Divorce, while a challenging ordeal, can be navigated with grace and mutual respect, especially in a multicultural society like Singapore. As many couples seek alternatives to the adversarial court process, divorce mediation emerges as a compelling pathway towards an amicable resolution. While engaging with skilled divorce lawyers is invaluable, mediation offers a unique opportunity for couples to come together in a constructive environment to negotiate the terms of their separation.
Understanding Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation in Singapore is a voluntary process where a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps couples negotiate and reach amicable agreements on various aspects of their divorce, including child custody, division of assets, and maintenance payments. The primary goal is to facilitate constructive communication between the parties, enabling them to find mutually acceptable solutions without the need for contentious court battles.
Do take note that there are two possible routes for mediation: Court-based mediation and private family mediation
Court-Based Mediation
Court-based mediation is a key component of the family justice system in Singapore. It is typically initiated as part of the divorce proceedings when a couple files for divorce through the Family Justice Courts. This type of mediation is facilitated by trained mediators who are often experienced family law practitioners or social service professionals. The primary aim is to assist couples in resolving their disputes in a less formal, more collaborative environment than a courtroom setting would allow.
Interestingly, if the couple has a child/children under the age of 21 and are opting for a contested divorce, they are required to take the Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) Programme.
For divorcing couples with no children, or with children above 21 years old, the Family Court can also fix the case for counselling and/or mediation if the court is of the view that the couple should try to resolve matters amicably.
Private Mediation/ Out-of-Court Mediation
Private mediation offers an alternative route for couples seeking to resolve their divorce-related disputes outside the court system. This form of mediation is conducted by private mediators, who can be experienced divorce lawyers in Singapore with specialized training in mediation, or other professionals with expertise in family mediation. The flexibility of private mediation allows couples to schedule sessions at their convenience and often in a more comfortable, less formal setting.
There are certain programs that the government instituted to make private mediation a bit better for Singaporeans. Here are some examples:
This scheme was developed by the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC) to provide a faster and cheaper alternative for divorce. Under this scheme, the mediator, as a neutral third party, will assist couples undergoing divorce to resolve the relevant issues involved and 1) encourage the end of family discord 2) smooth out domestic conflicts, and 3) keep costs affordable.
This is also another program of the SMC. This innovative approach goes beyond traditional mediation by involving a team of professionals, including lawyers, financial advisors, and child specialists, all working collaboratively to assist families in reaching comprehensive settlements. The goal of CFP is to:
- Foster a cooperative rather than adversarial environment, encouraging families to work together to find solutions that best meet their needs and those of their children.
- Provide a holistic approach to divorce, addressing not just legal issues but also the emotional and financial well-being of the entire family.
- Promote settlements that are sustainable and tailored to the unique circumstances of each family, thereby reducing the likelihood of future conflicts.
Benefits of Mediation in Divorce Proceedings

Mediation in divorce proceedings offers numerous advantages over traditional litigation, making it a preferred choice for many Singaporean couples seeking to resolve their marital disputes. This method not only aligns with Singapore’s legal ethos of promoting amicable resolutions but also provides practical, emotional, and financial benefits to the parties involved. Here are some of the benefits:
- Reduced Emotional Stress: Mediation is designed to be a less adversarial process, which can significantly lower the emotional strain on both parties and any children involved.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional litigation, mediation is often more time-efficient and less costly, as it tends to resolve disputes more quickly.
- Control Over the Outcome: Couples have more say in the agreements reached, as opposed to having terms dictated by a court.
- Confidentiality: Mediation sessions are private and confidential, ensuring that the matters discussed do not become public records.
- Preserving Relationships: Especially important for couples with children, mediation can help preserve a cordial relationship post-divorce. By encouraging respectful communication and mutual understanding, mediation lays the groundwork for effective co-parenting, ensuring that both parents remain actively involved in their children’s lives without ongoing conflict.
Final Thoughts
Divorce mediation in Singapore offers a pathway for couples to resolve their differences with respect, dignity, and mutual understanding. By focusing on collaboration and open communication, mediation can help families transition through divorce with more positive outcomes and lessened acrimony. For couples considering this route, understanding the process and engaging with skilled mediators are vital steps towards achieving a harmonious resolution.