What's the difference between a contested and an uncontested divorce?

Uncontested divorce

An uncontested divorce is one where you and your spouse agree on both the divorce itself, including the fact relied on, and all the ancillary matters: how assets are divided, arrangements for the children, and maintenance. The court reviews the agreed terms and, if they are in order, grants the divorce without a contested hearing.

Uncontested divorces are usually completed in around four to six months, cost less in legal fees, and keep your private affairs out of contested court proceedings.

Contested divorce

A divorce is contested if you disagree on anything. That might be whether there should be a divorce at all, but more often it is one or two ancillary issues, such as the flat or care and control of the children.

Contested matters go through a structured process at the Family Justice Courts: exchanging affidavits, disclosure of documents, mandatory mediation and counselling where there are children under 21, and, for issues still not resolved, a hearing at which the judge decides.

It's not a fixed label

A divorce can start contested and become uncontested once the parties reach agreement, which happens often, especially after mediation. You can also agree some issues and ask the court to decide only the ones that remain. Narrowing the dispute saves time and cost even when a complete settlement isn't possible.

Agreement isn't the same as a good deal

The speed of an uncontested divorce is a real benefit, but the terms you agree are hard to change later. Before signing, make sure you understand what you are entitled to, what you are giving up, and whether the arrangement will still work in a few years, especially regarding the flat, CPF refunds, and maintenance.