Choosing a divorce lawyer is one of the first decisions you make in a divorce, and one of the most important. Your lawyer will shape how your matrimonial assets are divided, the arrangements for your children and how long the process takes. This guide sets out what to look for in a divorce lawyer in Singapore, and the questions to ask before you instruct one.
Quick answer:
A good divorce lawyer in Singapore should have family law specialisation, a depth of experience with cases like yours, is recognised by independent peer surveys or legal directories, explains fees clearly at the start, and can both negotiate a settlement and argue your case in court.
1. Look for a lawyer who specialises in family law
Divorce law in Singapore has changed a great deal in recent years, including the introduction of divorce by mutual agreement in July 2024 and new court rules in October 2024. There has also been the emphasis on Therapeutic Justice training and approach that the Court expects of family lawyers. A specialist divorce lawyer will know the current rules and how the Family Justice Courts approach each issue.
2. Check their experience with cases like yours
A simple, uncontested divorce needs different skills from a contested divorce involving emotionally charged or narcissistic spouses, complex assets or a dispute over the children. Ask whether the lawyer has handled cases with similar assets and issues, and whether they have experience in the appeal courts if your case may go that far.
3. Look for independent recognition
Independent rankings help you see how a lawyer is regarded by people who have worked with them. The Straits Times' Singapore's Best Law Firms and Singapore's Top-Rated Lawyers lists are based on a survey of lawyers, in-house counsel and clients run by Statista, with self-recommendations excluded. Legal directories such as Doyle's Guide and Benchmark Litigation also rank family and divorce lawyers each year.
In the 2027 edition, DOT Chambers was awarded the top accolade of five stars in Family, and our Managing Director, Dorothy Tan, was listed as a Top-Rated Lawyer in Singapore and Most Recommended in Family Law. Read about the firm's recognition.
4. Ask how they approach settlement and court
Most divorces are resolved by agreement, and a good divorce lawyer will look for a fair settlement before going to court. Accredited family mediators and collaborative family practitioners are trained to help couples reach agreement. Your lawyer should also be ready to argue your case firmly in court if the other side will not agree.
5. Understand the fees before you start
Divorce lawyer fees in Singapore depend on whether your divorce is uncontested or contested, and how many issues are in dispute. A good lawyer will be transparent in their fees, including stating what is included and what could increase the cost.
At DOT Chambers, our fees for a simplified, uncontested divorce start from $1,690 (where there are no ancillary matters) and $2,890 (where there are children, maintenance or property). For contested divorces, we give a clear estimate once we understand the scope of your case. Court filing fees and other disbursements are separate.
6. Make sure you can work with them
A divorce can take months, and you will share personal and financial details with your lawyer. Choose someone who explains things clearly, replies within a reasonable time and treats your situation with discretion. Most importantly, choose a lawyer whose judgment and reputation you can trust.
7. Check that they hold a practising certificate
You can confirm that a lawyer is entitled to practise in Singapore through the Law Society of Singapore's Find a Lawyer directory.
Questions to ask at your first consultation
Have you handled divorce cases like mine before?
Who in the firm will work on my case day to day?
Do you expect my divorce to be uncontested or contested, and why?
What are the main risks in my case, particularly for assets and the children?
How do you charge, and what is your estimate for my case?
How long do you expect my divorce to take?
Frequently asked questions
Q: How do I find a good divorce lawyer in Singapore? A: Look for a lawyer who focuses on family law, has handled cases like yours, is recognised by independent surveys or legal directories, and explains their fees clearly.
Q: How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Singapore? A: It depends on whether your divorce is uncontested or contested. At DOT Chambers, a simplified, uncontested divorce starts from $1,690, or $2,890 where there are children, maintenance or property.
Q: Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce? A: You can file without a lawyer, but a lawyer helps make sure the agreed terms on assets, maintenance and the children are fair and acceptable to the Court. Read our guide to uncontested divorce in Singapore.
Speak to our divorce lawyers
Our family law team of dedicated family specialists advises on all matters involving the Family Justice Courts of Singapore. Contact us to arrange a confidential consultation.
