The Singaporean's Guide to Hiring a Private Investigator for Marriage and Divorce Issues
- Clarissa
- Aug 19
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 15

When Trust Is Shaken, Facts Matter
Marriage is built on trust, but when that trust is in question, the truth becomes essential. Whether you're sensing something off in your relationship or you're already preparing for a divorce, you may be wondering if it's time to call in a professional. In Singapore, more people are turning to licensed private investigators to help navigate sensitive marital issues with care and legality.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about working with a Private Investigator Singapore residents trust for matrimonial cases. We'll also touch on when it's the right time to take action, what to expect during the process, and how to ensure your investigation stays within legal and ethical limits.
Why People Hire a Private Investigator for Marital Matters in Singapore
It might surprise you to learn that hiring a Singapore Private Investigator for marriage or divorce-related issues is not uncommon. While every relationship is different, the reasons often boil down to one thing: clarity.
Here are a few common situations where individuals or their lawyers may engage a PI:
Verifying suspicious behaviour in a relationship
Gathering evidence to support legal proceedings (e.g., custody or division of assets)
Locating hidden assets or income
Documenting lifestyle patterns that may affect court judgments
Confirming the whereabouts or habits of a co-parent
While many associate PIs with dramatic TV plots, in reality, their work is often methodical, discreet, and grounded in legal compliance.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our future blog: 10 Signs Your Spouse May Be Hiding Something – And How a Private Investigator in Singapore Can Help Legally
What a Private Investigator in Singapore Can Legally Do
It's critical to understand that licensed private investigators in Singapore operate under strict regulations.
Legal PI Activities:
Observing someone in public areas
Documenting behaviour using cameras in public spaces
Conducting background checks via legal databases
Interviewing witnesses or individuals within legal boundaries
Assisting lawyers in gathering evidence for court
What They Cannot Do:
Hack devices, email, or social accounts
Plant listening or tracking devices
Trespass onto private property
Pretend to be law enforcement or impersonate another person
Working with a licensed PI ensures the information gathered can be used in court and won’t put you at legal risk.
Want to understand the process better? Our upcoming article What to Expect When You Hire a Private Investigator in Singapore for Marital Investigations covers it in detail.
The Role of Private Investigators in Divorce Cases
Divorce in Singapore is governed by civil law, and while the reasons for divorce can be varied, having legally obtained evidence can make a significant impact—especially in contested divorces.
Common Areas Where a PI Can Assist:
Evidence of behaviour relevant to court (e.g., neglect, abuse, substance misuse)
Supporting child custody arguments
Tracing hidden finances or undeclared income
Verifying compliance with parenting arrangements
Learn more in our upcoming blog: How a Private Investigator in Singapore Can Help You Legally Gather Evidence Before Divorce
Can Private Investigators Help with Child Custody Cases?
In custody battles, the court’s main priority is the child’s welfare. A Private Investigator in Singapore may help by documenting:
Parental behaviour patterns
Supervision quality during access periods
Compliance with court-ordered arrangements
Their work can help ensure that the child’s best interests are at the forefront.
Coming soon: Can a Private Investigator Help with Child Custody Cases in Singapore? Here's What You Need to Know
Emotional Readiness: Are You Prepared to Involve a PI?
While a PI can help clarify doubts, it’s essential to consider your emotional state and intentions:
Are you ready for what you might learn?
What will you do with the information?
Have you explored counselling or legal advice first?
Sometimes, clarity comes from conversations rather than investigations. But when the stakes are high, a licensed PI may help you find peace of mind.
How to Choose the Right Singapore Private Investigator
Not all PIs are created equal. Here are some questions to ask:
Are they licensed by the PLRD (Police Licensing & Regulatory Department)?
Do they specialise in matrimonial cases?
Can they provide references or case studies?
What methods do they use, and are those methods legal?
Transparency is key. A professional PI should walk you through what they can and cannot do.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Private Investigator in Singapore?
While pricing varies, here’s a general idea:
Initial consultation: Often free or around $100
Surveillance (per hour): $100–$200
Full case package: $1,000–$5,000 depending on scope
Ask for a detailed breakdown before you begin.
Legal & Ethical Considerations
Anything gathered illegally—even if revealing—may be inadmissible in court. Worse, it may backfire legally. Always:
Hire a licensed PI
Clarify your goals
Consult your lawyer before sharing sensitive information
What You Should Remember
Hiring a Private Investigator Singapore couples and legal professionals rely on can offer clarity during some of life’s most difficult decisions. But it’s essential to:
Know your rights
Understand the PI’s limits
Be emotionally and legally prepared
Whether you're thinking about divorce, custody, or simply need peace of mind, a Singapore Private Investigator can provide facts—legally and discreetly.
Where to Find Trusted Private Investigators in Singapore
If you’re ready to engage a professional but unsure where to begin, Singapore is home to several reputable private investigator firms licensed under the Private Security Industry Act. These agencies are experienced in handling a wide range of cases — from corporate investigations to personal matters — while operating within the legal framework of Singapore.
To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of trusted private investigator agencies in Singapore based on credibility, licensing, transparency, and client feedback.
Explore our featured list here:
Agencies | License Number |
L/PS/000962/2024 | |
Whether you're looking for professional surveillance, background checks, or help with a complex case, choosing the right investigator starts with knowing your options. Use our review guide to make an informed decision with confidence.
Stay Informed: Latest News & Insights
Want to dive deeper into the world of private investigation? Whether you’re curious about industry trends, legal updates, or real-life case insights, we’ve got you covered.
Click here to explore the latest news and expert tips on all things private investigation.



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