Maintenance
Wives and children are entitled to claim alimony (known in Singapore as maintenance) both before and after a divorce. In the event that a husband does not pay, a wife/ex-wife may ask the Court to order payment. Failure to pay maintenance pursuant to an Order of Court may be punishable by a fine and/or jail term.
Either party may also make an application to vary the maintenance amount. Generally speaking, whether this will be allowed will depend on whether there has been a material change in the applicant’s circumstances. For example, if a husband has lost his job, he may succeed in an application to reduce the maintenance payable.
We routinely handle such applications and are well-placed to advise you on the same.
FAQs
1. How much spousal maintenance can I get?
This is a fact-sensitive question that will depend on many factors. These factors include, but are not limited to: parties’ respective incomes and expenses as well the post-divorce division of assets.
2. Is it true that a husband must pay a wife maintenance?
Not necessarily. Maintenance is only ordered where it would be fair and equitable to do so. If a wife earns the same or more than a husband and if parties do not have children, it is unlikely for such a wife to be awarded maintenance.
See: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/maintenance-not-an-unalloyed-right-of-women-judge
Reach Us
We offer a free, non-obligatory consultation of up to 30 minutes for first-time clients. Please feel free to reach out to us anytime.
2 Havelock Road
#06-06 Havelock II
Singapore 059763