Compassionate legal experts who fight for your family’s future

You Don’t Have to Face This Alone.

Our caring team can guide your family through divorce while protecting your assets, children, and dignity

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Why Choose Us

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Trusted, Award-Winning Legal Experts

Recognized for our excellence and professionalism in family law.
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Over 70 Years of Collective Legal Divorce Expertise

Our team brings 7+ decades of combined divorce experience with strategic counsel tailored to your case.
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Direct Access. Real Lawyers. Real Time.

Communicate directly with your lawyer via WhatsApp and seamlessly schedule your meetings. No gatekeeping.
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Premium Legal Excellence

We deliver strategy-driven advice with internal cross-reviews and senior lawyer oversight on every case.
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Join Thousands of Satisfied Clients

Our testimonials demonstrate proven results across family law, criminal, and corporate cases.
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Proven Track Record

Consistently achieving favorable outcomes for clients.
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Constructive, Solutions-Focused Approach

Our experienced team takes a non-confrontational path to resolving matters respectfully—reducing conflict, easing emotional stress, and encouraging productive discussions that lead to better long-term results.
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Compassionate, Client-First Support Every Step of the Way

We’re empathetic, and genuinely committed to your well-being—always ready to act in your best interests with clear, responsive communication.

Grounds of Divorce in Singapore

Before anything else, a marriage has to be legally eligible for divorce — and you’ll need to establish one of five recognised grounds that it has irretrievably broken down. Once you know which one applies to you, see the step-by-step guide to divorce and the divorce process in Singapore for what happens next.

Are You Eligible to File?

  • You must have been married for at least 3 years before you can file for divorce in Singapore.
  • Married less than 3 years? You may still apply if you can show exceptional hardship or your spouse’s exceptional depravity — these applications are rare and need strong evidence.
  • Your marriage must be legally recognised in Singapore, with at least one spouse domiciled here or habitually resident for 3 years before filing.

Muslim marriages solemnised under Muslim law are handled by the Syariah Court, not the Family Justice Courts, and follow a separate process.

Grounds of Divorce

  1. Adultery

    Your spouse committed adultery, and you find it intolerable to continue living with them.

  2. Unreasonable Behaviour

    Your spouse has behaved such that you cannot reasonably be expected to keep living with them.

  3. Desertion

    Your spouse has deserted you for a continuous period of at least 2 years before filing.

  4. Separation

    3 years apart with your spouse’s consent, or 4 years apart without it.

  5. Mutual Agreement

    Both spouses jointly agree the marriage has broken down — no fault needs to be attributed to either party.

How to Get a Divorce in Singapore: Step-by-Step

1

Choose Your Track

Agree on the divorce and all ancillary matters? The Simplified Track is generally faster and more streamlined. If there are disagreements, the matter will proceed on the Contested Track.

2

Prepare Your Filing Documents

A Statement of Claim/Particulars setting out your ground, a Proposed Parenting Plan (if you have children below 21), and a Proposed Matrimonial Property Plan.

3

File Your Application

Through the Family Justice Courts' e-filing system, generally via the Community Justice Centre or a lawyer, and pay the applicable court fees.

4

Serve the Documents

Unless filed jointly, your spouse is served and given the opportunity to respond or contest.

5

Attend the Co-Parenting Programme (CPP)

Mandatory if you have children below 21 — helping both parents focus on their children's wellbeing during the divorce.

6

The Court Reviews Your Application

Uncontested Simplified Track cases can be decided on the papers alone. Contested Normal Track cases proceed to case conferences, mediation, or trial.

7

Interim Judgment Is Granted

Once satisfied the marriage has irretrievably broken down, the court grants an Interim Judgment — then moves to the Ancillary Matters stage covered in the divorce process in Singapore, below.

Good to know: an uncontested Simplified Track application typically moves the fastest, while contested Normal Track matters can take considerably longer depending on how many issues remain in dispute.

The Divorce Process in Singapore

A Singapore divorce proceeds in two distinct stages — first the dissolution of the marriage itself, then the resolution of Ancillary Matters.

Stage One — Interim Judgment: Dissolving the Marriage

  • The court examines your eligibility and the fact you’ve relied on.
  • If satisfied, it grants an Interim Judgment.
  • The marriage isn’t fully dissolved yet — the legal process to end it is underway.

Stage Two — Ancillary Matters

  • Division of matrimonial assets
  • Maintenance for a spouse and/or children
  • Custody, care & control, and access for children below 21
If both spouses agree on ancillary matters, they’re recorded and approved by the court quickly. If not, the matter may go to the Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) Division for mediation before, if necessary, proceeding to trial. Once ancillary matters are resolved and at least 3 months have passed since the Interim Judgment, either spouse can apply for the Final Judgment, which formally dissolves the marriage.

How Long Does It Take?

Uncontested · Simplified Track

4-6 months

from filing to Final Judgment, where both the divorce and all ancillary matters are agreed.

Contested · Normal Track

12+ months

Can take considerably longer in complex or heavily disputed cases requiring mediation or trial.

A Singapore divorce proceeds in two distinct stages — first the dissolution of the marriage itself, then the resolution of Ancillary Matters.

Other Areas of Divorce

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Divorce Proceedings

Uncontested and contested divorce, divorce by mutual agreement, and annulment.
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Custody, Care & Access

Custody, care and control, access schedules, and parenting plans.
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Spousal & Child Maintenance

Fair financial support between spouses, and child support calculations.
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Division of Matrimonial Assets

Fair division of property, savings, investments, and business interests.
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Family Protection Matters

Personal Protection Orders, and pre- or post-marriage agreements.
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Mediation Support

Where possible, we help spouses settle disagreements through mediation and the court's Family Dispute Resolution process — reducing conflict, cost, and time compared to a trial.
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Divorce Modifications

If your circumstances change after divorce — remarriage, a new child, job loss, or ill health — we can help you apply to vary an existing maintenance, custody, or access order.

Our Courtroom Victories

IRB Law has an excellent track record of court victories in the most complex family law matters. From asset divisions and parental rights to intricate custody disputes, clients can count on proven results and dedicated advocacy when choosing IRB Law.
Case No: WEK v WEL

Court Orders Substantial Interim Maintenance for Cancer-Stricken Wife and Child

Our team at IRB Law LLP successfully secured crucial financial support for our client who was battling cancer while caring for her child. We obtained monthly maintenance payments and over $19,000 in back-payments, ensuring she had the resources needed during this difficult time in her life.
Case No: XDJ v XDK

Partial Victory for Wife as Court Revises Maintenance and Reclaims Funds in Matrimonial Dispute

IRB Law LLP represented the client in recovering $15,696.77 that her husband had improperly transferred to his girlfriend, and successfully increased her monthly maintenance payments from $450 to $650. Our skilled court work ensured she received fair financial support during their divorce.
Case No: WFE v WFF

Wife’s $3M Stock Portfolio Ruled a Matrimonial Asset in Landmark Divorce Win

IRB Law LLP won a major victory by convincing the High Court that a $3 million investment account belonged to the marriage, not just to the wife as an inheritance. This significantly increased our client's share of the couple's $10 million in total assets.
Case No: XIG v XIH

IRB Law LLP Secures Major Matrimonial Asset Split and Enhanced Child Access in Complex Divorce Case

IRB Law LLP's expert matrimonial advocacy secured an exceptional 63.5% share of matrimonial assets for our client. The team also successfully kept his monthly support payments low, ensuring a fair outcome that reflected his greater financial contributions during the marriage.
Case No: WQT v WQU

Victory for Father’s Rights Amidst Complex Custody Battle Secures Extended Access in Complex Custody Dispute

IRB Law LLP successfully helped a devoted father get more time with his daughter despite serious false accusations against him. Our careful legal work ensured he could maintain a strong relationship with his child while protecting everyone involved.

Case No: XER v XES

Upholding Fairness in Family Disputes

Our team at IRB Law LLP successfully secured a costs order for our client (the mother) even though the father achieved some of his goals in court. The judge criticized the father's unreasonable behavior throughout the case and made him pay our client's legal fees, showing the importance of acting fairly in family disputes.
Case No: VWJ v VWI

Father Wins Custody in Rare Reversal, Court Prioritises Child’s Stability

IRB Law LLP won custody of the child for our client father after the High Court found that the mother was not cooperating with parenting arrangements and was neglecting her childcare duties. The judge prioritized what was best for the child's wellbeing.
Disclaimer: Case summaries are anonymised and based on real matters handled by IRB Law LLP. For confidentiality reasons, lawyer names have been removed. Outcomes depend on specific facts and do not constitute a guarantee of results in future matters.

Our Lawyers

With over 70 years of collective divorce law expertise across our team, we offer strategic guidance on the most complex divorce cases, covering custody and maintenance matters, division of matrimonial assets, annulments, deed of separation, as well as mediation and settlement support.

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Mohamed Baiross

Partner
  • English/Tamil/Malay Fluency
  • Appeals, Litigation & Mediation Expertise
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Kulvinder Kaur

Partner
  • English/Tamil/Punjabi Fluency
  • Appeals, Litigation & Mediation Expertise
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Quek Liuyong

Partner
  • English/Chinese Fluency
  • Appeals & Higher Court Expertise
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Caryn Lee

Partner
  • English/Chinese Fluency
  • Appeals & Higher Court Expertise
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Jessvir Kaur

Partner
  • English/Chinese/Hindi/Punjabi Fluency
  • Appeals & Higher Court Expertise
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Faustina

Senior Associate
  • English Fluency
  • Appeals, Litigation & Mediation Expertise
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Joel Tay

Senior Associate
  • English/Chinese Fluency
  • Appeals & Higher Court Expertise
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Vicneshri Vicnaysen

Senior Associate
  • English/Tamil Fluency
  • Appeals, Litigation & Mediation Expertise
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Leong Zhen Yang

Senior Associate
  • English/Chinese Fluency
  • Appeals & Higher Court Expertise

Testimonials

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Gerald Nah Haw Yuan
21st October 2026

I had an excellent experience with IRB LAW LLP. From our first consultation, Mr Baiross was professional, honest, and attentive. They explained my options clearly, kept me updated throughout my case, and always responded promptly. I felt truly supported and well-represented, and I am very happy with the outcome. Mr Koh Boon Yang and Mr Zachary Lim well organized and diligent worked on my behalf. You made a stressful process feel manageable, and I always felt heard, informed, and well-supported. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of trustworthy, caring, and skilled legal help.

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Christine Yew
16th October 2026

Working with this law firm was the best decision I made. From start to finish, the team was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely supportive. Legal matters can be stressful and overwhelming, but they guided me through every step with absolute clarity, patience, and warmth. Special thanks to Ms. Sherlyn Kaur and Mr. Baiross. Mr. Baiross provided sharp legal insight and strategic direction. Ms. Sherlyn Kaur was amazing with communication - always responsive, meticulous with details, and consistently reassuring throughout the entire process. They truly care about their clients as people, not just cases. I am deeply grateful for their hard work and highly recommend them to anyone seeking reliable legal representation!

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Emma Lee
15th October 2026

Engaged I.R.B. Law LLP for a civil debt recovery matter. Mohamed and the team provided stellar service with clear, pragmatic, detailed advice and handled my case with efficiency. They understood my position and helped secure a successful outcome while keeping the process transparent and straightforward. Highly recommended for their responsive and practical legal services.

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车雪静
12th October 2026

A huge thank you to Mr. Peng and his assistant, Ms. Taffy! Throughout the handling of my case, they demonstrated an exceptionally high level of professionalism, efficiency, and empathy. Mr. Peng provided outstanding professional legal advice and secured the best possible outcome for us! Highly recommended!非常感谢 Peng 律师和他的助理 Taffy 小姐!在处理我的案件期间,他们展现了极高的专业素养、效率和同理心。Peng 律师给出了非常专业的法律建议,为我们争取到了最好的结果! 极力推荐彭律师!

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Lynn k
12th September 2026

Mr Baiross and his team helped me with my litigation case and offered really good advice. I am very appreciative of his work and expertise as it helped me close my case. Thank you🙏🏼🥹

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Iqah Kilei
3rd September 2026

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the team at I.R.B Law LLP, especially Rano, who attended the court hearing with us, as well as everyone who assisted us throughout the entire divorce proceedings. This journey was definitely not an easy one, and there were many uncertainties along the way. We are thankful that throughout the entire process, the team was always patient in listening to our concerns and guiding us whenever we were unsure of the next step. They made the legal process easier for us to understand and gave us the reassurance we needed to get through each stage. One thing we especially appreciated was how realistic and transparent the team was with us. They would always prepare us for what to expect, including the possible worst-case scenarios. Rather than giving us false expectations, they helped us understand the different possibilities and manage our expectations accordingly. This allowed us to mentally prepare ourselves for whatever the outcome might be, even if it was not necessarily the outcome we hoped for. That honesty and guidance meant a lot to us throughout the process. Whenever we had questions or were unsure about something, the team was always there to guide us through it. Our enquiries were attended to promptly and professionally, and we truly appreciated how responsive and patient they were, especially during moments when we needed further clarification or reassurance. What meant the most was knowing that we did not have to navigate such a difficult process alone. Having a team that was professional yet understanding made an already stressful and emotionally exhausting journey much more manageable. Now that this chapter has finally come to an end, one thought feels especially fitting: “Today is not about who won or who lost. It is about finally closing a chapter that took more from everyone than it should have. Some endings don’t need celebration or resentment — just acceptance, peace, and the grace to move forward.” And that is exactly how we choose to look at the end of this journey. To Rano and the entire I.R.B team who played a part in getting us through this process, thank you for your professionalism, honesty, patience, guidance and support. We are sincerely grateful for everything you have done for us, and it will not be forgotten. 🤍

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Natalia Denisko
1st September 2026

This company my friend recommend for divorcee case. Fast working reliable company, ready take case and actions immediately. Transparent calculations fees, high respect especially to Leong Zhen Yang and Faiza: fast, precise, punctual work does not neglect any detail, my case was complicated and risky. Thanks a lot!!!😍🙏❤️

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Nurulhuda Iskandar
28th August 2026

Truly grateful to the team for assisting me throughout my divorce case at the Syariah Court, as well as my maintenance matter at the Family Justice Courts. From the very beginning, the lawyers were professional, knowledgeable and responsive. What stood out to me most was how committed they were to my case. They were willing to go the extra mile and fight for their client’s best interests, while ensuring that I understood the legal process and my options along the way. Going through a divorce and maintenance matter is never easy, but having lawyers who genuinely listen, guide and stand by you makes a huge difference. I always felt that my case was taken seriously and that they were willing to go all out to achieve the best possible outcome for me. I highly appreciate their dedication, professionalism and support throughout the entire journey. I would definitely recommend this law firm to anyone looking for a reliable, professional and committed legal team.

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Ili Lutfiah
8th August 2026

We engaged IRB for a recent case and had an absolutely wonderful experience with Mr Baiross and Mr Joel. From our very first consultation, we knew we were in good hands. Mr Baiross took the time to understand our situation and walked us through the potential consequences with so much empathy, patience and genuine concern. He never made us feel rushed, and his ability to explain everything clearly gave us a lot of reassurance during what was a very stressful period for us. It was clear from the very first conversation that he genuinely cared about helping us, and we knew we wanted to engage him and his team. We were also incredibly fortunate to work with Joel throughout the process. His friendly and approachable demeanour made it so easy to communicate with him. He always kept us focused on the end goal, while making the entire process feel much less daunting. At times, it genuinely felt like we were discussing things with a friend rather than a lawyer. What we appreciated most about Joel was his ability to empathise with our situation and understand how we were feeling before offering his thoughts and advice. He never made us feel like our concerns were insignificant, and we always felt heard, respected and supported. His professionalism, patience and personal touch really stood out to us. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a team that is not only professional and knowledgeable, but also genuinely empathetic and invested in their clients.

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Simran Kaur
23rd July 2026

I had a wonderful experience working with Faustina Joyce Fernando at IRB Law LLP. After struggling for a long time to navigate complex, stalled court document extractions on my own, Faustina stepped in with immense empathy, efficiency, and professionalism. She made strategic decisions that brought a swift, complete resolution to my case in record time. I am incredibly grateful for her clear guidance, kindness, and dedication. Highly recommend Faustina and the family legal team at IRB Law to anyone seeking reliable and compassionate legal support!

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Life Of KMx
22nd July 2026

Very professional in handling the case.

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Thumbs up to Norlina and her team. They are a nice team to work with as they handled our case with utmost professionalism. Highly recommended.

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Lee Soon whatt
27th June 2026

Highly recommended for anyone seeking legal action. Case was handled professionally and I got the result that I was hoping to get. Consider the result as a win. Case handled by Mr Koh Boon Yang and Mr Zachary Lim was done with exceptional skill.

Our Pricing

Transparent, fixed-fee rates — so you know what to expect from the start, whichever path your divorce takes.

Uncontested Divorce

From $2,000

Fees Include

  • Preparation and filing of divorce papers
  • Mediation sessions
  • Childcare arrangements
  • Spousal support
  • Division of complex assets — property, CPF funds, and other joint investments

Enquire to Find Out Rates

Contested Divorce

From $10,000

Fees Include

  • Preparation and filing of divorce papers
  • Mediation sessions
  • Childcare arrangements
  • Spousal support
  • Division of complex assets — property, CPF funds, and other joint investments

Enquire to Find Out Rates

FAQs

What is Custody, Care and Control?
Custody refers to the right to make major decisions about the child’s life — such as education, religion, and healthcare.
Care and control refers to which parent the child lives with on a day-to-day basis.
Access is the right of the parent who doesn’t have care and control to spend time with the child.

*In most cases, both parents share custody (called joint custody), but only one parent is given care and control, while the other is granted access.

What are the 2 types of divorce?
Uncontested Divorce Contested Divorce
Both parties agree on the dissolution of marriage and its consequences. The spouses can’t agree either on divorce or material consequences, or both.
The divorce process takes 3-6 months. The whole process takes up to 12 months, perhaps longer.
A limited list of documents is required. The maximum number of documents required including facts proving the reason for divorce.
The legal fees are lower. Lawyers charge much higher fees that be time-based.
Presence in court is not required. Both parties shall appear in court for mediation or trial as the case may be.
What are the Different Kinds of Custody Orders?
  • Sole Custody – One parent has full authority to make all major decisions about the child without needing the other parent’s consent.
  • Joint Custody – Both parents must make major decisions together, even if the child lives primarily with one of them.
  • Hybrid Custody – One parent has custody, but must consult the other for specific matters (e.g., education or religion).
  • Split Custody – Rare cases where siblings are split between both parents, each with custody of different children.
What Are the Different Types of Access?
  • Reasonable Access – Flexible, based on mutual agreement between parents.
  • Fixed Access – Structured schedule (e.g., weekends, holidays, birthdays).
  • Supervised Access – Required when the court feels a third party should be present for the child’s safety.
  • No Access – Ordered in rare cases where contact may harm the child’s well-being.
How Do the Courts Decide on Custody Arrangements?

The child’s welfare is the court’s top priority. The court considers:

  • The child’s needs (emotional, educational, and physical)
  • The ability of each parent to meet those needs
  • The child’s relationship with each parent
  • Any history of abuse, neglect, or family violence
  • The willingness of each parent to cooperate

*In most cases, the court encourages joint parental responsibility, unless there are compelling reasons not to.

How can I find a good divorce lawyer in Singapore?
You can start looking for divorce lawyers by visiting law firms’ websites, reading about their divorce services, and checking their reviews. It’s always best to schedule an initial consultation with the lawyer of your choice to learn about their approach, communication, and service standards. You can benefit from engaging experienced divorce lawyers with a strong reputation in family law and divorce practice.
My spouse doesn't want a divorce. Can I file anyway?
Yes, you can file for divorce even if your spouse doesn’t consent by filing a Writ of Divorce with the Family Justice Courts and serving the documents on your spouse.
Can I Get a Divorce in Singapore If I Am Bankrupt?
Yes. Being bankrupt does not, by itself, prevent a person from applying for divorce in Singapore. The Family Justice Courts’ eligibility requirements focus on matters such as the length of the marriage, the parties’ connection to Singapore and whether the marriage is under civil law. Bankruptcy is not listed as a bar to filing for divorce.

However, bankruptcy may affect the financial and asset-related matters in the divorce. For divorce applications, the court requires information relating to bankruptcy proceedings where applicable, including bankruptcy search results.

If either spouse is an undischarged bankrupt, this can also affect how matrimonial assets are dealt with. Family Justice Courts documents state that the Official Assignee must be informed in certain ancillary proceedings involving an undischarged bankrupt. This is because a bankrupt person’s property may vest in the bankruptcy trustee, subject to applicable exceptions.

How Does Owning a Company or Business Affect Divorce Proceedings in Singapore?
Owning a company or business does not prevent a person from applying for divorce. The divorce itself follows the usual eligibility requirements and process.

Where business ownership may become relevant is during the ancillary matters stage of the divorce. The Family Justice Courts identify the division of matrimonial assets as one of the financial issues that may need to be resolved between the parties.

Accordingly, where a spouse has an interest in a company or business, its relevance will depend on the circumstances of the case and how it relates to the matrimonial asset pool. The parties may need to address their financial interests when the court considers the division of matrimonial assets.

If the spouses can agree on the divorce, the case may proceed on the simplified track. If they cannot agree on the divorce, it proceeds on the normal track, with ancillary matters such as the division of matrimonial assets subsequently dealt with by the court.

General Disclaimer

Please note that divorce timelines vary based on court schedules and the complexity of each case. While emergency filings may be submitted, acceptance is subject to judicial discretion and is not guaranteed.. The outcome of each case depends on each case’s circumstances.

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