In a recent case, a Singaporean millionaire has been ordered to pay his former spouse S$5,000 in maintenance. The two individuals had a brief marriage, during which the woman reportedly “brought nothing but grief,” according to the judge who oversaw the case.
Taiwan Dating Agency
The woman, who did not attend the hearing and did not have legal representation, was married to the man for only six months before leaving for Taiwan in May 2020. Despite the man’s attempts to convince her to return, including sending her money and buying her a house in Taiwan, she did not come back until March 2021.
However, their reconciliation was short-lived, as the woman was reportedly difficult to live with during her three-week stay in Singapore. She left for Taiwan again on 12 May 2021, and when the man filed for divorce two years later, she put up a “feeble” contest but failed to file the required affidavit.
In his judgement on Tuesday, High Court judge Choo Han Teck listed the instances when the woman ignored the court’s direction, including her failure to file documents and attend scheduled hearings. He ultimately ordered the man to pay the woman a lump sum of S$5,000 in maintenance, stating that she had “added nothing” to the brief union and that “there is nothing that can be awarded to her.”
The man, who has two adult children, had expressed his longing for a “supportive and peaceful relationship” in his sunset years in his affidavit. However, his recent marriage had caused him “much grief.” In response, Justice Choo offered some life advice, reminding him that “58 is hardly sunset; it is more like mid-afternoon, so there should be no rush in looking for wife No. 3.”
Overall, this case highlights the importance of communication and respect in a marriage, as well as the legal consequences of ignoring court orders and failing to file required documents in a timely manner.
$5,000
While the judge’s comments regarding the woman’s contribution to the marriage may be seen as harsh, it is important to note that the court’s decision was based on the evidence presented and the woman’s failure to comply with court orders. The man, who earned S$66,000 a month and had more than S$10 million in assets, was likely able to afford the S$5,000 maintenance payment. However, the case highlights the potential financial risks of entering into a marriage, even for those who are financially secure.
It is also worth noting that the woman’s absence and lack of legal representation may have contributed to the court’s decision. While the man had a lawyer representing him, the woman did not, which may have put her at a disadvantage in presenting her case. Additionally, her failure to file required documents and attend scheduled hearings likely did not help her case.
Moving forward, it is important for both parties in a marriage to communicate openly and honestly with each other, and to seek legal advice if necessary. In the event of a divorce, it is crucial to comply with court orders and to present all relevant evidence in a timely manner. This can help ensure a fair and equitable outcome for both parties.
In the case of the Singaporean millionaire, the S$5,000 maintenance payment may be a small price to pay for the end of a difficult marriage. However, it serves as a reminder that financial stability does not guarantee happiness or a successful marriage, and that both parties must work together and communicate openly in order to build a strong and lasting union.