What Happens to Overseas Property in a Divorce?

What happens to our property overseas in a divorce?

One of the issues that crop up during a divorce is the division of matrimonial assets. The definition of “matrimonial assets” can be found in Section 112(10) of the Women’s Charter as follows:

1. any asset acquired before the marriage by one party or both parties to the marriage —
   1. ordinarily used or enjoyed by both parties or one or more of their children while the parties are residing together for shelter or transportation or for household, education, recreational, social or aesthetic purposes; or
   2. which has been substantially improved during the marriage by the other party or by both parties to the marriage; and
2. any other asset of any nature acquired during the marriage by one party or both parties to the marriage,

The same principles apply to assets overseas, which can include the parties’ matrimonial home overseas and other property such as a car, jewellery, shares, and savings that are held in a foreign country.

Once the Court has ascertained that the property overseas should be considered a “matrimonial asset” and included in the pool of assets to be divided, the Court will then determine the appropriate proportions in which the division should take place according to the factors listed in Section 112(2) of the Women’s Charter.

Obtaining an Injunction against the Relocation of a Child

Injunction

If you have reason to believe that there is a real risk and danger of your spouse taking your child abroad (without your knowledge and/ or consent), in situations where

1. any matrimonial proceedings are pending; or
2. one parent has custody of the child to the exclusion of the other

You may apply to the Court for an Injunction order to restrict your spouse from doing so.

What happens if your spouse breaches the Injunction Order?

If your spouse willfully breaches the terms of this injunction, he or she may be liable for contempt of court.

Grant of Leave

On the other hand, if you wish to take your child abroad prior to the courts making a final judgment on the divorce or in a situation where you do not have custody of the child, you may apply to the court for a grant of leave for your child to be taken out of Singapore either unconditionally or subject to conditions or undertakings that the court deems fit.