How does adultery compare to other divorce grounds in civil cases?

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Adultery Represents a Small Fraction of Civil Divorce Filings in Singapore

In civil divorce cases in Singapore, adultery is cited as the grounds for divorce in a significantly smaller percentage of cases compared to "unreasonable behaviour." In 2025, adultery accounted for only 0.9% of civil divorces, making it the least cited legal fact among those mentioned. This contrasts sharply with "unreasonable behaviour," which was cited in 48.7% of civil divorces, representing nearly half of all such filings.
Adultery's Low Incidence Reflects Legal Hurdles

The low proportion of civil divorces attributed to adultery is largely a consequence of the legal requirements for proving this specific ground. Under Singapore's Women's Charter, establishing adultery necessitates proving a sexual relationship with a third party. This often requires a higher evidential burden, frequently involving the engagement of private investigators and the collection of substantial circumstantial evidence, such as reports and photographs, to substantiate the claim.
"Unreasonable Behaviour" as a Broad and Accessible Ground

The high prevalence of "unreasonable behaviour" as a basis for civil divorce stems from its broad definition. This category encompasses a wide array of marital issues, including various forms of abuse, controlling conduct, addiction, gambling, financial neglect, and even extra-marital affairs. Its wide scope makes it a more practical and accessible legal fact to establish for couples seeking to dissolve their marriage, avoiding the more stringent proof required for adultery.
Introduction of Mutual Agreement Streamlines Divorce Process

The introduction of divorce by mutual agreement on July 1, 2024, has also influenced divorce statistics, becoming the third most commonly cited legal fact in 2025. This provision allows couples to acknowledge the irretrievable breakdown of their marriage without assigning blame. Previously, even in mutual separations, one party often had to allege "unreasonable behaviour" against the other to satisfy legal requirements, making the process more confrontational. The mutual agreement option facilitates a less adversarial approach, enabling couples to focus on resolving issues concerning children and finances.

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How does adultery compare to other divorce grounds in civil cases?

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