Many couples understandably dread the thought of lengthy and costly court battles when facing the difficult decision to end a marriage. Fortunately, Singapore’s family law system offers a more constructive path through mediation in matrimonial matters—a process that promotes dialogue, reduces conflict, and puts the best interests of the family first.
In this article, we explore how mediation works in Singapore’s divorce process, the types of mediation available, and how it can lead to more amicable outcomes without litigation.
What Is Mediation in Divorce?
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method where a neutral third party (the mediator) helps separating couples communicate, identify shared concerns, and work toward mutually acceptable solutions. It can take place before, during, or even after divorce proceedings, and it aims to preserve relationships, especially where children are involved.Why Choose Mediation?
Couples are increasingly turning to mediation in divorce because it:
- Saves time, money, and stress
- Encourages open communication and reduces hostility
- Empowers parties to make their own decisions
- Helps maintain longer-term family relationships
In fact, according to the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC), more than 90% of mediated cases that reach a resolution are concluded within one working day. Moreover, 94% of participants say they would recommend mediation to others in similar situations.
Where Does Mediation Fit in the Divorce Process?
Under Singapore’s 2-stage divorce process, mediation can occur at multiple points:
Stage 1: Termination of Marriage
Here, the court determines if there are grounds for divorce (e.g., adultery, unreasonable behaviour, separation).
Stage 2: Ancillary Matters
This involves resolving issues such as:
- Child custody and care and control
- Division of matrimonial assets
- Spousal and child maintenance
Mediation is frequently applied at this stage to resolve contested matters, especially involving children and property.
Types of Family Mediation in Singapore
Singapore’s legal system integrates several mediation pathways tailored for matrimonial cases:
Private Mediation
Conducted at the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC) or with private mediators. SMC offers a Family Mediation Scheme designed to help couples resolve disputes amicably and cost-effectively.
Compulsory Mediation at the Child Focused Resolution Centre (CFRC)
Mandatory for divorcing couples with children under 21. This court-directed programme combines mediation and counselling to prioritise the child’s welfare and support co-parenting.
Court-Directed Mediation – Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)
This process is overseen by a Judge and Family Counsellor, where issues are clarified and narrowed. A co-mediation session may follow, with the goal of reaching agreement without trial.
When Can Mediation Take Place?
Mediation is highly flexible and can occur at different points:
- Before filing for divorce: Parties may opt for private mediation to resolve disputes before proceedings begin.
- During Stage 1 (Termination): CFRC mediation is mandatory if children are involved.
- During Stage 2 (Ancillary Matters): Parties can mediate after exchanging financial and parenting-related documents.
- After the divorce: Issues like variation of orders or enforcement may still be resolved through post-divorce mediation.
Other Alternatives to Litigation
Besides mediation, Singapore’s Family Justice Courts also support:
Collaborative Family Practice (CFP)
A voluntary process where both parties hire CFP-trained lawyers and pledge not to litigate. Negotiations occur in a structured environment, with face-to-face “4-way meetings” involving both spouses and their lawyers. CFP offers a private, respectful, and child-focused approach to settlement.
4-Way Negotiations
Similar to CFP but without the requirement for specialist training. Parties meet with their respective lawyers to negotiate “without prejudice,” aiming to settle the terms of divorce out of court.
Is Mediation Suitable for You?
Mediation in matrimonial matters is especially beneficial if you are looking for:
- A dignified and amicable way to separate
- A child-centric and non-confrontational resolution
- Confidential discussions without public court hearings
- A faster and more affordable process compared to litigation
How We Can Help
At Gloria James-Civetta & Co, we recognise that every family is different. We approach each case with a commitment to preserving relationships where possible while protecting our clients’ legal interests.
Our managing partner, Ms. Gloria James, is a Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC), accredited mediator and one of the first lawyers in Singapore trained in the Collaborative Family Practice (CFP) model.
With over 30 years of experience in family law, she has guided numerous clients through complex and emotionally sensitive matrimonial disputes using non-litigious methods. Her dual expertise as both a mediator and family lawyer allows her to help clients explore alternative resolution pathways that prioritise dignity, privacy, and long-term outcomes, especially in cases involving children and multi-jurisdictional elements.
Whether you are considering mediation before filing for divorce or seeking to resolve issues post-divorce, our team is well-equipped to assist you through each stage of the process.
