Alimony Singapore
Alimony, also known as spousal support, refers to the legal obligation for one spouse to financially support the other following family law or divorce proceedings. It's essential to note that child support and alimony are distinct. Child support concerns the financial obligation of a parent to provide for their children, separate from alimony.
Types of Alimony
Various forms of alimony are recognised in Singapore:
Temporary Alimony
Also known as pendente lite support, this temporary financial assistance aims to sustain the lower-earning spouse throughout the divorce proceedings. It covers living expenses, housing, and legal fees until a final divorce settlement is reached.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Intended to assist the receiving spouse in obtaining the necessary education, skills, or expertise to achieve self-sufficiency. This type of support helps in re-establishing the recipient's career after pausing it during the marriage.
Permanent Alimony
Less common but provided in specific cases, usually in long-term marriages where one spouse cannot achieve financial independence due to various factors. This support continues until the recipient remarries or passes away, and it can be modified based on changing circumstances.
Reimbursement Alimony
Awarded when one spouse has significantly contributed financially or made sacrifices during the marriage for the other spouse's professional growth, career, or education. It involves a one-time payment to cover expenses related to career development.
Court Considerations for Alimony in Singapore
The court examines various aspects before granting spousal support. These considerations aim to ensure a fair and practical maintenance order under specific circumstances. The Women's Charter's Section 114 outlines factors taken into account:
Income, earning potential, and financial situation of both spouses
Financial requirements, duties, and responsibilities of each party
Standard of living during the marriage
Duration of the marriage and the spouses' ages
Physical and mental capacities of each spouse
Contributions to the family's well-being
Loss of any benefit that the divorcing party may incur, such as a pension
Nominal Maintenance
In some cases, a spouse might seek nominal maintenance to secure the option of requesting support in the future, even if financially independent at the time of divorce. The court does not automatically mandate nominal maintenance; the spouse must prove eligibility for it.
Eligibility for Alimony in Singapore
Previously, only wives were eligible for alimony. However, since 2016, husbands unable to support their spouses due to incapacity can also request support.
Child Maintenance Determination
The court considers various factors, as outlined in the Women's Charter, Section 69(4), to determine child maintenance. These include the child's financial requirements, parental earning potential, and contributions to the family's well-being.
Your Trusted Partner for Alimony
At High Street Chambers, we understand the complexities and emotional challenges associated with alimony. Our commitment lies in providing legal advice and tailored solutions to suit your specific circumstances. Here are some reasons to choose us:
Legal expertise
Personalised solutions
Transparent communication
Proven track record
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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In Singapore, the court may order spousal support either during or after divorce proceedings, as per Section 113 of the Women's Charter. Filing for spousal maintenance before divorce is not necessary.
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Yes, both husbands and wives who are incapacitated can apply for spousal support in Singapore under Section 113 of the Women's Charter.
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Wives may seek alimony if they are still unable to meet their financial needs despite working, aiming to maintain their quality of life.
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The court may grant one-third or one-fifth of the spouse's net worth as alimony.
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For detailed information on service costs, please contact our team for pricing details tailored to your needs.