How matrimonial assets are divided is a hotly contested topic for couples going through a divorce. In some cases, it can substantially affect a person’s standard of living.
So what’s a fair proportion to split the house? How about a business started together? Or the car they bought?
This article will answer questions about the division of matrimonial assets and financial obligations after getting a divorce in Singapore.
Just like how marriage involves two parties putting in the effort to make their relationship work, it’s only fair that when a marriage dissolves, matrimonial assets are divided according to each party’s financial and non-financial contributions.
Since there are many asset classes and variations of assets, the processes of dividing these matrimonial assets can be rather complex.
Under section 112(10) of the Women’s Charter, matrimonial assets include:
Assets which are excluded from the definition of matrimonial assets are:
Common examples of matrimonial assets include the family car, matrimonial home, shares and equities, savings, the cash balance in the couple’s respective Central Provident Fund (CPF) accounts, bank accounts (be it in sole or joint names), businesses, jewellery, etc.
The Court has also agreed that lottery winnings (e.g. from 4D or TOTO) obtained during the marriage are also considered matrimonial assets.
In this case study, the husband paid for the house and it was held solely in his name. The wife paid for the renovation and did all the household chores and upkeep of the house. The wife argued that she should have a rightful share in the matrimonial home.
The Court ruled that their matrimonial home could be contested as the wife was able to provide evidence that the value of the home was substantially improved by her.
In order to reach a fair result whilst dividing contested assets, the Court will take several factors into consideration during the ancillary matters hearing.
This includes any monetary contributions in obtaining, maintaining and improving the said asset.
E.g. Down-payments, mortgage repayments, conservancy fees, property tax, renovations (that significantly improves the home value. etc)
Indirect contributions will be considered too, since they play a role in maintaining or strengthening the marriage.
E.g. Home furnishings, looking after the household, caring for elderly or invalid family members, and even support for the spouse in their career endeavours
In some cases, loans might be taken up and debt might be incurred. The Court will look into whether it was taken for the benefit of both parties, for the needs of the child, or for one individual’s benefit. Repayment terms will be decided accordingly.
In determining the needs of the children, the Court will take into account requirements for care and control of the child.
While deciding on the division of the couple’s matrimonial assets, the court can refer to their prenuptial / postnuptial agreements, if they had any drawn up. Refer to section 112 of the Women’s Charter, or speak to our legal team for more information.
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After an Interim Judgment for the divorce is granted, the Ccourt will fix a date for a Status Conference. At the Status Conference, the Court will recommend an out-of-court settlement first, with mediation and counselling. The counselling and mediation may last between 1-3 sessions, depending on the parties’ willingness to negotiate.
If settlement is not possible, the Court will give timelines for the parties to file an Affidavit of Assets and Means (AOM). There will be 2 rounds of AOMs filed by each party. An Application for Discovery can be submitted that requires the parties to present all assets, bills and bank records if the information provided in either party’s AOM is not complete.
In an uncontested simplified divorce case where both parties agree to all the terms, there will be no need for counselling and mediation; the process will be much quicker, cheaper, and less painful.
Agreeing how ownership of a home should be divided is not the end of the story.
These are just some of the questions you should consider before deciding on your divorce ancillary matters.
Read our other article for more information on wife, child and husband maintenance.
Divorce isn’t an enjoyable process for anyone, but hopefully with a clearer understanding of what to expect, you’ll be able to get through this trying time and focus on what’s truly important to you.
Do you need any help with your divorce proceedings or advice regarding dividing your matrimonial assets in Singapore? Talk to us, our experienced team of lawyers are here to help.