Going through a divorce can be tricky and full of challenges. It’s easy to make mistakes that could affect you long after the divorce is finalised. 

That’s why knowing these common mistakes and how to avoid them is a big help. Luckily, this guide is here to show you what not to do. 

It gives you a clear understanding of the pitfalls to steer clear of, making the process a bit easier and helping you move forward better with the help of a divorce lawyer in Singapore.

1. Not Hiring A Divorce Lawyer

Divorce laws can be complex and vary by jurisdiction. A lawyer can provide expert guidance tailored to your specific situation. 

Lawyers are skilled in negotiation and can advocate, ensuring your interests are represented, especially in contentious divorces.

Since the legal system is intricate, mistakes in paperwork or legal procedures can happen more often without a lawyer. Such simple mistakes can be costly and will delay court proceedings. 

A lawyer’s job is to accomplish all legal matters on your behalf, and they are less likely to make mistakes. Furthermore, without a lawyer’s advocacy, you may be at a disadvantage, especially if your spouse has legal representation. 

This can result in an imbalance in negotiations, possibly leading to a settlement that must adequately protect your interests or reflect your rights under the law.

2. Letting Emotions Drive Your Decisions

High emotions such as anger, resentment, or grief can cloud judgement during a divorce, leading to decisions that may feel satisfying in the short term but are detrimental in the long run. Emotional decisions often escalate conflicts, making the divorce process more contentious and stressful. 

For instance, you might refuse a fair settlement out of spite, only to find that it would have been the best option financially.

Making a bad decision can lead to a breakdown in communication and make it harder to reach amicable agreements, prolonging the process and increasing legal fees.

Lawyers offer objective, pragmatic advice on divorce matters, helping counter the clouding effect of emotions, enabling clients to make rational, informed decisions. 

They can act as intermediaries between spouses, reducing direct contact and potential conflicts and minimising headed confrontations.

By setting realistic expectations about outcomes, lawyers can help clients avoid disappointments that might arise from emotional decision-making.

3. Neglecting to Update Your Will and Beneficiary Information

If your will or beneficiary designations are updated, your ex-spouse might still be listed as the primary beneficiary which means that in the event of your death, your ex-spouse could receive your assets.

These assets can be in the form of retirement funds, life insurance proceeds, or other benefits instead of going to your children, new partner, or other intended beneficiaries.

An outdated will can create confusion and legal challenges among your heirs. For example, if you leave everything to your ex-spouse but intend to leave assets to your children or new partner, it could result in a contentious legal battle, causing emotional and financial strain on your loved ones.

Similarly, not updating your estate plan can lead to disputes among family members, especially if children are from multiple relationships. These disputes can be emotionally taxing and can tear families apart.

A lawyer can help by reviewing existing wills and writing new wills. They also help with trusts, life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other relevant documents to determine what changes are necessary post-divorce. 

They can advise on the legal implications of divorce on estate planning. This includes how divorce might automatically affect existing wills and beneficiary designations under state law and what additional changes might be needed.

4. Involving Your Children

Children exposed to their parents’ conflicts can experience increased stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. They might worry about the future, feel confused about the situation, or blame themselves for the divorce. 

The child can become estranged from one parent due to the influence of the other in the middle of the divorce, often having long-term effects on the child’s relationship with both parents.

Children who are involved in their parents’ divorce conflicts can also experience developmental issues. Stress and emotional turmoil can affect their academic performance, social interactions, and emotional development. 

Involving children in divorce can disrupt their sense of routine and security as well. Children thrive on stability, and the upheaval of divorce is often challenging enough without the added burden of adult issues.

A child custody lawyer and a divorce lawyer can advise clients on how to approach divorce proceedings in a way that prioritises the well-being of the children. This includes encouraging amicable negotiations and focusing on the children’s needs. 

They can advise parents on how to communicate effectively and respectfully with each other in the presence of children, reducing the likelihood of exposing children to conflict. 

5. Dating Too Quickly After Divorce

People dating soon after a divorce without moving on from their ex-spouse can often experience rebound relationships, typically based more on filling an emotional void than on a genuine connection which may not last. 

Similarly, if you have children, they need time to adjust to the post-divorce changes in their lives. Introducing a new partner too soon can be confusing and upsetting for them, potentially leading to emotional distress or behavioural issues.

Dating during or immediately after divorce can sometimes complicate legal proceedings, especially if your ex-spouse reacts negatively. 

A lawyer can help set realistic expectations about the divorce process and the time it may take to resolve various issues. 

Understanding these timelines can encourage clients to focus on finalising their divorce before starting new relationships. 

In some cases, lawyers might recommend their clients seek counselling or therapy. This can help with emotional healing post-divorce and guide when it might be healthy to start new relationships.

Conclusion About Divorce Lawyers In Singapore

Divorce lawyers in Singapore guide clients through the hardships of divorce, ensuring their rights and interests are well-represented. 

Their expertise extends beyond legal advice, including emotional support and strategic negotiation, which are crucial in achieving fair and amicable settlements. 

These professionals are adept at handling both the technical and personal aspects of divorce, from asset division to custody arrangements. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Lawyers In Singapore

What Are The Qualifications Of A Divorce Lawyer In Singapore?

In Singapore, a divorce lawyer must have a recognised law degree, pass the Singapore Bar Examinations, and complete a practice training contract. They must be admitted to the Singapore Bar and hold a practising certificate issued by the Legal Services Regulatory Authority.

How Does The Legal System In Singapore Handle International Or Expat Divorces?

Singapore’s legal system can handle international or expat divorces if at least one party is domiciled in Singapore at the start of proceedings or has resided in Singapore for at least three years. The court considers international elements like jurisdiction, applicable law, and asset distribution across countries.

What Are The Typical Fees For A Divorce Lawyer In Singapore?

Fees for divorce lawyers in Singapore vary widely based on case complexity, the lawyer’s experience, and the nature of the divorce (contested or uncontested). They typically range from SGD 1,500 to SGD 3,500 for an uncontested divorce and can be significantly higher for contested cases.

How Long Does A Typical Divorce Process Take In Singapore?

An uncontested divorce in Singapore typically takes about 4 to 6 months. Contested divorces can take a year or more, depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule.