PAM is an optional process that is conducted at the pre-filing stage when the divorce process has not legally started. In contrast, mediation at the FJC is a mandatory process for parties who have at least one child below 21 years old, and only begins after the Writ of Divorce has been filed and there are matters which are contested.

Before filing for divorce, parties are more open to negotiations, and settlement can be reached more quickly. Once the divorce process has started and there are matters being contested, parties often take opposing sides, and it is more difficult to reach a settlement. This can lead to extensive litigation (i.e. “fighting out” the matters in Court), which cost extra. Hence, you may wish to consider PAM before filing for divorce to avoid extensive litigation.

During the mediation session, you and your spouse will be given time to discuss how you wish the matter to be resolved, and to voice any concerns you may have. A mediator will guide your negotiations with the goal of reaching a mutual agreement. If needed, the mediator may speak to you and your spouse in private sessions.

You may opt to attend PAM either in-person at a FAM@FSC^[2] or online via Zoom videoconferencing. You and your spouse should jointly decide on your preferred mode of PAM and inform the FAM@FSC when registering for PAM. Should you wish to attend PAM via Zoom videoconferencing, you will need your own personal device (preferably tablet device or larger).

You may attend PAM without a lawyer. However, if you have engaged a lawyer, he or she may sit in to facilitate the process.

As PAM requires the active participation of both parties to reach an agreement, it would only be possible if both you and your spouse have voluntarily agreed to participate in the process.

Should the PAM mediator assess that there is a reasonable chance of reaching a settlement through a further PAM session, the PAM mediator may suggest having one. If no settlement is reached, then you and your spouse may proceed to file for divorce in Court on the normal track. Do note that mediation is without prejudice. This means that in the event of subsequent Court hearings, whatever you share during mediation cannot be used against you.

Generally, you would need to prepare the following documents:

• Payslips for the past 3 months
• IRAS Notice of Assessment (NOA) for the past 3 years
• CPF transaction history for the past 1 year
• HDB or bank outstanding mortgage loan
• Desktop valuation of flat or property
• CPF public or private housing withdrawal statements
• Bank statements for the past 3 months
• List of investments
• Insurance policies for yourself, your spouse, and/or your child(ren)
• Other asset valuations (e.g. cars, club memberships etc.)
• List of personal expenses
• List of expenses for the children

If you and/or your spouse do not prepare the required documents, the mediator may not be able to conduct the mediation as effectively.