Divorce

Before getting a divorce, you may wish to consider the possibility of reconciliation. The effect it may have on you and your children can be distressing.

Getting a Divorce

There are several requirements to fulfill before a Court will grant a divorce:

• You must have been married for at least 3 years. However, with permission from the Court, you may proceed to file a Writ for divorce before 3 years of marriage if you can prove that a) you have suffered exceptional hardship or b) if your spouse has been exceptionally unreasonable and cruel.
• You or your spouse must be domiciled in Singapore or either of you must have resided in Singapore for 3 years immediately before the commencement of divorce proceedings.

What is Irretrievable Breakdown

To prove that marriage has broken down irretrievably, the Plaintiff must establish one or more of the following :-

1. Adultery
   

   The Defendant has committed adultery with another person (the Co-Defendant) and the Plaintiff finds it intolerable to live with the Defendant. Usually a private investigator report will be required.

2. "Unreasonable Behaviour"
   

   The Defendant has behaved in such a way that the Plaintiff cannot reasonably be expected to live with him/her.

3. Desertion
   

   The Defendant has deserted the Plaintiff for a continuous period of 2 years without any intention of returning.

4. Separation for 3 Years
   

   The Plaintiff and Defendant have lived apart for a continuous period of at least 3 years and the Defendant agrees to a divorce. If both parties remains living under the same roof, it is required to establish that both are living in separate household.

5. Separation for 4 Years
   

   The Plaintiff and the Defendant have lived apart for a continuous period of at least 4 years. No consent is required from the Defendant. If both parties remains living under the same roof, it is required to establish that both are living in separate household.