A contested divorce in Singapore happens when spouses cannot agree on the reason for divorce or on key issues like children, maintenance, or assets. It takes longer and involves more steps than an uncontested case, but with the right divorce lawyer in Singapore, you can navigate it with clarity and fairness.

Key takeaways

A contested divorce occurs when there is disagreement on the reason or terms.
The process involves mediation, affidavits, and court hearings.
A skilled divorce lawyer ensures proper filings, negotiation strategy, and courtroom representation.
Most contested cases still settle during mediation with legal guidance.

Contested divorce in Singapore: spouses disagree on the reason or terms of the divorce. It involves mediation and court hearings, usually taking several months to over a year to resolve.

What is a contested divorce in Singapore?

A contested divorce occurs when one party files for divorce and the other disagrees—either with the reason given for the breakdown or with the proposed terms. These terms often relate to:

Child custody, care and control, and access
Maintenance for spouse or child
Division of matrimonial assets

If the disagreement persists, the court will decide after both sides present their evidence and arguments.

Common reasons a divorce becomes contested

Dispute over whether the marriage has irretrievably broken down
Disagreement on who should have custody or access to children
Conflict over property, savings, or business ownership
Claims of unreasonable behaviour, adultery, or desertion
Allegations of family violence or misconduct

To understand the simpler route, see Uncontested Divorce in Singapore: Steps and Timeline.

The contested divorce process in Singapore

1. Filing the Writ of Divorce

Your divorce lawyer prepares and files the Originating Application for Divorce. The Originating Application is then served to the other spouse.

2. Defence and counterclaim

The receiving party may file a Notice to Contest and Reply within the deadline, outlining their position and evidence.

3. Mediation

The court directs both sides to attend mediation. Many contested cases settle at this stage through guided negotiation.

4. Discovery and affidavits

Both parties exchange documents and file affidavits containing detailed evidence, including financial and parenting details.

5. Ancillary matters hearing

If the divorce itself is granted, the court then decides on ancillary issues—custody, maintenance, and division of assets.

6. Final Judgment

After all matters are resolved, the court grants the Final Judgment, legally ending the marriage.

How long does a contested divorce take?

Timelines vary, but most contested cases take six months to over a year, depending on:

The number of disputed issues
Cooperation level between parties
Time needed for evidence and mediation
Court availability and complexity

Key differences from an uncontested divorce


Aspect	Uncontested Divorce	Contested Divorce
Agreement	Both parties agree on all terms	One or more issues disputed
Duration	~3–4 months	6–18 months or more
Cost	Fixed, predictable	Varies based on scope and hearings
Process	No hearing	Mediation and court hearings
Stress level	Lower	Higher, especially with multiple disputes

Learn more about fixed-rate options in How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Divorce Lawyer in Singapore?

How a lawyer helps during a contested divorce

Case assessment: Identify facts, documents, and strategy.
Evidence preparation: Manage affidavits and disclosures.
Negotiation: Seek settlement through mediation or correspondence.
Representation: Present your case clearly in hearings.
After-care: Apply for variation orders if circumstances change later.

Practical tips for clients

Keep communication with your lawyer prompt and honest.
Avoid emotional reactions during mediation or filings.
Document key facts and maintain records of communication and finances.
Focus on workable outcomes, not past grievances.

Conclusion

A contested divorce takes time and patience, but with structured guidance and open communication, you can still achieve a fair resolution. For professional support, call +65 8011 2121 and follow @21chamberssg for more insights.

FAQ

You can convert to an uncontested route by filing a consent order or settlement agreement.
Yes. You may need to attend mediation or hearings, depending on the stage.
Cooperate in disclosure, be open to mediation, and respond promptly to your lawyer.
In some cases, the court may order costs against a party who caused unnecessary delay or expense.

Contested Divorce in Singapore: What To Expect