Matrimonial Law in Singapore: What a Private Investigator Can Tell You About Your Rights
- Absolute Digital
- Aug 19
- 5 min read
Why Understanding Matrimonial Law Matters
Whether you're in the middle of a marital dispute or quietly wondering about your legal rights, understanding Singapore’s matrimonial law can give you a much-needed sense of clarity. Divorce and separation are emotional, but they’re also legal processes that affect your family, finances, and future.
In moments of uncertainty, some individuals also choose to work with a Private Investigator in Singapore — not to snoop, but to document facts, verify concerns, and provide clarity in a legal context.
This article breaks down the basics of matrimonial law in Singapore, explains how the process works, and shows how a Singapore Private Investigator can support individuals navigating complex family matters.
What Is Matrimonial Law in Singapore?
Matrimonial law governs all legal matters related to marriage, separation, and divorce. This includes:
The legal grounds for divorce
Child custody and care arrangements
Division of assets and liabilities
Spousal maintenance
Singapore’s laws aim to ensure fairness and protect the rights of all parties involved — including children. But understanding how the law applies to your situation requires more than just Googling legal terms.
Who Can File for Divorce in Singapore?
To file for divorce in Singapore, you or your spouse must:
Be a Singapore citizen, or
Have lived in Singapore for at least 3 years before filing
Also, you must have been married for at least 3 years, unless there are exceptional circumstances (such as proven hardship).
Singapore follows a no-fault divorce system, meaning that there's only one legal ground for divorce: the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
This breakdown can be proven through one or more of the following:
Separation (usually 3 years with consent, or 4 years without)
Desertion for 2 years
Unreasonable behaviour
Adultery (note: specific terms and proof apply, and naming third parties is discouraged by the court)
In cases involving suspicion or uncertainty, some individuals may engage a Private Investigator in Singapore to gather factual evidence before initiating the legal process.
How Can a Singapore Private Investigator Help in Matrimonial Matters?
While lawyers handle the legal filings, Private Investigators assist with fact-finding and documentation. Here’s how:
1. Verifying Claims Before Legal Proceedings
Before filing for divorce, it’s common for one party to feel unsure whether they have enough information or cause. A licensed Singapore Private Investigator can help collect relevant, legally-admissible evidence that gives clarity.
2. Lifestyle & Background Checks
A PI can discreetly confirm whether your partner’s actions or lifestyle changes align with what they've disclosed. This can be important in custody or asset-related decisions.
In cases involving child custody, courts will look at each parent's conduct, lifestyle, and ability to care for the child. Investigators may help gather observations that show how a parent behaves outside of court.
4. Documentation for Court Proceedings
A Private Detective can supply professional reports and documentation — compiled lawfully — that may be submitted in court through your lawyer.
5. Peace of Mind
Even when no legal action follows, knowing the truth about a situation can bring peace of mind and help you move forward.
What to Expect When Working With a Private Investigator in Singapore
Everything discussed is kept strictly private. Reputable firms like Asia Top Investigation follow all legal and professional standards.
Professionalism
You will not be encouraged to break the law or install any form of surveillance. Licensed PIs only use approved observation and fact-gathering techniques.
Clear Process
You’ll have a consultation where you can explain your situation. The investigator will explain what’s possible, what’s not, and what the next steps might look like.
What Happens After Divorce Is Filed?
The divorce process in Singapore has two stages:
1. Dissolution of Marriage
The court decides whether the marriage has broken down irretrievably. If accepted, the court will grant an Interim Judgment of Divorce.
2. Ancillary Matters
These include:
Division of matrimonial assets
Custody and care of children
Maintenance (alimony or child support)
Each party must submit an affidavit of assets and means, which outlines their financial situation. Sometimes, parties may understate assets. If you suspect this, a PI may help confirm the truth.
Courts aim to divide assets fairly — not necessarily equally. They’ll consider:
Each party’s contributions (financial and non-financial)
The needs of children (if any)
The length of the marriage
If one spouse suspects hidden assets or undisclosed income, a PI can help document financial inconsistencies, which may support your lawyer’s case.
Child Custody and Care
Custody can be:
Sole (one parent has full rights)
Joint (both parents share decisions)
Hybrid (a mix, depending on circumstances)
Even if custody is shared, care and control — who the child lives with — often goes to one parent. Evidence of the child’s daily environment, parental behaviour, and other factors can influence this decision.
Maintenance (Spousal or Child Support)
The court may order one party to pay maintenance to:
A former spouse
Children of the marriage
The amount depends on the financial needs and earning capacity of each party. Evidence of a party's expenses or hidden income may be relevant.
Common Misconceptions
1. "I Can File for Divorce Without Evidence"
Yes, but evidence can strengthen your case, especially when it comes to custody, asset division, or claims of unreasonable behaviour.
2. "I Need to Catch Someone Doing Something Wrong"
Not necessarily. Sometimes, the role of a PI is to confirm the absence of wrongdoing — or to gather clarity, not accusations.
3. "Hiring a PI Sounds Like I'm Spying"
A licensed PI follows strict legal methods. The goal is clarity, not conflict.
When Should You Talk to a Private Investigator?
Consider speaking to a PI when:
You suspect your spouse is hiding information that may affect legal outcomes
You’re unsure whether you have grounds to begin divorce proceedings
You need peace of mind before making a major life decision
Private Investigators offer discreet, factual insights that empower you to make informed choices.
Why Choose Asia Top Investigation?
Asia Top Investigation is a licensed and experienced team of Private Investigators in Singapore. Known for our professionalism, ethics, and client confidentiality, we’ve supported hundreds of individuals through difficult life moments.
Whether you’re preparing for legal action or simply need answers, we’re here to help.
Final Thoughts
Matrimonial law is complex, but understanding it — and your rights — doesn’t have to be. If you’re going through relationship uncertainty, know that you don’t have to navigate it alone.
A Private Investigator in Singapore can support your legal team, provide important insights, and help you move forward with confidence.
Speak With Us in Confidence
Whether you’re at the start of a difficult decision or already navigating the legal process, you don’t have to go through it without support. Understanding your rights starts with a conversation — and we're here to listen.
Our team at Asia Top Investigation offers discreet, no-obligation consultations to help you explore your situation and your options.
📞 Call us at +65 8820 0007
📧 Email us at vt@asiatopinvestigation.com
🌐 Visit www.asiatopinvestigation.com
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