First published: 28 November 2022 @ 6:00 pm
In Singapore, the divorce process has two stages: dissolution of marriage and ancillary matters stage.
The Court divides the divorce process into two stages because the dissolution of the marriage stage only deals with formal divorce proceedings.
Meanwhile, the stage of the ancillary matter deals with all other issues related to family law, such as maintenance, property division, and custody of children.
Dissolution of Marriage
It’s not always easy to get separated from your spouse. The procedures to apply for a divorce are simple if it is an Uncontested Divorce; they become complicated if it is a Contested Divorce.
Contested Divorce happens when your spouse refuses to divorce you or both of you can’t agree on divorce settlements. That’s why, in order to begin the divorce proceedings in Singapore, you must first prove to the Court that your marriage has irreparably fallen apart.
Proof of these events can support your the dissolution of your marriage
- Adultery
- Unreasonable behavior
- Desertion
- Separation
Unless you prove that one or more of these events have occurred, the Court can invoke your divorce application.
Ancillary Matters
In the stage of the ancillary matter, you and your spouse will need to agree on the division of matrimonial assets, property division, and custody of children.
The Court can decide this stage of the divorce process. If you cannot reach an agreement during this stage, then you can request that a judge decide the issue instead.
Tips to Make a Successful Divorce
Divorce is a complicated process that can become complicated. But the tips listed below will help you get a quick and painless divorce.
1. Understand the Law
Before you file for divorce, you should familiarize yourself with the law. This will ensure that you can file for a proper and successful divorce.
2. Understand Your Position
Divorce can be painful, especially if you have children who will be affected by it. So it is important to know your position and understand what your rights are.
Also, know what you can expect from your ex-spouse during the process. This will help prevent misunderstandings and lead to a faster, more efficient divorce process.
3. Prepare for Fee Beforehand
Divorce is not cheap, but it is not very expensive either, depending on how well-prepared you are for it.
If you don’t care to prepare your case properly, then it may end up costing you more than if you properly prepare it before filing for divorce in Singapore courts.
4. Hire a Professional
If you are planning to divorce in Singapore, then you should hire a professional to help you. This will help make sure that everything goes smoothly.
Hiring a professional is also a good idea because they will assist you with all the paperwork and give you legal advice as well.
5. Be Rational About the Divorce
Divorce is a very emotional process and you may feel very emotional when you are going through the divorce process.
But this should not be a reason to avoid the divorce process. This will only make things more difficult and could cause more problems in your life.
So it is important to remain calm during the divorce process.
6. Seek Counselling if You Need It
If you are going through a divorce and you need counseling, don’t deprive yourself of one. This will help you through the divorce process and prevent more problems.
7. Work Out an Alimony Agreement if Needed
If you are not happy with your current spouse’s financial situation, then you should try to work out an alimony agreement with them.
This will ensure that your spouse will be able to support themselves financially after the divorce.
It will also allow you to save some money on your alimony payments, which is always good for everyone involved in a divorce.
8. Protect Your Assets During the Divorce Process
During the divorce process, there are a lot of assets your ex-spouse could put at risk. If they decide to sue you for assets during the divorce, then you must do everything in your power to protect these assets.
It is important that before filing for divorce, you try to determine what these assets are. That way, your attorney can get proper paperwork and evidence to protect them.
Prepare for An Emotional Process
Divorce is a very emotional process, but if you are prepared, you can get through it with minimal stress. This article has outlined the steps you can take to make sure that your divorce process goes smoothly.
Our blog, Mature Parent, also has an article on co-parenting and child development. Check them out now!
