Mediation and counselling in a Singapore divorce: CPP, CFRC and other options

Why the system encourages settlement

Singapore’s family justice system encourages couples to resolve disputes without a contested hearing where they safely can. Mediation can happen before proceedings start, at either stage of the divorce, or after it to deal with changes to orders. It is usually quicker and less costly than litigation, keeps discussions confidential, and lets the couple shape their own arrangements, which matters most where they will continue co-parenting.

The Co-Parenting Programme

The Co-Parenting Programme (CPP), which replaced the earlier Mandatory Parenting Programme, is run under the Ministry of Social and Family Development. If you have at least one child under 21, you must complete it before filing for divorce, whether the divorce is contested, uncontested or based on mutual agreement.

The programme combines an online module with consultation with a counsellor, focused on how divorce affects children, how to reduce conflict, and how to plan for parenting after the divorce. Each parent receives a certificate of completion, which is filed with the divorce papers. Couples with children are also expected to set out a parenting plan.

The Child Focused Resolution Centre

The Child Focused Resolution Centre (CFRC) at the Family Justice Courts provides mediation and counselling for divorcing parents who have at least one child under 21. Law firms describe these sessions as mandatory for such parents. They are aimed at helping parents identify their children’s best interests and reach a sustainable parenting arrangement.

Sessions are led by judge-mediators or trained family mediators, working with family counsellors from the courts. The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the case. Lawyers may attend the mediation sessions with their clients, though not usually the counselling sessions.

Court-directed mediation and counselling

The Family Justice Act allows the court to order parties to attend mediation, counselling or other family support programmes where it considers this may help. In contested cases, the court often does so at a case conference, particularly when children are involved.

Family dispute resolution at the courts typically involves a judge and a family counsellor who help clarify and narrow the issues, followed by mediation aimed at reaching agreement without a trial. Under divorce by mutual agreement, the court can also direct a couple to counselling or mediation if it believes reconciliation may still be possible.

Private options

• Private mediation: couples can choose their own mediator or use the Family Mediation Scheme at the Singapore Mediation Centre. Unlike court-based mediation, this is paid for by the parties, but it offers more flexibility on timing.
• Collaborative Family Practice: each spouse instructs a specially trained lawyer, and everyone commits to negotiating a settlement through structured meetings instead of going to court. Other professionals, such as financial or child specialists, can be involved.
• Negotiation through lawyers: spouses can also negotiate through their own lawyers, often in four-way meetings, without formal mediation.

What happens if you reach agreement

If you reach agreement in court-based mediation, the terms can be recorded by the judge or mediator as an order of court, binding on both parties. A written agreement reached in private mediation and signed by both spouses is also binding, and agreed terms can be recorded by the court as a consent order. If you cannot agree, the unresolved issues go back to the court to decide.

When to speak with a lawyer

Mediation works best when you understand your legal position before you go in. A lawyer can explain what outcome a court would be likely to reach, help you prepare, attend mediation sessions with you and check any proposed agreement before you sign it.