The Services
Three ways the firm can assist your family.
Each service is designed to match a different stage of need. All three carry a fixed fee, stated before any work begins.
← Back to HomeOur Methodology
How the firm approaches family matters
Listen First
Every matter begins with the client's account, given at their own pace. The lawyer asks questions only to clarify, not to lead.
Advise Plainly
The firm provides a clear view of the client's position and the options available, in plain English. Written notes follow meetings.
Proceed Carefully
Steps are taken in the order that makes sense for the matter, not in the order that is most efficient for the firm. The client approves each stage.
Service 01
Drawing-Room Sitting
A first meeting at the firm's office, conducted at the pace of an ordinary conversation. You describe your situation. The lawyer listens, asks a small number of clarifying questions, and offers a considered view. A written summary of what was discussed follows afterwards.
This sitting is suited to those who would value a settled view of their position before deciding whether or how to proceed further. There is no obligation to engage booncounara after the sitting.
What is included
- Private meeting at Peninsula Plaza (approximately one hour)
- Assessment of your legal position under Singapore family law
- Review of the options available and what each involves
- Written summary of the sitting, provided within three working days
Typical process
- 01Client contacts the firm to arrange an appointment
- 02Sitting takes place at the firm's office at Peninsula Plaza
- 03Written summary provided within three working days
- 04Client decides, in their own time, whether to proceed further
Fixed Fee
SGD 175
Service 02
Patient Course in Family Proceedings
Full legal representation in divorce, separation, and custody proceedings before the Family Justice Courts in Singapore. The firm conducts proceedings at a measured pace and keeps the client informed at each stage. Settlement is pursued where it is achievable and in the client's interests.
Matters covered include: divorce petitions, applications for interim orders, ancillary matters (division of matrimonial assets, maintenance), and custody and access applications.
What is included
- Full representation in Singapore Family Justice Court proceedings
- Preparation and filing of all required court documents
- Negotiation with opposing party and counsel
- Written updates after each significant development
- Court attendance at all relevant hearings
Typical timeline
- 01Initial Drawing-Room Sitting (if not already completed)
- 02Engagement confirmed; fee agreed in writing
- 03Documents prepared and proceedings commenced
- 04Negotiation or contested hearing, depending on the matter
- 05Order of court; follow-up advice on implementation if needed
Fixed Fee
SGD 470
Service 03
Considered Mediation
Mediation in family disputes, conducted with restraint and attention to the practical effect on the family. In mediation, the parties retain more control over the outcome than in court proceedings. Agreements reached in mediation tend to be more durable because both parties have shaped them.
booncounara's mediation associate is accredited with the Singapore Mediation Centre. Mediation can proceed independently of court proceedings, or alongside them where the court has directed parties to attempt mediation.
What is included
- Pre-mediation consultation to understand the client's position
- Joint mediation session with all parties and mediator
- Assistance in drafting any agreement reached
- Advice on next steps if mediation does not produce agreement
Mediation is often suited to
- Families with children who need to maintain contact with both parents
- Parties who prefer to avoid contested court proceedings
- Cases where a flexible, agreed arrangement is more useful than a court order
Fixed Fee
SGD 330
Choosing the Right Service
Which service is right for your situation?
If you are uncertain which service fits your situation, the Drawing-Room Sitting is the natural starting point. After that sitting, you will have a clearer picture of your options.
| Situation | Drawing-Room Sitting | Family Proceedings | Mediation |
|---|---|---|---|
| You need a clear view of your legal position | — | — | |
| You are considering a divorce or separation | |||
| You need representation in court proceedings | — | — | |
| You prefer to avoid contested proceedings | — | — | |
| You are uncertain how to begin | — | — | |
| There are children whose arrangements need to be settled |
Standards & Protocols
Shared across all services
Confidentiality
All communications are subject to legal professional privilege. Client files are held securely and never shared without instruction.
Written Records
Key discussions and decisions are documented in writing. Clients receive copies. Nothing rests on verbal understandings alone.
Fee Certainty
Fees are fixed and agreed in writing before any work begins. There are no surprises. Any change in scope is discussed and agreed before it is actioned.
Law Society Compliance
The firm practises in accordance with the Law Society of Singapore's Professional Conduct Rules and the Legal Profession Act.
Data Protection
Personal data is handled in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (Singapore). Clients may request access to their data at any time.
Client Authority
No significant step is taken without the client's knowledge and agreement. The client is in the position to decide; the firm's role is to advise.
Fees
All fees, stated plainly
Drawing-Room Sitting
A first consultation with a written summary. The natural starting point for most clients.
Family Proceedings
Full representation in divorce, custody, and ancillary matters before the Family Justice Courts.
Considered Mediation
Mediation in family disputes conducted by an SMC-accredited mediator, with care for practical outcomes.
All fees are subject to goods and services tax (GST) at the prevailing Singapore rate. Court filing fees, if applicable, are separate and will be communicated in advance.
Begin at the Beginning
A first sitting is the simplest way to start.
It takes about an hour. It costs SGD 175. You will leave with a written summary and a clear sense of where things stand.
Arrange a Sitting