Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Jurong East

About Divorce & Separation Law in Jurong East, Singapore

In Jurong East, Singapore, divorce and separation laws are guided by the Women's Charter. This legislation, designed to protect the rights of both parties in a marriage, covers a broad range of issues, including the grounds for divorce, division of matrimonial assets, and custody and care-control access of children. It's important to know that the court only grants a divorce if it's satisfied that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Divorce and separation proceedings can be incredibly complex. This complexity intensifies when there are issues such as property division, child custody, alimony, and child support to consider. A lawyer can provide valuable advice and guidance, ensuring you understand all of your rights and responsibilities. They can also help you navigate the often convoluted legal waters, advocating for your interests throughout the proceedings.

Local Laws Overview

The Women's Charter in Singapore lays out the prerequisites for divorce. To file for divorce, you or your spouse must be domiciled (treat Singapore as your permanent home) or have lived in Singapore for at least 3 years before the divorce application. The marriage must be more than 3 years old, and there must be proof of a broken down marriage beyond repair.

The Charter also outlines 4 specific grounds for proving that a marriage is irreparable: adultery, unreasonable behavior, desertion, and living apart for three years with consent or four years without. The court puts children's welfare at the forefront, merging child custody issues under one roof - The Family Justice Courts. In matters of asset division, the court looks at direct and indirect contributions of each party.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the divorce process take?

Uncontested divorces can take as little as 1 month while contested divorces can stretch over 18 months or more depending on the complexity of the issues.

2. Can I file for divorce if my spouse and I agree on the terms?

Yes, this is known as an uncontested divorce and it's a shorter and less costly process.

3. What happens if my spouse refuses to divorce?

If your spouse refuses to cooperate, you can still proceed with the divorce. Failure to respond does not prevent the divorce from happening, but it can prolong the process.

4. How are matrimonial assets divided?

The court considers factors like financial contributions to the household, contributions to the welfare of the family, and agreements between parties when deciding on asset division.

5. Who gets custody of the children?

Custody of children is based on their best interests. The court may grant either joint custody or sole custody. Often, day-to-day care, known as care and control, is granted to one parent, usually the mother, in straightforward cases.

Additional Resources

For additional resources, one can refer to the Singapore Statutes Online for full text of the legislation, Law Society Pro Bono Services for free legal advice, and Family Justice Courts for comprehensive guides on Family law related matters. Beyond these, various non-profit organizations offer counselling and support for those going through a divorce.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance, consider reaching out to family law practitioners in Jurong East. Initial consultations often involve discussing your case, understanding your rights and obligations, and planning a course of action. It's essential to find a lawyer who you feel comfortable with and who has a thorough understanding of Singapore’s family law system, as this will considerably aid in the process.