In the realm of family law in Singapore, the role of a family lawyer extends far beyond facilitating divorces. While divorce cases may be prominent, these legal professionals offer a spectrum of services that cater to the intricate dynamics of family relationships and the diverse needs of individuals. From adoption to estate planning, family lawyers play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and well-being of families in Singapore. Let’s explore the myriad services they provide beyond divorce.
Marital Agreements
Marital agreements, such as prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements, are increasingly common in Singapore. Family lawyers help couples draft these agreements to address financial matters, property division, and other relevant issues before or during marriage. Marital agreements provide clarity and certainty, helping couples navigate potential conflicts and protect their interests in the event of divorce or other contingencies.
Adoption
Adoption is a profoundly rewarding journey that transforms the lives of both children and adoptive parents. In Singapore, the adoption process is governed by strict legal procedures to ensure the welfare of the child and the rights of all parties involved. Family lawyers specializing in adoption facilitate this process, guiding prospective parents through the legal requirements, liaising with adoption agencies, and representing them in court when necessary. Their expertise ensures that adoptions proceed smoothly, ethically, and in compliance with Singaporean laws, fostering the formation of loving families.
Child-Related Issues
Child-related issues such as custody, care and control can arise not only during divorce proceedings but also in cases of separation or when circumstances change post-divorce. Family lawyers in Singapore assist parents in negotiating custody arrangements that prioritize the best interests of the child. They provide invaluable guidance on matters such as parental rights, access schedules, and relocation issues, advocating for their clients’ interests while ensuring that the welfare and best interest of the child is of paramount consideration. Additionally, family lawyers may also help in obtaining guardianship of the child for non-parents, ensuring the child’s welfare and protection.
Wife and Children Maintenance
Maintenance for the wife and/or children is a common issue in many family cases. Family lawyers in Singapore can help navigate the intricacies of a maintenance application. While maintenance is common post-divorce, maintenance is available to those who are still married and during divorce proceedings. Family lawyers provide legal advice on calculating maintenance payments, enforcing court orders, and resolving disputes related to financial support. By advocating for fair and equitable solutions, family lawyers play a crucial role in safeguarding the financial well-being of the children and of the wife.
Maintenance is also available to incapacitated husbands who are unable to provide for themselves. Family lawyers do not only advocate for women and children, they also help incapacitated husbands in need of financial support due to physical and/or mental disability.
Domestic Violence and Protection Orders
Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects families in Singapore. Family lawyers offer support and legal assistance to victims of domestic abuse, helping them obtain protection orders under the Women’s Charter. They guide clients through the legal process, providing compassionate advocacy and ensuring their safety and well-being. Conversely, family lawyers also defend individuals falsely accused of domestic violence, ensuring their rights are protected while upholding the principles of due process and justice.
Estate Planning and Probate
Estate planning is a vital aspect of family law that often involves complex legal considerations and principles. Family lawyers assist individuals and families in Singapore with drafting wills, establishing trusts, and planning their estates to ensure the orderly distribution of assets after death. They provide strategic advice on minimizing estate taxes, protecting assets, and appointing executors and trustees. Additionally, family lawyers are crucial in facilitating the probate process, as well as advocating in contested probate matters, guiding families through the legal procedures required to administer the deceased’s estate in accordance with the law.
Mental Capacity-Related Issues
Lasting Power of Attorney (“LPA”) is a legal document that ensures that in the event that an individual loses mental capacity due to an illness or accident (the “Donor”), a person of the Donor’s choice (the “Donee”), is empowered to make decisions on behalf of the donor. This ensures that while the Donor is alive, his or her interest and welfare are well taken care of. A family lawyer in Singapore is able to prepare and certify the Lasting Power of Attorney as well as to advise you on a suitable person to be appointed as the Donee.
Varying Court Orders
Whether it is a custody, care and control, or access order, a maintenance order for wife and/or children, or a protection order against family violence, sometimes circumstances changes and you need to modify or vary the court order granted. In such circumstances, a family lawyer is able to guide and help you through the application process and also represent you in court to ensure that despite a change in circumstances, your rights and interests are still met and protected.
Conclusion
In Singapore, family lawyers play a multifaceted role in addressing the diverse legal needs of families and individuals beyond divorce proceedings. From preparing and reviewing marital agreements, facilitating adoptions, resolving child-related disputes to providing legal protection against domestic violence and assisting with estate planning, their expertise encompasses a wide range of family-related matters. By upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and the best interests of the child, family lawyers in Singapore contribute significantly to the well-being and stability of families in Singapore. Their dedication to serving their clients with compassion, professionalism, and integrity underscores their indispensable role in the advocating and protecting the rights of those in need.
