Simplified Divorce in Singapore: Navigating the New Mutual Agreement Route

Divorce by mutual agreement

Divorce doesn't have to be adversarial. With the new Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) route introduced on 1 July 2024, couples in Singapore can now divorce amicably, without assigning fault, provided they meet certain conditions.

At JK Law Chambers, we guide clients through this smoother, cost-effective path—helping you end your marriage with respect, dignity, and clarity.

What’s New: The DMA Route

The Women's Charter was amended to include Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) as a sixth legal fact for divorce, alongside adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, three years’ separation with consent, and four years without consent.

Under DMA:

• No fault needs to be proven;

• No mandatory separation period;

• Both spouses must agree the marriage has irretrievably broken down;

• A written agreement must set out reasons, reconciliation efforts, and arrangements for children

Who Qualifies for DMA?

To file through DMA, couples must:

• Be married for at least three years

• Submit a formal written agreement documenting:

  1. Reasons for irretrievable breakdown;

  2. Steps taken to reconcile;

  3. Financial and child-care arrangements

Simplified DMA Process

Step 1: Legal Consultation

A family lawyer will review your eligibility, draft the written agreement, and explain the process clearly.

Step 2: File with Courts

Documents include:

• Writ for Divorce

• Statement of Claim & Particulars

• Agreed Parenting Plan (if applicable)

• Matrimonial Property Plan

• Written agreement under DMA

Step 3: Court Review

The court reviews:

• Credibility of reasons & reconciliation efforts

• Fairness of arrangements

• Possibility of reconciliation (may request counselling)

Step 4: Interim Judgment

Once accepted, an Interim Judgment is granted.

Step 5: Final Judgment

After 3 months, the Final Judgment is issued — and the divorce is official.

Timeline & Costs

Timeline

• Typically 4–6 months, assuming cooperation on ancillary matters.

Costs

• Legal fees range from SGD 1,200–2,000 for simplified divorce.

• DMA often reduces legal costs further by removing the need to prove fault.

Why Choose DMA?

• No blame, no stress — no need to allege wrongdoing

• Fast and efficient — streamlined process

• Amicable and respectful — cooperative tone

• Child-friendly — aligned with new co-parenting programmes required for children under 21

• Cost-effective — fewer court hearings

Important Considerations

• Both spouses must fully agree and participate in drafting the agreement.

• If any issue (e.g. custody or property) remains unresolved, DMA may no longer qualify — the case becomes contested.

• Court retains discretion to reject DMA applications if reconciliation seems possible or arrangements are unfair pkwalaw.comsingaporedivorcelawyer.com.sg+5rajahtannasia.com+5lawgazette.com.sg+5.

How DMA Compares

Feature	DMA (New Route)	Traditional Divorce
Proof of Fault	❌ Not required	✅ Required in most cases
Separation Requirement	❌ None (if DMA)	✔️ 3–4 years depending
Court Hearings?	❌ Not needed	Sometimes required
Stress Level	🟢 Lower	🔴 Higher
Cost	💰 Lower	💰 Higher

Why JK Law Chambers?

• In-depth experience in family law & the new DMA route

• Clear, compassionate advice—no rushed decisions

• Efficient documentation and court submission

• Fixed-fee options and transparent pricing

Ready to Start?

Take control of your divorce journey with empathy and efficiency. Contact JK Law Chambers for a confidential consultation:

• Call / Whatsapp: +65 8110 9695

• Email: info@jklc.com.sg

• Visit: www.jklc.com.sg