Your Guide To Divorce Lawyer Fees In Singapore
Divorce can be a costly and stressful process in Singapore. Some contentious and contested divorce cases can see the cost of Divorce in Singapore soar, making it crucial to secure the best representation during your proceedings.

The cost of a Divorce in Singapore greatly depends on whether it is contested or uncontested. Lawyers’ fees for Divorce can be expensive in Singapore because several factors influence their costs, including whether they are solo practitioners or work for a large law firm and how long they’ve been practising.
Here’s what you should know:
Lawyer Fees For Divorce In Singapore Can Be Affordable
Fees will vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the Divorce. For contested Divorces, higher fees may be required, primarily if the parties disagree on many issues, including child custody. If so, the attorney would spend more time preparing the arguments and evidence for his client’s case.
A Contested Divorce is generally more expensive than Uncontested Divorces. Lawyers specialising in Family Law typically spend more time in Court than lawyers specialising in other types of law. Therefore, the cost is considerably higher than an uncontested Divorce lawsuit.
At Tembusu Law, our fees are all-inclusive. There are no hidden setup fees or other additional fees.
Breakdown On Lawyer Fees For Divorce In Singapore
At Tembusu Law, we handle both contested and uncontested Divorces, tailoring our services to meet the specific needs of each case.
The typical lawyer fee structure for Divorce in Singapore varies depending on your circumstances.
Less complicated cases usually occur when there is no shared property, children, or financial support involved. This also means that both people agree on everything. Thus, the fees are considerably lower.
The typical lawyer fee structure for Divorce in Singapore varies depending on your circumstances.
Less complicated cases usually happen when there’s no shared property, children, or financial support involved. This also means when both people agree to everything. Thus, the fees are considerably lower.
Legal fees for Divorce are more expensive in complicated cases involving matrimonial property, children, and maintenance. You can also expect other associated costs related to party negotiation and/or when one party doesn’t agree to all the Divorce terms.
For a more accurate quote on our lawyer fees for Divorce in Singapore, we highly recommend contacting us for a free consultation.
Factors Influencing Divorce Lawyer Fees
Understanding the factors that influence Divorce lawyer fees is crucial for effective financial planning and ensuring you receive the best possible legal support when navigating the complexities of a Divorce. Tembusu Law strives to provide transparent and competitive attorney fees tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
Here are the key factors that can affect your Divorce lawyer fees in Singapore:
1. Case Complexity
The complexity of your Divorce case significantly impacts the overall legal fees. Simple, uncontested Divorces typically involve fewer legal processes and lower lawyer fees. In contrast, contested Divorces that require extensive negotiations, mediation, or Court appearances can increase the lawyer fees due to the additional time and resources involved.
2. Duration Of The Divorce Process
Prolonged legal battles, multiple Court hearings, and extended negotiations can lead to higher Divorce lawyers’ fees. Efficient case management and timely decision-making can help minimise the duration and, in turn, the overall fee.
3. Amount Of Legal Work Required
Comprehensive legal services such as asset division, child custody arrangements, spousal support negotiations, and drafting of legal documents require more extensive work from your attorney, thereby increasing the lawyer fee. The more detailed and involved your case is, the higher the Divorce lawyer in Singapore’s fee may be.
4. Attorney’s Experience And Expertise
The experience and specialisation of your Divorce lawyer play a pivotal role in determining the fees of your divorce attorney. Highly experienced Divorce lawyers with a strong track record in family law may charge higher fees than less experienced attorneys. However, investing in a seasoned lawyer can provide significant benefits, including more efficient case handling and better negotiation outcomes.

5. Additional Services And Support
Additional services such as mediation, financial advisory, and psychological support can add to the Divorce fee. While not always mandatory, these services can provide valuable support during the Divorce process and may be included in your fees, depending on your specific needs.
6. Client’s Financial Situation
Your financial situation can also impact the fee. Some law firms offer flexible payment plans or sliding scale fees based on the client’s ability to pay. At Tembusu Law, we understand the financial strains that Divorce can impose and strive to offer affordable fees without compromising the quality of our legal services.
7. Court And Filing Fees
In addition to fees, Court and filing fees must be considered part of the legal fees. These fees vary depending on the specifics of your case and the number of Court appearances required. Your attorney will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs during your initial consultation.
8. Negotiation And Settlement Requirements
The extent of negotiation and the need for settlement agreements can influence the Divorce lawyer’s Singapore fee. Effective negotiation skills can lead to favourable settlements without the need for prolonged litigation, thereby reducing the overall lawyer fees.
Cost-Saving Tips For Managing Divorce Fees
Navigating a Divorce can be both emotionally and financially challenging. Here are several cost-saving tips to help you manage and potentially reduce your legal fees for Divorce in Singapore:
1. Choose The Right Divorce Lawyer
Selecting a lawyer who offers competitive Divorce lawyer fees without compromising on quality is crucial. Research and compare the Divorce attorney fees of different law firms to find one that fits your budget while providing the expertise you need. Tembusu Law offers transparent and competitive divorce lawyer Singapore fees, ensuring you receive top-notch legal support without unexpected costs.
2. Be Well-Prepared
Being organised and prepared can significantly reduce the fee. Gather all necessary documents and information before your initial consultation. Providing your lawyer with complete and accurate information from the start can minimise the time they need to spend on your case, thereby lowering the overall lawyer fees for Divorce.
3. Opt For Mediation
Mediation is a cost-effective alternative to traditional litigation. By choosing mediation, you can resolve disputes amicably without needing prolonged Court battles, which can escalate Divorce lawyer fees. Tembusu Law offers mediation services that help streamline the Divorce process, reducing time and legal costs.
4. Limit The Scope Of Legal Services
Identify the areas where you need legal assistance and limit the scope of services accordingly. For instance, if you only require help drafting legal documents, you can negotiate a lower Divorce lawyer fee than full representation. Clear communication with your lawyer about your needs can prevent unnecessary Divorce lawyer fees.
5. Communicate Effectively
Maintain open and effective communication with your lawyer to avoid misunderstandings and additional costs. Promptly respond to requests for information and attend all scheduled meetings. Efficient communication ensures that your case progresses smoothly, helping to control the legal fees for Divorce.
6. Consider Fixed Fee Arrangements
Some law firms offer fixed fee arrangements for specific services, clarifying the total Divorce fee upfront. Tembusu Law provides transparent pricing models, allowing you to understand your Divorce lawyer’s fee from the beginning. Fixed fees can help you budget more effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.
7. Handle Simple Tasks Independently
Take on simple tasks, such as gathering documents or completing forms, to reduce the time your lawyer spends on your case. By handling these tasks independently, you can lower the lawyer fees for Divorce while benefiting from professional legal advice when needed.
8. Utilise Online Resources
Leverage online resources and tools to educate yourself about the Divorce process. Understanding the legal procedures and requirements can help you make informed decisions and reduce your reliance on legal services, decreasing Divorce attorney fees. Tembusu Law provides valuable resources about Divorce on our website to support you throughout your journey.
9. Plan Ahead Financially
Budgeting for your Divorce can help you manage Divorce lawyer fees more effectively. Discuss your financial situation with your lawyer upfront to explore flexible payment plans or instalment options. Tembusu Law offers affordable Divorce lawyer fees and flexible payment arrangements to accommodate your financial needs.
10. Seek A Free Initial Consultation
Many law firms, including Tembusu Law, offer a free initial consultation. Use this time to study your case, understand the potential costs, and determine whether the firm fits your needs. A clear understanding of the divorce lawyer fees from the outset can help you make informed legal decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Example Of Divorce Costs In Singapore
If you’d like to have an idea of the estimated legal cost of your Divorce in Singapore and how we aim to make our legal services accessible and affordable, here’s an example of our suggested pricing and sample legal services package for a typical case:
Example: Simplified & Uncontested Divorce
– both spouses agree to a Divorce and all ancillary issues before the Divorce papers are submitted to the Court
Item & Scope of Work | Factors Affecting The Fees |
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Stage 1: Terminating the Marriage We prove to the Court that there’s enough reason to allow a Divorce by showing proof of the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage:
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Stage 2: Ancillary Matters We deal with all other Ancillary Matters regarding Custody, Care & Control, Access & Visitation Rights of Children, Dividing Matrimonial Assets & Properties and Maintenance payments for the Wife and Children). |
Item & Scope of Work |
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Stage 1: Terminating the Marriage We prove to the Court that there’s enough reason to allow a Divorce by showing proof of the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage:
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Stage 2: Ancillary Matters We deal with all other Ancillary Matters regarding Custody, Care & Control, Access & Visitation Rights of Children, Dividing Matrimonial Assets & Properties and Maintenance payments for the Wife and Children). |
Factors Affecting The Fees |
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*Note: The actual costs of a Singapore Divorce will depend on the agreed scope and amount of work involved (e.g., how many terms are already agreed between the couple); further adjustments will be made to the rates depending on any increase or decrease in the actual scope and complexity of work.
If you need extra help with your cash flow, we can work out instalment payments for our transparent and fixed fees to help you better manage your finances and keep track of your legal expenses.
This helps you afford the legal support that you need and allows us to be involved in your case and help you.
If you’re still unsure of what to expect regarding the process and timeline of a Divorce, here’s a quick summary of how a Divorce will typically proceed:

9 Step-By-Step Divorce Process In Singapore |
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1. Start The Divorce Process And Apply For Divorce To Dissolve The MarriageYou file and serve the Writ of Summons and Statement of Claim on your spouse. Your spouse must respond within 8 days, confirming whether your spouse will challenge or contest the Divorce. A Contested Divorce and Trial is a long, painful and expensive process – you and your witnesses must give evidence during Court sessions and hearings after which the Court will make a decision and deliver its judgement. However, if you both agree and do not contest that the irretrievable breakdown of your marriage has occurred, then at least Stage 1 of the Divorce process won’t need a trial and you can continue directly to deal with the Ancillary Matters. |
2. Memorandum Of Appearance & DefenceIf your spouse contests the Divorce, he must file these two documents in Court. The Memorandum of Appearance confirms that he will participate in the Divorce and Court process. The Defence summarises your spouse’s main reply to your claims stated in your Statement of Claim. |
3. Interim JudgementUpon reviewing the divorce proceedings, if the Court agrees that there’s enough evidence to show that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, an Interim Judgement will be granted to dissolve the marriage. This decree initially dissolves the marriage, transitioning the Singapore divorce process into the phase where Ancillary Matters such as child maintenance, financial support, and division of purposes assets acquired during the marriage are addressed. |
4. Communication, Discussion, Negotiation & MediationYou and your spouse discuss and negotiate to try to reach a compromise or settlement – this helps you both avoid going through a painful, messy and fiercely contested divorce and trial. These discussions can take place via Family Dispute Resolution Conferences (FDRCs) and Counselling Sessions organised by the Family Justice Court. |
5. Pre-Trial & Ancillary Matters HearingIf you and your spouse cannot reach a compromise or settlement regarding your respective demands, a Trial will take place for the Judge to review the evidence in support of the respective claims. If your spouse doesn’t contest your Divorce application and only challenges you on the Ancillary Matters, your spouse must file the Memorandum of Appearance to point out the Ancillary Matters he intends to challenge without filing a Defence. |
6. AffidavitsYou and your spouse each file an Affidavit of Assets & Means (also called an “AOM”) to give details of your assets and financial responsibilities such as your salary and sources of income and expenses. If you want to get more information from your spouse regarding their assets and finances, you can use the Discovery process to ask for the Court’s help to force your spouse to give you the requested information. This legal procedure allows you to request the Court’s assistance to compel your spouse to disclose the necessary information. |
7. High CourtIf your matrimonial assets and properties have a total net value of more than $5 million, then your Divorce will be handled in the High Court. |
8. Ancillary Matters HearingAfter you and your spouse have submitted the Court papers and Affidavits, a separate Court hearing date will be scheduled for you and your spouse (or your Divorce Lawyers or Family Lawyers) to present the legal arguments and evidence in support of your claim for Ancillary Matters. This includes Custody, Care & Control, Access & Visitation Rights of Children, Dividing Matrimonial Assets & Properties and Maintenance payments for the Wife and Children:
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9. Final JudgementFollowing the resolution of Ancillary Matters, a period of at least three months must pass from the date of the Interim Judgement before the Final Judgment is issued. The judgement finalises all terms of the Divorce, officially dissolving the marriage. The divorce fees associated with reaching this stage can vary depending on the specifics of each case, including whether fixed fees or a lump sum fee were agreed upon. |
Tips for Managing and Reducing Divorce Expenses
Divorce can be financially demanding, but there are several ways to manage and minimise costs without compromising on legal support. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Opt for an Uncontested Divorce When Possible
A contested divorce involves lengthy court proceedings, multiple hearings, and extensive legal representation, making it significantly more expensive. If both parties can agree on key matters such as asset division, child custody, and spousal maintenance, an uncontested divorce will cost much less and be finalised more quickly.
2. Be Transparent and Organised with Documentation
Providing your lawyer with all necessary financial records, property ownership documents, and agreements upfront can save time and reduce legal fees. Missing paperwork or disorganised information may require extra consultations, increasing your legal costs.
3. Consider Mediation Over Litigation
Mediation allows both parties to negotiate terms with the help of a neutral third party rather than taking the case to Court. It is often a cost-effective way to resolve disputes amicably and avoid the high costs associated with prolonged litigation.
4. Set a Clear Budget for Legal Fees
Before engaging a lawyer, discuss their fee structure and request a breakdown of potential costs. Some firms offer fixed-fee divorce packages, which can help you manage your expenses more effectively. Avoid unnecessary services that may drive up your legal costs.
5. Communicate Efficiently with Your Lawyer
Legal consultations are often billed by the hour. To minimise costs, prepare your questions and documents in advance, and keep communication clear and concise. Unnecessary back-and-forth discussions or excessive phone calls can increase your legal expenses.
6. Seek Free or Affordable Legal Advice
Certain organisations and legal clinics in Singapore offer free or subsidised legal assistance for those who qualify. Exploring these options can help reduce costs, especially if you are facing financial difficulties.
7. Manage Emotions to Avoid Unnecessary Legal Battles
Divorce is an emotional process, but letting emotions dictate decisions can lead to prolonged disputes and higher costs. Keeping a practical and solution-focused mindset can help avoid unnecessary legal battles that drive up expenses.
Additional Costs to Consider In A Divorce
Beyond legal fees, divorcing couples should be aware of additional costs that may arise throughout the process. These expenses can add up, making it essential to plan ahead and budget accordingly.
1. Court Filing Fees
Filing for divorce in Singapore comes with mandatory Court fees. The cost varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, with contested cases generally incurring higher filing expenses.
2. Mediation or Counselling Costs
In some cases, the Court may require both parties to attend mediation or counselling sessions to attempt a resolution. While some sessions may be provided at no cost, others—particularly private mediation services—may involve additional fees.
3. Property Valuation and Division Fees
If properties or high-value assets are involved, professional valuation services may be required to determine their worth. Engaging a financial expert or property valuer can add to the overall cost of the divorce.
4. Child Custody and Maintenance Fees
Parents going through a divorce should consider ongoing child support and education costs. Additionally, disputes over custody may require assessments from child welfare professionals, which can incur additional fees.
5. Spousal Maintenance Payments
Depending on the financial situation of each spouse, the Court may order maintenance payments to be made. This can be a long-term financial commitment, particularly if one party is financially dependent on the other.
6. Legal Document Fees And Notarisation
Certain agreements, affidavits, or settlement documents may require notarisation or certification, which comes with associated costs. These expenses should be factored into the overall divorce budget.
7. Post-Divorce Financial Adjustments
Once the divorce is finalised, individuals may face financial adjustments such as setting up separate bank accounts, revising insurance policies, or amending wills and estate plans. These changes can lead to further administrative costs.
Conclusion About Divorce Lawyer Fees
Understanding Divorce lawyer fees is essential for making informed decisions and managing your legal expenses effectively. At Tembusu Law, we provide expert legal advice and representation in managing difficult family law disputes.
Whether it’s obtaining child custody, addressing issues of domestic violence, or handling annulments, our legal team brings a wealth of experience to various family legal matters.
Start with our free consultation to discuss your specific situation without any obligations. With our expert guidance, you will benefit from the extensive experience of our divorce lawyers in singapore.
Get in touch with us now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Lawyer Fees In Singapore
How Expensive Would It Be If Two Parties Agree To Have A Divorce?
In Singapore, the cost of a divorce should not be too high if both parties consent to the terms of the divorce. This is known as an uncontested divorce, in which both spouses consent to all the terms of a divorce. It is easier and less expensive to get an uncontested Divorce than a contested Divorce.
Why Are Contested Divorce Fees More Expensive Than An Uncontested Divorce Cost In Singapore?
There can be many reasons why contested Divorce costs in Singapore are more expensive than an Uncontested Divorce. One key reason is that resolving the terms in a Contested Divorce takes longer. When two parties cannot agree on Divorce terms, they may be forced to go through lengthy court proceedings. Aside from pre-trial legal motions and hearings, it entails numerous steps, including discovery, depositions, expert reports, and trial preparation.
Who Is Responsible For Paying For The Divorce Lawyer Fees In Singapore?
In most cases, you are responsible for paying your own legal fees. The Court can also determine if a person should be responsible for paying the other person’s legal fees, such as in a situation where the losing party bears the winning party’s legal costs.
How Long Does the Divorce Process Take In Singapore?
An uncontested divorce usually takes about 4 to 5 months, whereas a contested divorce can extend to 12 months or more, depending on the case’s complexity.
Do You Allow Instalment Payments For Lawyer Fees?
Yes. We accept instalments of lawyer fees for Divorce in Singapore. We know that many people have financial constraints, so we have made instalment payments available for our clients who need additional financial assistance.
Are There Any Hidden Costs In Divorce Proceedings?
It’s essential to discuss all potential costs with your lawyer upfront. Some firms offer all-inclusive fees, while others may have additional charges for services like filing fees or consultations.
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