- Divorce happens in two stages: Interim Judgment, then Final Judgment.
- There is a minimum three-month gap between the two.
- Uncontested divorces are usually finished within about four to six months.
- Contested divorces depend on how many issues are disputed and how they are resolved.
The two stages
A Singapore divorce happens in two stages. First, the court decides whether the marriage has irretrievably broken down. If it is satisfied, it grants an Interim Judgment. Second, the court deals with the ancillary matters: the division of assets, arrangements for the children, and maintenance.
The marriage is only formally ended when the Interim Judgment is made final. The Final Judgment can be obtained once at least three months have passed since the Interim Judgment and the ancillary matters are resolved.
An uncontested divorce
Where both spouses agree on the divorce and every ancillary matter, the process is usually quick:
- Preparing the papers: a few weeks, depending on how quickly the terms are finalised and signed.
- Interim Judgment: commonly within about four to six weeks of filing.
- Waiting period: a minimum of three months.
- Final Judgment: applied for once the three months have passed.
A contested divorce
If you disagree on the divorce itself or on any ancillary matter, it takes longer. Contested matters involve exchanging affidavits and documents, mediation and counselling through the Family Justice Courts, and, if issues are still not resolved, hearings. Six to eighteen months is common. Complex financial disputes, or disputes over the children, can run longer.
What speeds things up
The biggest factor is agreement. Couples who settle the ancillary matters early, even after starting out contested, move onto the faster track. Other things that help:
- Gathering financial documents early, such as CPF statements, bank statements, and property valuations.
- Completing the Co-Parenting Programme before filing, if you have children under 21.
- Being realistic about outcomes, which a clear early assessment of your position supports.
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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