Best Family Lawyers in Jurong East

About Family Law in Jurong East, Singapore

Family law in Jurong East, Singapore covers a broad range of legal matters related to family ties. They include marriage, divorce, child custody, maintenance issues, adoption, domestic violence and even estate planning. Singapore's family law system is characterised by a mix of statutes, government policies, and common law traditions inherited from the British legal system. It is also designed to be more conciliatory than adversarial, promoting family welfare and the best interests of children involved in a family dispute.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a family lawyer in several situations. Preparing for marriage, dealing with divorce, resolving child custody disputes, and handling domestic violence issues often require an understanding of complex legal procedures and rules. You may also need legal advice on wealth and estate management, including wills and probate matters. A family lawyer will guard your interests, help you understand your legal rights and obligations, guide you through the legal process, and represent you in court if necessary.

Local Laws Overview

The primary statute governing family matters in Singapore is the Women's Charter. Among other things, the Charter provides for the rights and responsibilities of married couples, rules for divorce, and provisions relating to children's custody and maintenance. Additionally, the Administration of Muslim Law Act governs marriage, divorce, and succession among the Muslim community. The Guardianship of Infants Act deals with matters concerning child custody, while the Maintenance Orders (Facilities for Enforcement) Act covers maintenance enforcement matters. Other related laws include the Domestic Violence Act and the Adoption of Children Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a family lawyer do?

A family lawyer provides legal advice, prepares necessary legal documents, negotiates on your behalf, and represents you in court on family-related legal matters.

How can I get a divorce in Jurong East?

Your first step is filing a Writ for Divorce at the Singapore Family Justice Courts. A lawyer will be able to guide you through this process, which entails fulfilling certain conditions, such as showing that the marriage has broken down irretrievably.

What happens to our child's custody after divorce?

The court's primary consideration in determining child custody is the child's welfare. In many cases, parents are awarded joint custody, with one parent being the primary caregiver. The court may order the non-custodial parent to pay maintenance.

How can I protect myself from domestic violence?

If you are a victim of domestic violence, you can apply for a Protection Order under the Women's Charter, prohibiting the perpetrator from committing further violence. A lawyer can help you with the application process.

What is the process for adoption in Jurong East?

The process involves applying to the Family Justice Courts for an Adoption Order. You will need to fulfil several criteria to be eligible to adopt, and legal advice will be invaluable at every stage of this process.

Additional Resources

The Family Justice Courts website provides extensive information pertinent to family law in Singapore. The Ministry of Social and Family Development also offers support services for families and children, including assistance in handling domestic violence and child protection cases. Furthermore, several non-profit organisations in Jurong East offer helplines, counselling services, and other forms of aid to individuals dealing with family law issues.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance, your next step should be to contact a family lawyer in Jurong East. The lawyer will understand your situation, explain your legal rights and options, and guide you through the appropriate legal process. He or she may also represent you in court if the need arises. Remember, it is crucial to provide your lawyer with all relevant information so they can offer accurate advice and effective representation.