The Aftermath of Divorce: Alimony in Singapore

When one party decides to file for adivorce in Singapore, they may lack the financial means to look after themselves. After the divorce, they may not find employment or even lack the essential skills to rejoin the workforce. Thus, they may need financial assistance to get back up on their feet or maintain such a lifestyle.

 

 

 

Alimony in Singapore is given to the wife, not to the husband

The Women’s Charter initiates the law about alimony in Singapore, which is referred to as spousal maintenance in the country. The judge considers different factors, which include the earning capacity of both parties. However, even if you earn more money than your husband, you don’t have to worry about making any maintenance payment.

 

Other factors that may be considered by the judge when deciding on the figure include the financial needs, obligations, and responsibilities of the wife, income, properties, and other financial resources of both parties, the duration of the marriage, and the number of children that have to be supported.

 

When giving alimony in Singapore, the court focuses on putting the wife or the ex-wife in a financial position similar to what she would have if the marriage had lasted.

 

Today, there is still no legislation under the women’s Charter or other Singaporean stature that allows the husband or the ex-husband to claim maintenance from the wife or the ex-wife.

 

The Application for Alimony Does Not Require A Divorce Proceeding

Alimony is the most commonly discussed issue when a party file for a divorce in Singapore. However, applying for alimony does not need any divorce process. A wife can already apply for alimony during marriage if the husband refuses to support her financially.

 

What if Husband Refuses to Pay Maintenance Payments?

If the husband has neglected to pay alimony in Singapore, then a wife can recover the arrears through an enforcement application. It is important to take not that only arrears up to a period of three years before the application may be retrieved.

 

If the husband still declines to make the maintenance fees, the judge can force a fine or a sentence. The husband may be jailed for a period of not more than one month for each month of arrears.

 

However, before filing the complaint, the wife is advised to find out where the husband can be found. The presence of the wife may be needed when the court officer gives the summons to the husband.

 

Aside from giving a fine, the judge may also impose an order for the employer of the husband to deduct the maintenance fee out of his income. In such cases, the wife is informed to find out the name and the address of the employer of the husband.

 

 

 

However, if you are looking to file for divorce in Singapore, you can seek legal advice from Jonathan Wong, an expert divorce lawyer from The Singapore Family Lawyer. He will guide you regarding alimony in Singapore and other divorce procedures effectively.

 

related article:- What are the Legal Divorce Procedures in Singapore?