Divorce Lawyer in Malaysia

Veeran & Tan is a law firm in Petaling Jaya acting for non-Muslim clients in divorce and family law matters under the Law Reform (Marriage and Divorce) Act 1976. We act in joint petition and single petition divorces, child custody and access, maintenance, and the division of matrimonial assets, for clients across Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.

Our legal fees are fixed and agreed in writing before work begins, so you know the cost of your divorce from the start.

Speak to a Divorce Lawyer

The first consultation is free. We will explain your options, the likely timeline and the fixed fee for your matter.

How Divorce Works in Malaysia

For non-Muslims, divorce is governed by the Law Reform (Marriage and Divorce) Act 1976 and is granted by the High Court. Muslim divorces are dealt with separately by the Syariah Courts. To file, the marriage must generally have lasted at least two years, and the parties must be domiciled or resident in Malaysia.

There are two routes. Which one applies depends on whether you and your spouse agree.

Joint petition vs single petition divorce in Malaysia

Joint petition (mutual divorce)

Both spouses agree to divorce and agree on the terms: custody, access, maintenance and how property is divided. The agreed terms are set out in the petition, and the court can grant the divorce at a single hearing. It is the quickest and least costly route, typically around 3 to 4 months. Read our guide to mutual divorce.

Single petition (contested divorce)

One spouse files without the other’s agreement. The petitioner must prove that the marriage has broken down irretrievably, by showing adultery, behaviour the petitioner cannot reasonably be expected to live with, desertion for at least two years, or separation for at least two years. Before filing, the matter must usually first be referred to a marriage tribunal for conciliation. A contested divorce can take a year or more. Read about the grounds for divorce and the marriage tribunal at JPN.

The Divorce Process, Step by Step

  1. Consultation: we review your situation and advise whether a joint or single petition suits your case.
  2. Agreeing terms: for a joint petition, we draft the terms on custody, maintenance and property. For a single petition, we prepare your case on each disputed issue.
  3. Filing: we prepare and file the petition and supporting affidavit at the High Court.
  4. Hearing: we attend court with you. In a joint petition this is usually a short hearing.
  5. Divorce granted: once the court grants the decree, the marriage is dissolved and you are free to remarry.

For more detail, see how to get a divorce in Malaysia and how long a divorce takes.

Issues We Help You Resolve

  • Child custody: the court’s paramount consideration is the welfare of the child. Custody, care and control, and access can be given to one or both parents.
  • Access and visitation: arrangements for the parent who does not have day-to-day care.
  • Child maintenance: both parents remain responsible for supporting their children after divorce.
  • Spousal maintenance (alimony): the court looks at the means and needs of each spouse.
  • Division of matrimonial assets: based on each spouse’s financial and non-financial contributions, debts, and the needs of the children.
  • Domestic violence: protection orders where safety is at risk.
  • Overseas divorces: registering a foreign divorce order in Malaysia.
  • Annulment, adoption and guardianship.

How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Malaysia?

The main factors are the type of petition and how many issues are disputed. A joint petition, where everything is agreed, costs considerably less than a contested divorce, which may involve several hearings and applications on custody, maintenance or property. We quote a fixed fee once we understand your case, so there are no surprises.

Areas We Serve

We act for clients throughout Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, meeting at our Petaling Jaya office or by video call:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get divorced if my spouse refuses?

Yes. You can file a single petition, provided you can prove the marriage has broken down irretrievably on one of the recognised facts. What to do if your spouse won’t sign the divorce papers.

Can we divorce without going to court?

No. A divorce for non-Muslims must be granted by the High Court, although a joint petition usually needs only one short hearing. More on this.

Do I need a lawyer to file for divorce?

You may act for yourself, but the petition, affidavits and agreed terms on custody and property are hard to change later. Do you need a divorce lawyer?

What documents do I need?

Your marriage certificate, identity card, your children’s birth certificates (if any), and details of property, savings and debts.

More answers in our divorce FAQ and complete guide to divorce in Malaysia.

Arrange a Consultation

WhatsApp us at 014-950 8667 or 016-477 0087, or email veerantanlegal@gmail.com. We will explain your options and give you a fixed fee quotation for your divorce.

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