Derek is an Associate Director at PKWA Law, specialising in family law and civil litigation matters. Derek is a strong believer in therapeutic justice and looks for practical solutions for his clients. Feedback from his clients highlights his thoughtfulness, attentiveness, and sensitivity to the needs of his clients.

Mathea is an Associate Director at PKWA Law. Her areas of expertise include probate, child custody cases, and cases relating to the division on matrimonial assets. She has further advised on complex high-net-worth cases involving the division of assets and maintenance, as well as intricate child-related disputes. She previously worked in one of Singapore’s largest law firms.

Mathea is the lead lawyer in a case that was reported extensively in the media: “Court orders man to pay son’s preschool fees to ex-wife”. She successfully acted for the ex-wife in a case where the ex-husband had refused to pay the school fees.

Helping you navigate changes in court orders after divorce

Following a divorce, it’s not uncommon for circumstances to evolve, necessitating adjustments to existing Court Orders. These changes can arise from personal or financial shifts that occur naturally over time.

Common reasons for varying a Court order include:

Changing Family Dynamics: The expenses related to children and/or an ex-spouse may fluctuate, whether due to increased needs or a decrease in financial obligations.

Financial Transitions: The financial situation of the party responsible for maintenance may also undergo changes, such as job loss, reduced earnings, or illness. These shifts can significantly impact their ability to meet existing obligations.

Best Interests of the Children: In some cases, both parties may recognize that modifying the custody, care, and control of children is in the children’s best interests as they grow and circumstances evolve.

To amend an existing Court Order, you must initiate a legal process known as an application to vary an Order. While pursuing a change, it’s advisable to seek agreement between the parties involved rather than resorting to a contested application.

For comprehensive guidance and expert advice on varying Court Orders, connect with our experienced team of family lawyers. We are here to help you navigate these changes and ensure that the best interests of all parties involved are upheld. Your peace of mind is our priority. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation.

Athelia Ong is a leading family law specialist in Singapore.  She holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) degree from Singapore Management University.  With a client-first philosophy, she approaches each case with a practical lens, understanding and addressing matters from the unique perspective of every client. Athelia handles all family law cases including complex cases involving divorce, probate and wills.

Leading Affordable Probate Lawyers in Singapore

We are a leading and award-winning probate law firm renowned for our affordable and fixed fees.  With fixed fees starting from just $1190, and over 30 years of experience, our probate lawyers have assisted numerous families in obtaining a Grant of Probate (in cases with a will) or a Grant of Letters of Administration (in cases without a will). These grants are instrumental in “unlocking” assets and facilitating their distribution to the beneficiaries.

Experienced probate lawyers

Our lawyers are consistently recognised as leading Singapore family lawyers by the Straits Times, Benchmark Litigation, Asian Legal Business, Singapore Business Review, and Doyles Guide. With a history spanning over three decades, we have also earned the trust of major banks, including DBS, UOB, OCBC, and Maybank.

Fixed and affordable fees

Our probate fees are fixed, clear, and affordable, starting at just $1190. To better understand your unique situation and offer tailored guidance, we provide a free consultation.

Fast results

We typically obtain the Grant of Probate and Letters of Administration within 6 weeks. This ensures that your inheritance matters are resolved promptly.

Contact us today for more information.

Charmaine is a family law specialist.  She graduated from the National University of Singapore with a Bachelor of Laws (Second Class Honours (Upper)) and completed the University Scholars’ Programme.  Charmine brings a client-centric approach, ensuring your perspective is at the forefront of every legal strategy.  Charmaine works in all areas of divorce and family law, which includes complex family law cases that involve cross border and high conflict matters.

The importance of making a Will

A will stands as one of the most pivotal documents you’ll ever create in your lifetime. It’s not just a piece of paper; it’s a powerful legal tool that empowers you to shape the destiny of your assets and wishes after your passing. With a will, you can:

1. Direct the Destiny of Your Assets: Specify how your hard-earned money and valuable assets will be distributed among the people you hold dear.
2. Appoint a Guardian for Your Children: Ensure the well-being of your children by designating a trusted guardian who will nurture and protect them in your absence.
3. Select an Executor: Choose a capable individual to carry out your wishes and oversee the distribution of your estate, providing you with peace of mind that your desires will be fulfilled.

Who Should Consider Making a Will?

The truth is, almost everyone should consider making a will. Here are situations where creating a will is especially crucial:

• Appointing a Trusted Executor: If you wish to entrust someone you trust to fulfil your wishes accurately and responsibly.
• Marriage: When you’re about to tie the knot, creating a will is a wise move to account for your changing circumstances.
• Separation or Divorce: An important reminder: a divorce does not automatically revoke your old will. Updating your will is essential to align it with your current situation.
• Children: If you have children, a will allows you to appoint a trustworthy guardian to manage your assets on their behalf and care for them should both parents pass away.
• Elderly Parents: If you have elderly parents you wish to support, a will ensures they benefit from your assets even when you’re no longer here to provide for them.

The Consequences of Not Having a Will

In the unfortunate event that you pass away without a will, you’ll be considered to have died “intestate.” In such a scenario, the fate of your money and assets falls under the control of the Intestate Succession Act. This means:

• You relinquish control over who administers your estate.
• You have no say in how your assets are distributed.

This default scenario may not align with your desires and could result in unintended consequences. Hence, having a will ensures that your legacy is managed and distributed according to your wishes, providing clarity, and peace of mind to you and your loved ones. Don’t leave your legacy to chance—start crafting your will today.

Sabrina is a specialist family lawyer and criminal lawyer in Singapore.  She graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (Second Class Honours (Upper)) from the National University of Singapore.  Sabrina is committed to understanding your unique needs and delivering effective solutions.  Clients speak of her as someone who who values their concerns and is ready to advocate for their family’s best interests.

Helping you through adoption matters in Singapore

We pride ourselves on our extensive legal expertise and a distinguished track record recognised by Benchmark Litigation, Asian Legal Business, Singapore Business Review, and Doyle’s Guide. With over 30 years of history our commitment to excellence has earned the trust of major banks such as DBS, UOB, OCBC, and Maybank. When you choose us, you’re choosing a safe and trusted partner.

Navigating adoption in Singapore

Adoption begins with understanding the eligibility criteria. To adopt a child in Singapore, the following requirements must be met:

• Child’s age and marital status: The child must be below 21 years old and single.
• Applicant’s age: The applicant must be at least 25 years old.
• Age gap: The applicant must be at least 21 years older (but not more than 50 years older) than the child.

Moreover, solitary male applicants are not permitted to adopt female children, and joint adoption is restricted to married couples. The Adoption of Children Act (ACA) grants the Court the power to make exceptions to these requirements. Exceptions may be made in cases where the child and the applicant are blood relatives, or when both parties in a marriage are at least 25 years old, and they seek to jointly adopt a child less than 21 years below their respective ages.

Consent plays a pivotal role in adoption proceedings, and relevant parties must provide their consent, including:

• The child’s parents.
• The child’s grandparents (if the child’s parents are below 21 years old).
• The child’s guardian (if applicable).
• The child’s custodian (in cases of non-parent custody).
• The financial supporter of the child (if not the child’s parents).
• The applicant’s spouse (if applicable).

Adoption orders can be unconditional, conditional (with specific conditions set by the court), or interim (with probationary terms). Your journey towards adoption begins with us, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.