Litigation & Dispute Resolution
Complex disputes, whatever the subject matter, handled with an eye on practical outcomes rather than litigation for its own sake.
General information on litigation and dispute resolution in Singapore, not legal advice. For advice on your own circumstances, speak with one of our lawyers.
In our words
The firm prides itself on its ability to handle complex disputes, regardless of the subject matter. With over two decades in practice with a primary focus on commercial litigation and corporate work, the firm has built a solid reputation amongst institutional and commercial clients alike.
In today’s robust commercial landscape, we understand that protracted litigation is not always a panacea and we are cognisant of the need to deliver practical solutions tailored to our clients’ concerns and needs. In this regard, we take a measured and strategic approach aimed at achieving favourable outcomes rather than Pyrrhic victories. Drawing upon the collective expertise and experience of our team of lawyers, clients can be assured that the firm is equipped to represent them at all divisions and levels of the Singapore court system.
Fees
Fees depend on the scope of the matter. Ask us for a quote.
| Initial consultationReviewing your documents and explaining where you stand and the options open to you. | On enquiry |
|---|---|
| Letters and negotiationLetters of demand, replies and settlement negotiations before any claim is filed. | On enquiry |
| Court proceedingsFiling or defending a claim and taking it through to trial. | On enquiry |
Where to start
Call or email us with a short outline of your matter, and one of our lawyers will advise on the next step.
Common questions
What is a letter of demand, and do I need one before suing?
It is a formal letter asking the other side to pay or do what they promised by a deadline, usually 7 to 14 days, and saying what will happen if they don't. The law doesn't strictly require one, but the court expects you to offer an amicable resolution before suing, and a letter of demand usually serves as that offer.
Read the full guide →A customer won't pay. What are my options for recovering the debt?
Most businesses start with a letter of demand. If that fails, you can bring a claim in the Small Claims Tribunals (for claims up to S$20,000, or S$30,000 if both sides agree) or in the courts. For an undisputed debt of at least S$15,000, a statutory demand can lead to winding up or bankruptcy. A judgment then has to be enforced if the debtor still doesn't pay.
Read the full guide →What is a statutory demand?
A formal demand for payment of an undisputed debt of at least S$15,000. If the debtor does not pay or otherwise satisfy it within 21 days, the law presumes they cannot pay their debts, and the creditor can apply to wind up the company or make the individual bankrupt. It should not be used for a debt that is genuinely disputed.
Read the full guide →How long do I have to bring a claim?
For most contract and tort claims, including unpaid debts, the time limit under the Limitation Act is 6 years from the date the claim arose, for example the date of the breach or the date the debt fell due. Once a judgment is obtained, it can be enforced for up to 12 years. Some kinds of claim have different limits.
Read the full guide →Which court will hear my claim?
Mostly it depends on the amount. The Small Claims Tribunals hear claims up to S$20,000 (S$30,000 if both sides agree). The Magistrate's Court hears claims up to S$60,000, the District Court claims above S$60,000 up to S$250,000, and the General Division of the High Court claims above S$250,000.
Read the full guide →Can I get judgment without a full trial?
Often, yes. If the defendant does not file a notice of intention to contest within 14 days of being served with the statement of claim, or a defence within 21 days, you can apply for default judgment. If they defend but have no real defence, you can apply for summary judgment, and they must show a triable issue to stop it.
Read the full guide →I have a judgment but still haven't been paid. What now?
You can apply to court for enforcement orders. Under the Rules of Court 2021, one application can ask for several, such as seizure and sale of the debtor's property, or attachment of money owed to the debtor, including money in their bank account. You can also have the debtor examined in court about their assets. A judgment can be enforced for up to 12 years.
Read the full guide →Do I have to try mediation, and who pays the legal costs?
Since April 2022, parties must consider resolving a dispute amicably, and usually make an offer to do so before suing. Refusing without good reason can cost you in legal costs, even if you win. The loser is usually ordered to pay part of the winner's legal costs, but rarely all of them.
Read the full guide →Still have a question? Ask us directly.
Have questions?
Send us a quick note below and let's figure things out together.