TAN, LEE & CHOO
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Family Lawyer & Divorce Lawyer in Singapore

Divorce, Custody & Family Law Services in Singapore

Going through a divorce or family dispute in Singapore? Tan, Lee & Choo’s family lawyers and divorce lawyers provide experienced, practical legal support for individuals and families navigating some of life’s most difficult moments.

We handle all aspects of family law in Singapore — contested divorce proceedings, uncontested (simplified) divorce, division of matrimonial assets, child custody and access arrangements, spousal and child maintenance, Personal Protection Orders (PPO), Domestic Exclusion Orders, and prenuptial agreements.

As a divorce lawyer in Singapore, we advise on the grounds for divorce under the Women’s Charter, guide you through the Family Justice Courts process, and represent you in contested hearings or negotiations. For uncontested divorces, we prepare the necessary documents and manage the Simplified Track process efficiently, keeping costs reasonable.

Our team is fluent in English, Mandarin, Malay, and several Chinese dialects, allowing us to support clients from diverse backgrounds. Contact us at +65 6535 6077 for a confidential consultation.

Our Mr Liaw Jin Poh is experienced in both technical expertise and emotional acuity in the process of mediation.

Our areas of practice in family law include:

  • Prenuptial and marital agreements — protecting your assets and interests before or during marriage
  • Maintenance summonses — applications for spousal and child maintenance, including variation of existing orders
  • Family violence matters — applications for Personal Protection Orders (PPO) and Domestic Exclusion Orders (DEO)
  • Deed of Separation — formal separation agreements documenting arrangements before divorce proceedings
  • Divorce (both simplified and contested) — full representation from filing through to Interim Judgment and Certificate of Making Interim Judgment Final
  • Determination of third-party interests — where ownership of matrimonial property is disputed by parties outside the marriage
  • Variation of existing divorce court orders — applying for or defending applications to change custody, access, or maintenance orders
  • Custody and access arrangements — including child representatives, parenting plans and applications to relocate
  • Guardianship applications
  • Paternity establishment proceedings

Updates

Interested to know more about what we have achieved? Check out our latest reported case, a 2020 Court of Appeal decision in which we successfully appealed against a High Court decision and the Court elucidated on what constitutes a radical change in circumstances as opposed to a material change in circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions — Divorce Lawyer Singapore

How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Singapore?

Divorce legal fees in Singapore vary depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, and the complexity of ancillary matters (division of assets, custody, maintenance). Uncontested (simplified) divorces are significantly more affordable. We provide a fee estimate at your first consultation so you can plan accordingly.

What are the grounds for divorce in Singapore?

Under the Women’s Charter, the sole ground for divorce in Singapore is that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. This can be proven through: adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion for at least 2 years, separation for 3 years (with consent) or 4 years (without consent). Your divorce lawyer will advise on the most appropriate basis for your situation.

What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce in Singapore?

An uncontested (simplified) divorce is one where both parties agree on the divorce itself and all ancillary matters — custody, access, maintenance, and division of matrimonial assets. A contested divorce involves disagreement on one or more of these issues, requiring negotiation, mediation, or a court hearing. Contested divorces take longer and typically cost more. Our family lawyers handle both tracks.

How long does divorce take in Singapore?

An uncontested divorce in Singapore typically takes 4 to 6 months from filing to finalisation. A contested divorce can take 1 to 3 years or more, depending on the complexity of issues and court scheduling. We advise clients on realistic timelines at the outset.

Can I get a Personal Protection Order (PPO) in Singapore?

Yes. If you or your children are at risk of family violence, you can apply for a Personal Protection Order (PPO) at the Family Justice Courts. In urgent cases, an Expedited Order (EO) can be granted the same day. Our family lawyers handle PPO applications and can accompany you through the process.

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