Simplified Deputyship Applications in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

A deputyship application is a legal process where the court appoints a deputy to make decisions on behalf of an individual who lacks mental capacity (P). The simplified deputyship process in Singapore is designed to be more accessible and quicker than the standard process, provided certain criteria are met.

Eligibility for the Simplified Process

The simplified deputyship process applies if:

1. Consent: All relevant persons involved in P’s life consent to the application.
2. Scope of Orders: You are applying for specific orders under the Mental Capacity Act, and the total amount involved does not exceed SGD 80,000.

Relevant orders may include:

• Withdrawing monies from P’s bank accounts.
• Selling P’s property or vehicle.
• Consenting to medical or dental treatments.
• Deciding on P’s living arrangements and care services.

Required Documents

1. Medical Report: A medical report certifying that P lacks mental capacity. This can be submitted online by the doctor via iFAMS or as a hard copy with an affidavit.
2. Proof of Relationship: Documents proving your relationship to P (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates).
3. Financial Documents: Latest bank statements of P.
4. Consent Forms: Signed consent forms from all relevant persons.
5. Application Forms: Completed deputyship application forms, including all supporting documents.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation

• Understand the responsibilities and requirements of being a deputy. Ensure that all relevant persons are informed and consent to the application.
• Obtain a medical report from a registered doctor. If not submitted online, the report must be attached to an affidavit sworn before a Commissioner for Oaths.

2. Filing the Application

• Login to iFAMS: Access the Integrated Family Application Management System (iFAMS) using your Singpass.
• Complete the Forms: Fill in the application form under the Mental Capacity Act section. Select the appropriate orders you are applying for and upload the required documents.
• Preview and Submit: Review all entered information for accuracy before submitting the application.

3. Post-Filing Requirements

• Consent Indication: Within three months of filing, all relevant persons must log in to iFAMS and indicate their consent to the application.
• Payment of Fees: Once consent is obtained from all relevant persons, pay the filing fee of SGD 40 online through iFAMS.

4. Court Process

• Attendance: You may need to attend a court hearing if further clarifications are required by the judge.
• Issuance of Order: If the application is approved, the court will issue the deputyship order via email.

Possible Outcomes

• Approval: If the court finds no issues, you will receive the deputyship order via email and will be appointed as P’s deputy.
• Rejection or Appeal: If the application is rejected, you can file an appeal following the court’s decision process.

Additional Resources

• Guides and Support: Refer to the iFAMS user guide for detailed instructions on filing the application and other processes.
• Technical Support: For technical assistance with iFAMS, contact the iFAMS helpdesk during their operating hours.

For detailed information and further resources, you can refer to the Family Justice Courts’ official website and relevant guides provided by the Ministry of Law and the Singapore Judiciary.