a mediator. Once the papers are filed, the court schedules a hearing, and the spouses generally do not need to attend. If the court is satisfied, it grants an Interim Judgment, and the Final Judgment follows after the three-month waiting period.
Guides from Singapore firms put the whole process at around four to six months when everything is agreed. Divorce by mutual agreement can be used on this track as well.
Agreeing on the divorce but not the details
Since 1 July 2024, spouses who agree that they should divorce, but have not settled the arrangements, can still file the divorce as uncontested. It is not treated as a simplified divorce, because the court will still have to decide the matters that remain open. For many couples this is still less draining than a fully contested case.
Contested divorce
A divorce is contested when one spouse disputes the divorce itself, or when the spouses cannot agree on issues such as the children or the assets. After being served, the other spouse has 14 days to file a notice that they intend to contest, and 28 days to file a reply and any cross-application.
The court then manages the case through a series of conferences. If the divorce itself is disputed, there may be a hearing on whether the marriage has broken down. Once an Interim Judgment is granted, the court sets directions for the ancillary matters, and both sides file evidence about their finances and the children before a judge decides.
Estimates vary: one firm's guide suggests a contested divorce may take a year or more, and another suggests anywhere from six months to a year and a half or longer, depending on how much is disputed.
Moving from contested to agreed
Many cases that start as contested end with agreement. Mediation and counselling are available through the Family Justice Courts, and if the spouses settle the open issues, the case can be completed on agreed terms. This usually saves time and legal costs.
One lawyer cannot act for both of you
Even when a divorce is fully agreed, one lawyer cannot advise or represent both spouses, because their interests can differ. One spouse may choose not to have a lawyer, but should understand what they are agreeing to before signing.
This article is general information on Singapore law and is not legal advice. Rules and agency policies change, and every situation is different. For advice on your own circumstances, speak with one of our lawyers.
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