About Divorce & Separation Law in Paya Lebar, Singapore
Divorce and Separation in Paya Lebar, Singapore, are governed by the Women's Charter and follow the same guidelines as the rest of the country. To apply for a divorce, couples must have been married for at least three years, and one party has to have been domiciled or resident in Singapore for the previous three years.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Understanding the legal intricacies and ensuring your interests are best represented can be challenging without legal help. Common situations where legal advice may be needed include: determining child custody, negotiating maintenance or alimony, dividing marital assets, and handling contested or uncontested divorces. The process can be emotionally difficult, so having the guidance of an experienced lawyer can provide invaluable support.
Local Laws Overview
Key aspects of local divorce laws include grounds for divorce, division of property, child custody and spousal maintenance. A divorce may be granted on the grounds of adultery, unreasonable behavior, desertion, or being separated for three years with mutual consent or four years without. Property division, child custody and spousal maintenance are decided considering various factors such as each party's income, age, living standard, duration of the marriage, and whether any party has sacrificed their career for family.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does the divorce process typically take?
The process duration depends on whether it is a contested or uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce can take three to four months, whereas a contested divorce can take a year or more.
2. Can one lawyer represent both parties?
No, under Singapore's legal ethical rules, a lawyer cannot represent both parties due to the potential conflict of interest.
3. Is it necessary for both parties to agree to divorce?
No, if one party refuses to agree to the divorce, the other party can still proceed, and courts may grant divorce if they find reasonable grounds.
4. Who gets custody of the children?
The court decides on child custody considering what is in the best interest of the child. Both parents typically have a say in significant matters, but one parent may have primary physical custody.
5. How is the division of assets determined?
The court takes into account various factors including financial and non-financial contributions to the family, debts, needs of children, age, and income potential of each spouse.
Additional Resources
The Ministry of Social and Family Development, and the Family Justice Courts of Singapore offer resources and aid for individuals navigating divorce and separation. Moreover, counselling and mediation services are available through professional bodies such as the Law Society of Singapore's Pro Bono Services.
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance, start by reaching out to a lawyer who specializes in family law. You can seek recommendations or search through the Law Society of Singapore's directory. Prepare for your consultation by gathering relevant documents and crafting a list of questions.
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