Singapore

As Advocatus Law enters its 15th year, the firm’s dispute resolution offering remains a core pillar of its growth. The team has a strong track record in litigation, arbitration, ADR, restructuring and insolvency, white-collar crime and contentious matters involving labour, IP, insurance, technology and private clients. At the time of submission, the firm had nine reported High Court, and Court of Appeal decisions in 2022 involving a broad spectrum of issues such as insolvency, fraud, breach of fiduciary duties, professional negligence, employment law, misrepresentation, and crime. The firm is active in regional professional networks, such as the Asia-Pacific Legal Innovation and Technology Association, Alliot Global Alliance and the International Trademark Association. It has been a long-standing member of the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The firm’s managing partner, Christopher Anand Daniel, is a key adviser on the panel of law firms for global private insurance provider Lockton. His team remains on the Singapore Medical Council’s panel of law firms for advice on disciplinary matters.

Daniel leads the disputes team, which consists of four other partners: Harjean Kaur, Ganga Avadiar, Eileen Yeo and Priyalatha Naidu.

A recent notable instruction for the firm was acting for Lim Oon Kuin and others as the applicants in a case to restrain law firm Rajah & Tann Singapore from advising Hin Leong and its liquidators on the basis that there is a risk of breach of confidence. The corporate insolvency of Hin Leong has given rise to numerous court proceedings involving complex legal issues of fraudulent trading, and including a novel issue of whether directors have any residual powers upon the appointment of judicial managers. This case touches on a general principle to be decided for the first time and highlights a question of importance upon which further argument and a decision of a higher tribunal would be to the public advantage: whether one or more parties to a joint retainer can restrain the law firm in the joint retainer from acting against them on the basis that there is a risk of a breach of confidence.

In another highlight, the team successfully defended Strategic Wealth Consultancy against the plaintiff’s claims for fraudulent misrepresentation, negligent misrepresentation, innocent misrepresentation, and unlawful – and lawful – means conspiracy.

Client feedback

“They assisted in communicating with our customers and helped to revert them back to us to negotiate on their payment issue.” – Banking and financial services

“So far, well done on all the services provided to us.” – Commercial and transactions

“They provided good perspective and good advice on the case.” – Commercial and transactions

“What did they do well? Communication with the client, setting client expectations about probable outcomes, informing the client what is within their legal rights, and ensuring proper communication with the other party.” – Commercial and transactions

“Very professional, responsive and methodical in their approach. Made sure to understand our requirements and concerns, address them and incorporate them into the agreement. Also pointed out certain considerations that we had missed out on.” – Commercial and transactions

“Overall experience has been good.” – Energy

“Provides professional and competent strategies in a clear and proper way.” – Family and matrimonial

Christopher Daniel

“Highly knowledgeable, very approachable and able to strategise well.”

Harjean Kaur

“She is prompt in updating us on the status of our case. Gives good advice.”

“Responsible, responsive, affable, approachable and knowledgeable.”

Priyalatha Naidu

“She took time to understand our requirements and gave us the best resolutions.”

“She embodies empathy merged with strong legal knowledge. She is a strong communicator and provides excellent follow-up.”

One of the ‘big four’ law firms in Singapore, Allen & Gledhill has one of the largest teams, with more than 130 lawyers – including more than 50 active partners and senior counsel. The firm is universally praised by peers and clients for having one of the strongest disputes teams in the market, with noted senior practitioners leading the group, including two senior counsels. It has a proven track record of representing sophisticated clients in bet-the-company litigation. This year, the firm continues to dominate the top tiers for all commercial dispute-related tables.

Allen & Gledhill’s specialisms include banking and commercial disputes, international arbitration, insolvency, intellectual property and white-collar crime. The firm also runs a comprehensive cross-border disputes service supported by its regional network.

In addition to its robust coverage, the firm has four relatively new practice groups that were launched with the goal of helping organisations navigate the increasingly complex regulatory environment post-Covid. This included practices for cybersecurity and data protection and private wealth, and the expansion of two existing practices to enhance the scope of service in the areas of employment, health and safety, and ESG and public policy. As struggling businesses were forced into bankruptcy litigation, the Allen & Gledhill team starred in various disputes linked to the high-profile insolvencies of Hin Leong Trading and Agritrade Resources.

Key names in the team include Andrew Yeo for commercial disputes, Chien Mien Ho for construction, Edward Tiong for insolvency, Yee Leong Chong and Dinesh Dhillon for international arbitration, Yong Seng Tay on the employment side, Stanley Lai for commercial litigation and intellectual property, and Jason Chan for white-collar crime and investigations. William Ong co-heads the disputes department and specialises in international arbitration and intellectual property.

In one seminal case the commercial disputes team is defending two individuals as receivers against claims for wrongful appointment and breach of duties by a Japanese healthcare provide, Nishiki Group. The dispute is related to a defaulted loan agreement entered into between Nishiki Group and a private equity firm lender as part of a suite of loan and security documents including debentures and share charges over assets of Nishiki Group. There are generally few recent reported decisions by the Singapore courts on the duties and powers of receivers. The judgment and these proceedings will have an impact on the duties and responsibilities of private receivers in accepting their appointment, including whether they are required to look beyond the terms of the appointment and the security documents to verify the validity of the claim, and the legal effect of a notice of appointment of private receivers and whether receivers are entitled to continue exercising their powers as receivers in circumstances where the receivership is challenged.

In two other highlights for the same client, the team represented Kiri Industries in valuation proceedings pursuant to a buyout order that was made in an action for minority oppression and in a claim for breach of preferred supplier obligation. The former case is the largest valuation dispute relating to a joint venture company that has been heard by the SICC, while the latter dispute and matter on minority oppression have generated 11 reported decisions from the Singapore courts.

In a seminal case on the IP front, the litigation team acted for Tiger Pictures Entertainment to commence an action in the High Court of Singapore against film distributor Encore Films for alleged infringement of copyright of one of the highest-grossing movies in the PRC in 2022. The litigation presents an opportunity for the Singapore courts to consider novel issues in the law on copyright infringement in Singapore including, among other things, the definition of a statutory ‘exclusive licensee’ under the Copyright Act 2021 and the remedies available to an exclusive licensee of copyright. The litigation is also significant as the very first case to be heard on Singapore’s recently introduced ‘fast-track’ for IP litigation known as the ‘Simplified Process for Certain Intellectual Property Claims’. The litigation has already given rise to two reported judgments at the interlocutory stage. The IP team was additionally instructed by General Hotel Management for an appeal to the appellate court in relation to a claim for breach of copyright.

An international tobacco conglomerate enlisted the firm to advise on the Singapore sanctions regime arising from investigations by the US Department of Justice and Office of Foreign Assets Control. In another coup, the white-collar crime team represented two senior member of a large cryptocurrency exchange in ongoing investigations by the Commercial Affairs Department of the Singapore Police Force. The insolvency team continues to act for a group of major banks and non-bank creditors in the massive restructuring of Hin Leong Trading, Ocean Tankers and Xihe Holdings.

Key clients include DBS Bank, Credit Suisse, Noble Group, Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation, Perennial Group, Sentosa Development Corporation, Singapore Tourism Board and SingHealth.

Client feedback

“They are a highly experienced team, with a wide range of skills. All the staff that I meet are highly knowledgeable, with exceptional educational backgrounds and people skills. They are approachable and focused. I recommend the firm for their all-round skill sets.” – Banking and financial services

“Our main relationship partner has excellent team and cost management skills. She provides great insights into the areas where we have sought her advice.” – Banking and financial services

“They advised us very pragmatically and maintained a balanced and fair tone with the client’s lawyers. Their balanced and fair demeanor assisted in moving settlement along, while reducing conflict to the extent possible.” – Banking and financial services

“They provide sound and practical legal advice which comes from a depth of experience in the subject matter.” – Banking and financial services

“They are always excited to delve into areas of the law that have not been examined. Their familiarity with the law always enriches our discussions and gives us interesting insights.” – Bankruptcy

“They are technically solid, well resourced, and provide fantastic client service.” – Bankruptcy

“They are very strategic, with strong business acumen.” – Bankruptcy

“The team provided professional legal analysis for our company, provided reference opinions on dispute resolution strategies and reviewed relevant legal documents. All three of these were well done.”– Commercial and transactions

“They offer sound legal advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Provides sensible and pragmatic solutions for the claim without being overly adversarial.” – Commercial and transactions

“Their advice is generally commercial and practical, which helps in practical implementation within our organisation. Their litigation strategy appears well thought-through and their fees are competitive to the market.” – Commercial and transactions

“Strongly client-oriented, they always present a well-staffed team that provides prompt support and spot-on legal advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Quick turnover of drafts. Able to function relatively independently to negotiate and resolve drafting points with counterparty’s counsel, responsive to client’s calls and text messages. Highlights points needing client’s review and instructions.” – Commercial and transactions

“They provide well-summarised, strategic and balanced views with commercial sense.” – Commercial and transactions

“A&G’s highly responsive and hardworking team confidently and persistently pursued the case from mediation through arbitration, securing a win for us.” – Commercial arbitration

“A&G was very well prepared for the case and have always been very reassuring throughout the whole process.” – Construction

“They have big-picture thinking with their commercial advice. They have breadth of practice and are well versed in the law.” – Construction

“Provide advisory and strategy for positioning our case in the best possible way.” – Construction

“Lawyers give concise advice.” – Family and matrimonial

“Strong processes, clear communication and they care about the client.” – Government and regulatory

“Providing practical, sound legal advice in a responsive manner.” – Insurance

“Efficient, conscientious and professional.”– Intellectual property

“They take their work seriously, even for small clients like us.” – Intellectual property

“Great communications skills; superb case management skills, especially during the pandemic; ability to quickly grasp foreign law concepts.” – International arbitration

“They understood very well what the client was looking for. The advice was extremely helpful and spot-on.” – International arbitration

“We appreciated their professional legal advice and performance, good teamwork, language skills in both Chinese and English, and their strong communication skills.” – International arbitration

“Offered timely advice and thoroughly met the business’s needs.” – Labour and employment

“Very good at their line of work.” – Labour and employment

“Effective settlement of dispute.” – Real estate

“Good technical skills. Provides informed commercial views.” – Real estate

“It is the leading corporate law firm in Singapore. Also, it has a strong shipping and dispute resolution and arbitration practice.” – Shipping

“The lawyers are highly experienced in corporate insolvency, give sound legal advice and, more importantly, good commercial advice in resolving disputes. They are reliable and prompt, and the quality of work is impeccable.” – Shipping

“Timely and responsive turnaround.” – Shipping

“A&G is extremely responsive and is able to provide commercially driven practical advice.” – Shipping

“Strong on litigation disputes and advising litigation proceedings in PRC maritime court.” – Shipping

“They are good at strategic planning and at handling cases. They are able to understand our needs and customise practicable solutions. They are super-fast in response with excellent services by taking note of a client’s interest. They are able to appreciate and understand our corporate culture.” – Shipping

“Strong legal analysis and litigation strategy.” – Trade and customs

“Very professional. Technically very sound. Fantastic client service” – Trade and customs

“Communicate with clients effectively and in a timely manner.” – Trusts and estates

“They cover other possible angles that the court may apply to ensure that our interests are not being compromised.” – Trusts and estates

“Good with investigations and commerciality. They have ability to have robust conversations while still delivering results.” – White-collar crime

Dinesh Dhillon

“Sharp oral advocacy, very well prepared and responsive to the judges. Calm, composed, and courteous at all times. Actively manages the client and gives them informed, strategic advice.”

“Dinesh is a brilliant lawyer, always on top of the facts and leads his team with a clear vision of the case. He has a strong commercial awareness and thinks creatively and out of the box to deliver a client’s commercial goal.”

Eng Cher Goh

“We appreciate her transparency and wealth of knowledge – and that she doesn’t speak to me like an idiot.”

Sathia Jagateesan

“Very professional with deep expertise in building construction matters”

Kelvin Kek

“Very prompt replies from Kelvin and he is very familiar and knowledgeable. Both Kelvin and his associate are very well prepared for the case.”

“Persuasive and effective business-focused solutions.”

Sanjiv Kumar

“We appreciate his commerciality, communication, robustness and delivery of results.”

May Ling Lee

“Great at listening and showing empathy while giving clear assessment of issues and risks. She always thinks the issue and next steps through.”

Yi-Ming Leong

“She understands our feedback and information easily, even though she is not in our field.”

Vincent Leow

“Knowledgeable. Very strategic and straight to point.”

“He is always very detailed, strategic and provides good business sense.”

Daniel Liang

“Deep knowledge of the specialist law on shipping and commodities. Responsive, thorough and committed.”

Mark Lim

“Proactive and communicates well.”

Bernice Loo

“Strong interpersonal skills and legal knowledge.”

Melissa Mak

“Smart, quick on the uptake, easy to work with.”

“Attentive, efficient, prompt. Writes well, good memory of past events and legal arguments, and excellent management of documents. Listens to client’s thoughts and suggestions.”

William Ong

“Good communication skills with foreign clients. Knows how to explain complex legal issues with simple and human language.”

“His advice is clear and sound, and he is very helpful and accessible.”

Shaun See Tow

“He highlights the areas of the draft agreement where client’s instructions are needed. Able to function relatively independently to negotiate and resolve drafting points with counterparty’s counsel. He is willing and able to push to achieve the client’s position in the draft agreement and he is responsive.”

Ramesh Selvaraj

“Clear and simple advocacy skills; ability to assist client in short timeframe and responsiveness; great communication skills; ability to communicate complex concepts in simple terms.”

“Gives technical advice but commerciality is second to none. He understands the big picture and prioritises it.”

Corina Song

“Keeps the client well updated and takes the extra steps to get things going. Thinks way ahead.”

Xeauwei Tan

“Xeauwei is an intellectual powerhouse who has consistently provided very commercial-minded advice. Xeauwei is also conscious as to costs to clients and efficiently manages resources for client matters.”

“She is responsive and provides sound and practical advice.”

Kai Liang Tan

“Kai Liang’s advice is not only legally nuanced but also practical and strategic; he is always taking into consideration the commercial perspective of the client. He has never failed to provide us with solutions that achieve a desirable outcome, even for the most complex of issues. I would highly recommend him to anyone who requires support for complex commercial litigation.”

Jo Tay

“Jo is able to handle complex and sophisticated matters. She is confident in arguing her case in front of the judges and has an established team of insolvency practitioners to support her.”

“On-the-mark advice and fast turnaround.”

Yong Seng Tay

“Dynamic. Never stops thinking about the challenges at hand, and is incisive in his direction. He is also extremely personable and, having seen him in court, a very powerful advocate – using a wide range of interpersonal skills to manage the court. I cannot recommend him highly enough.”

“Extremely and consistently responsive, he adopts a practical mindset and puts himself in the client’s shoes, which builds trust with us. He is also flexible on fees, which gives him a competitive edge against other law firms.”

Hsu Hsien Tham

“His approach is a nice balance of pragmatism and grounded in firm legal principles. He doesn’t waiver from the legal principles just to meet the client’s requests, and yet he proposes other viable solutions. He also has a very fair and reasonable demeanor – this helps in negotiations and when presenting a solution to the client’s stakeholders.”

Edward Tiong

“Very client-centric and available. Pleasant disposition and eagerness to solve clients’ problems.”

“Very personable, very considerate, capable, technically sound, able to handle the most difficult clients.”

“Fantastic client network, super-considerate and able to handle high stress. Technically proficient and a problem solver.”

Erik Widjaja

“Erik was patient when taking client’s instructions and was able to provide prompt and professional feedback during discussions for our approach on the claim.”

“Erik has a sound understanding of both the legal aspects and the industry. This allows him to provide excellent and pragmatic advice.”

“Good coordination with PRC law firm which conducted the maritime court proceeding. Strong communication and an in-depth understanding of the litigation case.”

“Erik understands client’s needs, including corporate culture and industry practice. He knows the law well and has excellent strategic planning. He speaks Chinese like a local and communicates with Chinese clients smoothly. He is highly responsive and on standby 24/7. Friendly billing.”

“He issues legal opinions and provides strategic reference opinions.”

Pei Ting Wong

“Confident and hardworking, adept at quickly grasping issues at hand. Maintains decisiveness and composure at all times.”

Daryl Xu

“Patient and listens attentively to the client.”

Boon Kiat Yeo

“His advice is very clear and he tackles different business considerations and business needs.”

Amica Law is the largest boutique intellectual property firm in Singapore and is known for the breadth of its contentious local and international IP expertise. Its leadership are former Allen & Gledhill directors. With clients such as Starbucks, Amazon.com and Philip Morris, the firm is no stranger to high-end, complex IP work. In addition to its strengths in contentious portfolio and enforcement, in recent years the team has grown its focus and activities in the healthcare and new web technologies sectors.

The go-to partners for IP dispute resolution are directors Jason Chan, Melvin Pang and Aaron Thng.

In one highlight, prior to the client’s highly publicised name change, the Amica team had successfully represented Twitter in an opposition against VV Technology’s application for a bird-form trademark.

The dispute resolution offering at Aquinas Law Alliance covers the full spectrum of contentious commercial work, such as contractual and commercial disputes, joint venture disputes, investment fraud, partnership and shareholder disputes, and personal and corporate insolvency. Its lawyers have acted at all levels of the courts in Singapore and in other jurisdictions, also handling arbitrations around the globe in a variety of international forums. The team has seen its cross-border mandates increase over the past year. The firm is part of the Asean Legal Alliance and the Warwick Legal Network.

The key partners leading the disputes team are partners Cephas Yee and Mark Cham Shan Jie. Yee specialises in joint venture and investment-related disputes. Arbitration specialist Steve Ngo is another name to note.

The team represented a Chinese national against a Singapore company for claims of negligent and fraudulent misrepresentation and for damages arising from the acquisition of a listed Australian company vide a scheme of arrangement.

Client feedback

“The team provides clear, to the point advice, regular updates and the firm is cost-effective.” – Commercial arbitration

Cephas Yee

“He gives short, to the point advice that is clearly articulated.”

“Cephas is a top-notch commercial disputes lawyer who is very user-friendly and practical. He seeks to solve issues and resolve disputes in the most practicable and cost-efficient manner.”

The dispute resolution offering at Ascendant Legal was bolstered last year with the onboarding of influential insolvency partner Meiyen Tan from another domestic firm. The disputes team is now led by veteran lawyers with decades of experience in litigation, arbitration and mediation. It represents both domestic and international clients, notably in the financial institutions, shipping, commodities, energy, and technology sectors. Ascendant has been in a formal law alliance with global firm Norton Rose Fulbright since 2018, a partnership that has allowed the firm to offer clients cross-border and holistic coverage in contentious regional and global matters. The key figures are firm managing director and head of disputes Kei-Jin Chew and Tan, head of insolvency.

The Singapore arm of BP has enlisted the team for its defence in multiple suits arising from the Hin Leong Trading insolvency.

Client feedback

“Excellent client management and solutions.” – Banking and financial services

“Very meticulous and detailed execution of all work processes.” – Banking and financial services

“NRF Ascendant, being an international law firm with more than 50 offices worldwide, provides a one-stop service, which many other local Singapore law firms are unable to provide. Through Ascendant, they have the ability to represent us in the Singapore courts, so we get the best of both worlds. Their advice and representation are of the best quality. Their service is attentive, prompt and reasonably priced, especially for an international law firm. They have a large team and can take on large matters on an urgent basis.” – Bankruptcy

“NRF Ascendant is one of the few international law firms in Singapore that has seamless international and local representations. Meiyen Tan is the only practice head for restructuring and insolvency who covers both the international and Singapore pieces, which makes it very convenient for my clients and me. Needless to say, their work is of an extremely high standard, comparable to other magic circle firms.” – Bankruptcy

“We appreciate their legal strategy and practical advice on the proceedings.” – Bankruptcy

“The team is good at understanding cross-border issues with respect to complex restructuring and insolvency issues. Mei Yen is great at advocating for the client and is always prepared.” – Bankruptcy

“With good relationships with external parties, the firm has strong legal insolvency and bankruptcy and dispute expertise.” – Bankruptcy

“They offer quality advice and are very responsive. They managed the dispute well and liaised with counsel from other jurisdictions flawlessly.” – Commercial and transactions

“Value for money, responsive. Provides advice and explanations that are accessible to non-legal practitioners.” – Commercial and transactions

“Ascendant has been very good at understanding the pain points of the in-house counsel and the companies and gives advice in a pragmatic way.” – Labour and employment

“Very responsive, documentation is excellent and the lawyers have a solid grasp of legal and commercial issues.” – Securities

“Very thorough, with detailed and organised advice and guidance on all related legal matters.” – Shipping

“The team had a deep appreciation and understanding of our company’s business, and the commercial risks and considerations that needed to be managed in preparing our case for trial.” – Shipping

“Excellent outreach to clients.” – Shipping

Jeremiah Chew

“Responsive, professional and business-sensitive.”

Kei-Jin Chew

“He has in-depth legal knowledge and is very reassuring from a client perspective.”

“He is a very experienced and careful counsel.”

“He is very experienced and picks things up quickly, is a seasoned and eloquent litigator, has a calm demeanor, and is great with managing clients' expectations and down to earth.”

Edgar Chin

“Edgar is very accommodating of the client’s needs and requirements, and is highly responsive to queries.”

“Comprehensive and timely communications, customer-oriented, knowledgeable and transparent.”

“Responsive, reliable, very competent and proactive.”

“He has a deep appreciation of our business and an ability to manage our commercial risks and concerns.”

“Experienced, innovative. He reaches out to clients and understands the market.”

Samantha Ch’ng

“She always listens to my concerns and enquiries, and gives goods suggestions or options in return.”

Meiyen Tan

“She has great client management, is proactive in case management, adapts quickly according to client’s needs, and is result-focused, yet practical on steps.”

“Great advocacy. She is able to ‘read the room’ during hearings. Understands cross-border disputes, and how restructuring and insolvency proceedings work in Singapore. Great at managing difficult clients. Very efficient and organised. Communicates clearly.”

“Highly knowledgeable, respected and accessible. Manages her team well.”

“Great client management. Out-of-the-box solutions. Timely and responsive.”

“Meiyen and I have worked on many matters over the 20 years that I have known her. She has always been extremely responsive. Her work is meticulous, precise and of the highest quality. Her team is very well trained by her, and they also possess the same professional attitude and skill set. She is a strategist and applies her deep knowledge of the law to provide very practical and commercial solutions. When I engage her, I know I am in safe hands and will receive the best outcome of any given situation.”

“Meiyen is exceptional. She is what I consider to be an all-rounder. She is the combination of an excellent advocate and a savvy perceptive negotiator. I engage her because she always delivers the best results for my clients.”

“We know Meiyen from her previous firms. Meiyen has good technical knowledge. She has experience in restructuring and schemes. She is commercial and practical.” – Bankruptcy

Audent Chambers is led by the well-respected senior counsel Harpreet Singh, who set up the firm with disputes specialist Jordan Tan in 2020. It is an advocates-only firm that focuses on high-quality strategic advice and advocacy to clients, frequently working alongside solicitors from the top domestic and international firms in Singapore and abroad. The team is well versed in high stakes, complex disputes that span areas such as banking and finance, insolvency, corporate disputes, fraud and misrepresentation, employment, injunctions and asset preservation, domestic and international arbitration, public law, and criminal law and procedure. They regularly appear before all levels of the Singapore Supreme Court and before the various international arbitral tribunals.

Co-managing partners Singh and Tan are the main contacts. Both were with Clifford Chance prior to the establishment of Audent.

The team is acting as instructed counsel for BP Singapore in multiple multi-million dollar claims by various international banks against the client involving transactions with former oil trading giant, Hin Leong Trading. These suits involve important questions of law relating to the role of letters of credit in the sale and purchase of goods, and the potential claims available to the issuing banks against the beneficiaries of letters of credits.

Golden Hill Capital and two individuals enlisted Singh, Tan and counsel Victor Leong for two different sets of proceedings concerning a judicial management and a civil claim for misrepresentation, breach of duties and fraud. The proceedings relating to the judicial management involved a novel point of law regarding circumstances when a judicial manager can be said to have acted in an unfairly prejudicial manner against a shareholder.

Recent clients include Credit Suisse, Milaha Explorer and True Group Singapore.

Client feedback

“Timely and accurate advice.” – Labour and employment

Jordan Tan

“Quick and incisive.”

Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow excels in the contentious IP and employment spaces, with solid experience in a range of commercial disputes. The firm leverages its extensive global network of 74 offices and suits its characterisation as an international firm with deep local roots. Regional head of dispute resolution Nandakumar Ponniya leads the team that also consists of key principals employment specialist Celeste Ang and IP specialist Andy Leck.

A recent highlight saw the team acting for JTrust Asia in a $200 million claim for claim for tort of deceit and unlawful means conspiracy relating to its investments in Group Lease Public Company. In another highlight, iVenture Card instructed the firm for its multi-million-dollar High Court legal proceedings for breach of contract, inducement of breach of contract, conspiracy to injure and breach of confidence.

Client feedback

“They did well in defending our interest from the objection filed by one dissenting creditor at the SICC.” – Bankruptcy

“They managed to argue and articulate our client’s position before the SICC Judge.” – Bankruptcy

“Prompt and clear updates of the litigation progress, open communications and discussions with client group.” – Commercial arbitration

“Very engaging and attentive to the matter. They provide strategic advice.” – Construction

“Partners are quick in appreciating the commercial interests at play and provide thorough legal analysis.” – Construction

“Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow is very responsive, provides very thorough, considered and thoughtful advice and presents its work product in a client-friendly manner.” – Government and regulatory

“Client-friendly advice, concise and cost-efficient.” – Government and regulatory

“My overall impression of the firm is exceptionally positive. Throughout my experience working with them, I have been consistently impressed by their professionalism, expertise, and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results. The firm’s legal practitioners possess a profound understanding of their fields, and their insightful advice and strategic guidance have proven invaluable. One of the most remarkable aspects of their service is the way they crafted a perfect legal strategy, tailor made to our specific needs. Their ability to understand our unique circumstances and design a strategy that aligns perfectly with our goals has been nothing short of impressive. This stands in stark contrast to the firm we previously worked with, which failed to appreciate our needs and roundly provided run-of-the-mill legal advice that failed to achieve our objectives. Their attention to detail, responsiveness, and clear communication have fostered a strong attorney-client relationship built on trust and transparency. It is evident that Baker McKenzie holds itself to the highest ethical standards, and their dedication to achieving favorable outcomes for their clients shines through in every interaction.” – Intellectual property

“Strong at the pleadings, case management and hearings.” – International arbitration

“When it comes to litigation, they do everything well. They have an excellent grasp of tech and commercial issues. They gave very sage advice and were excellent in negotiations.” – Labour and employment

Emmanuel Chua

“He can handle pressure from the opponent’s counsel and can effectively convince the judges in our client’s favour.”

“Emmanuel is highly responsive, thorough and communicates effectively and clearly. He manages expectations well, and really takes the time and effort to understand the client’s core businesses and considerations, and tailors his work product to what the client is expecting. He is a stellar professional who always ensures that the work product is value-for-money without compromising on quality. His problem-solving solutions are always practical, commercial and feasible.”

“Calm and cool in confronting the counterparty in court.”

Daniel Ho

“His engineering background is very helpful.”

Pradeep Nair

“He is very responsive and has a superb understanding of business aspects.”

Lim Ren Jun

“Ren Jun’s dedication to our matter has been exemplary, consistently going above and beyond to ensure our needs are met. Ren Jun’s in-depth knowledge of his practice area has been evident in his strategic approach, providing us with valuable insights and solutions to navigate complex legal challenges. His excellent communication skills have fostered a strong attorney-client relationship, keeping us well informed at every step of the process. Most notably, Ren Jun’s ability to lead his team in crafting legal strategies that align perfectly with our objectives has been instrumental in achieving successful outcomes. He is a true asset to our legal representation, and I have complete confidence in his abilities.”

Tjen Wee Wong

“Everything is excellent. I was very impressed by his and his team’s work.”

“He is attentive and grasps key issues fast and clearly. He manages differing client views well and engages discussions in an open and productive manner.”

“Very quick with on-point legal advice.”

Bih Li & Lee was founded in 1992 by a team of senior practitioners from Allen & Gledhill. Founder Justice Woo Bih Li left the firm to join the Supreme Court and is now a judge of the appellate division – and was appointed president of the appellate division of the High Court in late 2022. The dispute resolution team deftly handles matters across the insolvency, arbitration, private client, IP, TMT, and family and matrimonial spaces. The key partners are Darrell Low, Liansheng Wang and Aileen Chua.

In a recent highlight, the team represented Netlink Management in a claim for damage to property over the course of works done. In another, the team acted for an international commodities fund in relation to its commercial dispute on unpaid loans. A collective rights organisation for music licensing in Singapore has instructed the firm for its copyright infringement claim against one of the largest local internet and cable service providers.

Client feedback

“Efficient and reliable.” – Commercial and transactions

“They provide reliable legal services.” – Commercial and transactions

“They give ideal advice.” – Government and regulatory

“They provide sound legal advice with business practicalities. They are strong, reliable and resourceful in negotiations, cost-effective, and they build personal relationships.” – Intellectual property

“Strong at providing tailored services for contentious matters to suit the needs of clients.” – Intellectual property

Aileen Chua

“Responsive, good legal advice and timely.”

“Responsive and has a clear understanding of legal issues – is able to provide drafts that take into account a client’s inputs and concerns.”

Darrell Low

“Responsive, reliable, and a very safe pair of hands. Knowledgeable and thorough.”

“Good advocacy.”

“Responsible and reliable.”

“Able to discuss work after his office hours.”

Bird & Bird ATMD is particularly renowned for its intellectual property, technology, and labour and employment disputes capabilities. The firm is also active in commercial litigation and international arbitration. Clients in the aviation, construction, energy, financial services, chemicals, hospitality, telecommunications and energy industries regularly seek the firm’s dispute resolution service. The team has seen significant growth with disputes and arbitration work relating to Korea, Indonesia and India. The team is stable and enjoying an increasing volume of complex contentious mandates in areas distinct from its traditional strengths. In recent years, the team’s footprint in the aviation, construction, energy and hospitality sectors has expanded.

Key leaders of the team include Jonathan Choo, who is skilled in commercial disputes and international arbitration, labour specialist Seow Hui Goh and consultant Alban Kang, who is a leading IP specialist in the market. Contentious regulatory partner Lijun Chui, commercial litigator Shaun Lee, IP partners Anan Sivananthan and Pin-Ping Oh and construction and international arbitration expert Akshay Kishore are other names to note.

In a seminal case that was the first GI dispute to be heard and decided upon by the Singapore High Court and Singapore Court of Appeal, the firm successfully represented the Prosecco wine consortium to defend an opposition to the registration of “prosecco” as a geographical indication filed by Australian Grape and Wine Incorporated, and for appeals from the Registry decision to the higher local courts. The final judgment was delivered in favour of the client.

Client feedback

“Diligent, timely and responsive.” – Commercial and transactions

“Good at identifying key issues.” – Commercial arbitration

“They consolidate the points of legal argument to a comprehensible and understandable format that those outside the legal domain can understand.” – Construction

“The team consisting of Jonathan Choo, Oh Pin-Ping and Shaun Lee are clever, responsive and flexible. It has been easy to communicate and work with them.” – Intellectual property

“Very helpful advice on a fixed-fee basis.” – Intellectual property

“Provision of clear, concise advice as to rights and risks.” – Technology and telecommunications

Shaun Lee

“Very good communicator and very good at distilling the points of an argument.”

Pin-Ping Oh

“Responsive, details-oriented and knowledgeable about intellectual property.”

Lijun Chui

“Good knowledge of the issues and able to see the broad picture as well as detailed issues.”

“Clear and concise advice, provided in a manner that is easy even for non-lawyers to understand.”

Brendan Loy

“Very responsive, clear communications.”

Sandra Seah

“Professional and competent.”

Restructuring and insolvency boutique firm BlackOak is focused solely on distressed and special situations matters, acting exclusively for insolvency professionals, debtors, creditors and funds. It is widely respected in the market among peers and clients. Its independent status allows the firm to remain untethered to particular clients and the big four full-service firms routinely refer work to it. The team is best known for its corporate restructuring and insolvency practice and has acted on some landmark cases. The firm is especially active in the financial services, energy and shipping areas, and is often instructed in cross-border restructurings. The team has a niche speciality in bond restructurings and it is a market pioneer on third-party litigation funding in insolvency situations. The firm also recently expanded its capabilities in India, Indonesia and Hong Kong, and has an impressive roster of cross-border mandates under its belt. Demonstrating the firm’s penchant for shaping R&I law, BlackOak successfully established the untested position in Singapore that a director’s resignation can be withdrawn via conduct of the board and shareholders under Sections 399 and 409A of the Companies Act.

Directors Ashok Kumar and Darius Tay and associate director Derrick Teo are key figures in the firm’s insolvency practice.

The team acted for SPGK in resisting the recognition of liquidation proceedings of Ascentra Holdings under the UNCITRAL Model Law as adopted in Singapore.

Client feedback

“They do everything well. A real powerhouse of the Singapore bar, they are helpful, commercial, sophisticated advisers you need on your side in Singapore.” – Banking and financial services

“Excellent knowledge of local insolvency laws and best practice.” – Bankruptcy

“Responsive, pragmatic, client-focused and very easy to use. A real powerhouse of a firm. They have developed in the years they have been doing this.” – Bankruptcy

“Approachable, friendly, knowledgeable. Always practical with their advice.” – Bankruptcy

“Very commercial and good balance between partner and associate time.” – Commercial and transactions

Ashok Kumar

“He is friendly, approachable, knowledgeable, and practical.”

“He is very commercial and relies on his team in an appropriate manner.”

Darius Tay

“Excellent legal knowledge and client service.”

“Intellectual, commercial and enthusiastic at all times. It is a real pleasure to work with Darius, even on the most difficult of matters.”

Derrick Teo

“Always available to assist. Excellent, pragmatic advice delivered commercially and with a good manner.”

Blackstone & Gold has built up a strong reputation in the market for commodities-related international disputes. These contentious matters include disputes relating to trade, financing, shareholders, fraud, crypto, security enforcement, claims between shipowners and charterers, and trade credit insurance claims. The firm occupies a unique niche where it leverages litigation and arbitration mandates within a larger enforcement or litigation exercise, leading teams of lawyers across the globe under compressed timelines. It focuses on highly specialised and complex work from lenders, international traders and insurers on mandates that span continents, including locations such as London, the UAE, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Singapore-seated arbitrations. The team’s portfolio of work covers predominantly international disputes in the oil and gas, metals and minerals business.

Managing director Baldev Bhinder and associate directors Raman Kaur and V Kumar Sharma are the key contacts.

A recent highlight saw the team acting for QBE in two ongoing Singapore litigations considering the novel question of whether circular, financing or fictitious trades are covered under a trade credit insurance policy. The cases are likely to be test cases on the subject in Singapore and they are being watched by the insurance market.

Client feedback

“Provided clear, actionable advice with commercial-minded opinion on likelihood of success. They have an ability to recover debt and intangibles such as effect on brand and company reputation.” – Commercial and transactions

“Baldev Bhinder is exceptional. He understands the practicalities of international trade, is well connected in the commodities market, knows the arbitration process inside and out, instinctively knows where the pressure points are and can map out an effective strategy from the get-go.” – Commercial and transactions

“They provide time and dedicated resources to understand your situation, your views and explain the legal implications of various options that may be available to us.” – Commercial and transactions

“They are true commodities experts. They provide clear legal advice and work exceptionally hard for their clients at reasonable rates.” – Commercial arbitration

“We have been working with Baldev Bhinder and Raman Kaur for some time and they have proved to be worthy allies and trusted comrades for us. Baldev brings to the table his expertise in understanding the underlying trade, technical knowledge, experience in claims and arbitrations. Raman’s knowledge, professionalism, service level and attention to detail stands out.” – Commercial arbitration

“Blackstone & Gold provides a bespoke legal service with a personal touch that some of the bigger law firms can’t match or take for granted.” – Insurance

“Blackstone & Gold made a settlement in a way that we were satisfied with. During the arbitration proceedings, they contacted us promptly and closely and worked hard to resolve the dispute.” – International arbitration

“Timely and clear advice. Thorough job.” – Trade and customs

Baldev Bhinder

“Baldev Bhinder is an exceptional lawyer. He listens to understand deeply before providing professional and thoughtful advice. He makes the effort to create a personal connection with clients that is appreciated from a social standpoint but also is the likely reason for his nuanced insights from knowing his customer.”

“Baldev Bhinder is a true expert in commodities trading legal issues. He has a wealth of experience and is a hardworking and creative lawyer.”

“Baldev always treats each and every case personally and puts in his full efforts and time to provide best legal solutions.”

“Baldev Bhinder is well known in the market for his commodities work and network. His understanding of international trade is second to none and he brings that expertise to any claim or arbitration.”

“Ability to think and communicate clearly. Industry and legal knowledge and experience is very useful.”

“Very approachable and knowledgeable.”

Full-service firm BR Law Corporation has its roots in litigation, stretching back for more than 30 years. The firm started out as Bernard and Rada Law Corporation and rebranded in 2018. Each litigation partner has at least 26 years’ experience across various commercial dispute areas. These include contract, corporate governance, property, defamation, employment and breach of trust disputes, among others. Its contentious family and matrimonial practice has been very active in the past year. The team is well versed in domestic and international arbitration matters, advising clients on and crafting dispute resolution clauses, conducting proceedings before arbitral tribunals and enforcing and collecting arbitral awards.

Managing director Bernard Doray and senior director Soon Yien Foo lead the disputes group at the firm. Other key contacts include senior consultant S Radakrishnan and directors Sivakumar Ponnampalam and Daniel Loh.

In a recent highlight, the team acted for the plaintiff liquidator of BIT Baltic Investment & Trading in an action against a former director of the company for breach of his director’s duties in relation to unfair preference payments made by the company to related companies. The Court of Appeal’s decision is significant as it expounds on the minimum objective standard of care imposed on all directors, whether executive or non-executive.

Client feedback

“Professional advisers and qualified lawyers with a range of industrial expertise.” – Commercial and transactions

“Settled the case professionally, calmly and reasonably in a way that that met my requirements.” – Family and matrimonial

Soon Yien Foo

“Well versed and knowledgeable in her field.”

Daniel Loh

“Daniel has been calm and professional. He is well versed in his field of expertise. He also gave me good advice and guidance.”

S Radakrishnan

“He has years of experiences in legal, commercial and criminal areas, which help me from my personal to company level.”

Braddell Brothers is an independent dispute resolution boutique founded in 1883. It is among the oldest law firms in Singapore and is known for its commercial disputes and civil and international arbitration work, with particular sector strengths in energy and technology and telecommunications. Apart from commercial litigation and arbitration, the team regularly assists clients on injunctions, interim and pre-emptive relief, and in medical negligence and misconduct matters. The firm is currently handling litigation and arbitration disputes with a cumulative value of nearly $5 billion. The three partners, at the time of submission, had seven ongoing arbitrator appointments as the sole arbitrator or presiding arbitrator in disputes seated in Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Cambodia and Vietnam. The firm works closely with international firms and is active in locations including New York, Stockholm, Chicago, Hong Kong and Jakarta. It is also a member of the independent law firm network, Legalink, and occasionally instructs Queen’s Counsel from England to assist with specialist legal opinions or to appear on an ad hoc basis in Singapore courts. Key clients of the firm include Autodesk, BASF, Bein Sports, Ericsson Telecommunications, Garuda, GKE Shanghai, JSC Power Machines, Krafton, Lippo Group and OSO Group.

Managing partner Edmund Kronenburg is frequently seen working on notable arbitration cases and he also sits as an arbitrator. Partners Angelia Thng and Kyle Gabrel Peters are also key contacts for disputes matters. The latter joined from PD Legal in August 2023.

In one case highlight, the team successfully acted for a prominent Italian businessman in an action for conspiracy and breaches of contract against a listed Singapore tech company and its subsidiary, and defended him against counterclaims.

Client feedback

“We previously used another law firm and lost all the way. Then we changed to Braddell Brothers and won all the way.” – International arbitration

Edmund Kronenberg

“He is the leader of the Team.”

“Sharp skills and good knowledge.”

“He is very knowledgeable, always well prepared, and he has a good judgement.”

Established in 1978, Characterist is a Singaporean law firm that is active in civil and commercial disputes. In addition to its expertise in commercial and construction disputes, the firm is also active in insolvency, criminal and insurance litigation. It has an active roster of arbitration matters with international and cross-border elements. The firm appears in the family and matrimonial table this year, having demonstrated its extensive experience in resolving complex family-related disputes involving cross-border assets and real estate, as well as structuring intricate family trusts and businesses.

Managing director Daniel Goh oversees the dispute resolution team with support from directors Dominic Chan and Noel Oehlers, who represent clients in commercial disputes and arbitration. Managing director Lie Chin Chin is responsible for the firm’s contentious family and matrimonial matters.

In a ground-breaking case, the team represented five plaintiffs against the Singapore Government in a highly novel and complex constitutional and judicial review challenge against Vaccine-Differentiated Safe Management Measures and Workforce Vaccination Measures.

Client feedback

“Characterist was able to negotiate/mediate for a satisfactory claim for our costs incurred to renovate the damaged roof caused by the termite infestation.” – Commercial and transactions

“Characterist did a very professional job in helping me by explaining the various options available for me to proceed with the demand of repayment. I was very informed and able to make clear decision based on their advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Very professional, yet personable and relatable in client servicing.” – Commercial and transactions

“Characterist is good at listening to the problem, analysing it, and then recommending an effective solution that is practical and cost-effective. I particularly like how Dominic is always honest and upfront, never over-promising and always delivering.” – Commercial and transactions

“For litigation and dispute resolution work, they have a strong team that can stand toe to toe with the biggest firms in town.” – Commercial and transactions

“Very responsive and insightful.” – Commercial arbitration

“They managed to get us a good deal.” – Construction

“I would say they are good at reading the opponent well, considering the options available to us and devising strategy in timing the action the firm had to take. Characterist offered very sound legal advice and set out clearly the risks with each action the firm considered. Basically, they held my hand throughout.” – Construction

“Familiar with construction law in Singapore’s built environment.” – Construction

“Very competent in the advice they gave.” – Family and matrimonial

“Johnston, who was my lawyer, provided relatable and sound advice. He gave me a wide scope of possibilities and understood what I wanted.” – Family and matrimonial

“1) Shared the detailed process of marriage dissolution during the first meeting, allowing me to understand the whole procedure.

2) The lawyer was patient. He listened to my situation before providing me with the various options for my consideration and allowed me time to make my decision to appoint them to represent me.

3) Very fast turnaround. It only took them one week to finish the paper and submit it. I did hear from my friends that it took them about one month for their lawyers to complete their papers.” – Family and matrimonial

“The firm has assigned to me a very competent lawyer, Johnston Lee, to represent my case. The firm acted upon all matters with precise timing.” – Family and matrimonial

“They provided excellent and consistent communication that gave a helpful overview and legal insights that helped me understand intricacies of the situation/legal challenge. I thought Dominic, the main lawyer assisting me, was very sharp in his analysis and a strong, powerful communicator – a top-notch lawyer. I am impressed by the moral courage displayed by both Daniel Goh, the leader of the firm, and Dominic in taking up this legal challenge. I also appreciate the entire team’s moral support and personal investment in the legal challenge over and above their professional responsibilities. It was personally uplifting and encouraging.” – Government and regulatory

“Good communication and timely responses.” – Government and regulatory

“Able to prepare the claim report in a concise and professional manner.” – Insurance

“Caring and attention to detail.” – Insurance

“They are good at handling legal matters and giving advice and are knowledgeable about what they are doing.” – Insurance

“They explored all the different options available to me and gave me a frank assessment of the commercial and time implications of each course of action. It was apparent they had my interest as their main priority. They also tried to be swift in their work, mindful that they charge based on their time.” – Labour and employment

“Dominic and Chang Jin were very professional and addressed my grievances well. They were also very quick to do their research and send the letter of demand promptly. I believe they were very honest with their billing, and their charges were also very reasonable.” – Product liability and recall

“Prompt response, logical rationalisation.” – Technology and telecommunications

“Detailed and builds relationships with clients.” – Trusts and estates

Dominic Chan

“Patient, clear, honest.”

“I am impressed by his moral courage, moral support and personal investment in the legal challenge over and above his professional responsibilities. It was personally uplifting and encouraging.”

“He communicated in a clear, cogent and direct manner on what each communication meant. He also made me aware of all the different implications of my decisions so that I made them in a fully informed manner.”

“Friendly and approachable. Extremely competent. Puts in his utmost to get the best for his client.”

Daniel Goh

“Attentive. Proactive. Efficient.”

Johnston Lee

“He is very knowledgeable and has a very good personality. He is patient and efficient in his work.”

“Listened to the situation before providing possible solutions. Very fast turnaround and great follow-up. After the proceedings were completed, he called to follow up on my situation and checked to ensure all was good. Helpful and approachable.”

“He is very personable and goes the extra mile to explain in detail to clients about their wills and LPAs.”

“He is able to build relationships with clients quickly and advise with confidence. He is competent in his work and responsible.”

“He was understanding throughout my entire ordeal. He broke things down simply for me and provided different alternatives and choices for me. He also discussed what I could do to ensure that legally I will be protected.”

“Johnston Lee had given me clear and sound advice throughout my case, and I had fully understood the process and procedures.”

Daniel Ng

“Daniel is very confident and knowledgeable and made us feel assured of the outcome of the case.”

“Always put himself in my shoes but with his legal expert’s hat to advise on my best interest – the lowest cost solution but best potential outcomes. Very responsive and professional.”

“Responsive, considered, diligent.”

“Knowledgeable, friendly, good at explaining his work. Able to suggest solutions and workarounds to problems.”

“Daniel listens empathetically and tries his best to understand what we are putting across. He will paraphrase and seek our clarification. Then he will propose solutions and recommend which is best for us in our situation, explaining the complications and implications (if any).”

“From our initial consultation to the resolution of the matter, Daniel's professionalism and expertise were evident at every step. He was able to advise us based on our best interests. His strategic approach, attention to detail, and effective communication ensured that I was well informed and confident in the decisions we made together. His responsiveness to my enquiries and the clarity with which he explained legal nuances were invaluable and greatly appreciated. Thanks to his efforts, the resolution of my legal matter was not only successful but also conducted with the utmost professionalism and integrity.”

Francis Wong

“Approachable and experienced.”

“His handholding. With his input, I am able to make informed decisions.”

“He is prompt and knows the construction industry well.”

Clyde & Co Clasis is best known for its strengths in shipping, projects and construction, and arbitration, with standalone specialist teams in these areas. It remains in the upper echelons for construction, international arbitrational shipping based on market feedback and a demonstration of high-end cross-border cases. The group is experienced at handling disputes across multiple sectors, such as renewables, oil and gas, power and transport. It is particularly experienced working with South Korean contractors on their international ventures and related claims and disputes. The joint law venture ropes in the support of Clyde & Co’s global network of more than 150 specialist construction lawyers from across 50 offices. The lawyers work with clients at every stage of the arbitration process and are adept at conducting large arbitrations in various international forums.

Managing director Prakash Pillai focuses on international arbitration and insolvency, and he leads a well-regarded team that includes construction experts Eugene Tan and Sean Hardy. Marine sector specialists Ik Wei Chong, Leon Alexander and Andrew Bicknell round out the leadership.

In a recent highlight, the firm acted for a Korean contractor joint venture on a dispute relating to the world’s second-tallest building and Southeast Asia’s tallest building, Merdeka PNB 118.

Client feedback

“Strong construction advisory and arbitration.” – Commercial arbitration

“They understand construction processes and address contractual ambiguities, even when they are intertwined with difficult technical concepts.” – Construction

“They provided us professional advice to protect our company’s legal rights and industrial practices and also struck a balance drafting a fair agreement which was accepted by our clients.” – Construction

“Professionalism with regard to legal opinions.” – Government and regulatory

“They have done a good job on almost all of the substantive and procedural points.” – International arbitration

Ik Wei Chong

“Ik Wei has been doing well on all case and client-related matters.”

Sean Hardy

“Industry knowledge, logic, language.”

Kai Yong Tan

“He is superb in corporate law. Always sharing all options and innovative solutions.”

The CMS Holborn Asia disputes team is anchored by an experienced group of leading infrastructure, construction and projects specialists. The firm is particularly known for its sector focus across technology, healthcare, life sciences, media, consumer goods and services and infrastructure. Clients include funders, owners, developers, leading contractors, specialist sub-contractors and consultants from across the industry. The firm keeps busy working on a number of Asia’s most complex and high-profile developments and on numerous major international projects.

Partners Lynette Chew, Kelvin Aw, Adrian Bell and Emma Schaafsma are the key partners for contentious matters.

A recent highlight saw the team represent and secure a comprehensive win for a leading Korean construction and engineering conglomerate in Singapore-seated ICC arbitration proceedings against its subcontractor in relation to disputes arising from the construction of a Jurong Island power plant project.

Client feedback

“Very good teamwork and advocacy.” – Commercial arbitration

“Quality of advice in areas that are technically tricky to navigate.” – Intellectual property

“CMS Partners are involved in the matter from day one and are across the detail and strategy of a case. They are skilled in cross-examination and oral advocacy.” – International arbitration

“They communicate efficiently with all parties involved.” – International arbitration

“Their construction disputes team have been based in Singapore and worked together for many years. They know the Asia market in which they operate, they know Asian clients and they approach matters based on their solid local experience.” – International arbitration

Kelvin Aw

“Great communicator, excellent setting a strategy and fantastic project management.”

“Cultural sensitivity and communication skills. Expertise in multiple jurisdictions.”

“Solid experience which comes through in client meetings, giving them confidence in the advice provided by Kelvin and his team.”

Sheena Jacob

“Ability to explain very technical areas in language and concepts that are easy to take in.”

Asya Jamaludin

“Very calm, cool and collected advocacy. Grace under pressure.”

CNPLaw’s dispute resolution team of nine partners has extensive experience in all aspects of civil litigation and alternative disputes, including arbitration and mediation. The team focuses on corporate and commercial litigation, construction, employment and family-related disputes. It has a solid track record of handling case matters in various industry sectors, including consumer product manufacturing, financial services, real estate, construction and professional regulatory bodies. This year the firm climbs up a notch in the rankings in the commercial and transactions, family and matrimonial and private client tables.

Key partners for commercial disputes include Lisa Theng, Soo Ling See Tow, Ravindran Ramasamy, Subramanian Pillai, Jimmy Yap, Venetia Tan and Edwin Chia. They are all active in a broad range of matters, including shareholder disputes, defamation, international trade, business finance and contractual claims, as well as wills and probate. For family and private wealth matters, partners Huimin Hu and Daniel Koh are the main contacts.

Covenant Chambers’ dispute resolution offering covers a broad range of practice areas, from commercial and corporate and employment to private client and property. Its lawyers have advocated at all levels of the Singaporean court and are experienced in ADR. In 2022, the firm took on 16 pro bono and 14 low bono matters. The firm is proud of its advanced digital automation to provide a combination of technology-driven legal advisory and solutions for its clients.

Managing director Ee Yang Lee and director Ronald Wong are the key contacts. Wong also leads the firm’s TMT practice.

In a first-of-its-kind case in Singapore, the team acted for Kelington Engineering in a dispute that concerned the applicability and relevance of the doctrine of penalty clauses in the context of fixed-term employment contracts.

Client feedback

“Prompt turnaround for work. Advice rendered is useful from a business perspective. Fees are reasonable.” – Intellectual property

Ronald Wong

“Good listener and exhibits suitable client management skills. Well informed on legal developments in tech.”

Established in 2019 by one of the market’s most respected litigators, dispute resolution boutique Davinder Singh Chambers has solidified its premier status in Singapore. The firm remains a fixture in the top tier for general commercial litigation and international arbitration on the back of plaudits from peers and clients. The market agrees: Singh is the go-to man for bet-the-company battles.

With a respected cabal of practitioners, the firm regularly features in complex and high-profile cases before all levels of courts and international tribunals. It covers all aspects of contentious matters including administrative law, insolvency, commercial litigation, employment, private client and white-collar crime. In the firm’s fourth year of practice, 2023, the cumulative value of disputes it handled exceeded $18 billion.

Led Davinder Singh, the team comprises CEO Jaikanth Shankar and directors Sngeeta Rai, Timothy Lin, Navin Thevar, Ruoyu Tan, David Fong and Bryan Wong.

In a high-profile patent case that has run for seven years, Singh helped Singapore-based Ila Technologies to secure a victory against a member of the international De Beers Group in a case relating to the methods used to grow synthetic diamonds. This landmark case, one of the biggest patent battles to date, addressed novel points of patent law.

Client feedback

“Sharp, analytical, ability to nail the pertinent points.” – Banking and financial services

“Strong analysis.” – Banking and financial services

“Strong analysis, strong legal knowledge, strong problem-solving skills. Deep team from the directors to the junior associates.” – Banking and financial services

“Highly experienced, strategic, detail-oriented counsel who consider and prepare for all eventualities and fiercely defends their client’s interests. Their submissions are clear, incisive and hit the right mark for intended coram.” – Commercial and transactions

“See the forest, the surrounding trees, the tree, its branches and its leaves; all within the context of the case.” – Commercial and transactions

“Litigation and litigation strategy.” – Commercial and transactions

“All manner of dispute resolution.” – Commercial arbitration

“Provides legal advice and response with strategic and commercial considerations and approach.” – Commercial arbitration

“Great strategic insight, and incredibly detail-oriented understanding of the facts.” – International arbitration

“Davinder Singh Chambers is an exceptional law firm that stands out in the legal industry. With a steadfast commitment to professionalism, they consistently deliver outstanding services. Their deep expertise in various subject matters is truly impressive, allowing them to provide comprehensive and insightful legal advice. The firm’s well-organised team ensures that every aspect of a case is handled meticulously, leaving no room for error. Their lawyers possess an unparalleled ability to analyse complex legal issues with accuracy and sharpness, enabling them to craft effective strategies that yield favourable outcomes. We can trust Davinder Singh Chambers LLC to navigate the intricacies of the legal landscape with utmost competence and deliver exceptional results.” – Shipping

“Davinder Singh Chambers excels in navigating the complexities of cross-border disputes. Their proficiency in handling disputes involving multiple jurisdictions and diverse legal systems is a testament to their global perspective and in-depth knowledge of international law.” – White-collar crime

David Fong

“Thoughtful, considered and articulate.”

Timothy Lin

“Responsive, hard-working, and detail oriented. A great strategic thinker, who gives candid and practical advice.”

Jaikanth Shankar

“Sharp, analytic, problem solving.”

“Very confident, observant advocate who cuts right to the bone of legal issues in contention. His submissions are highly regarded by the bench and he and his team operate with unsparing efficiency and efficacy.”

“Jaikanth provides strong analysis and very clear problem-solving techniques that help with the case. Good in communication complex legal issues into simple understandable messages.”

“Extremely strategic, client-friendly. Cuts straight to the key issues.”

“Litigation and litigation strategy, client management.”

“Jaikanth demonstrates a deep understanding of the complexities involved in resolving conflicts, providing clients with strategic and insightful guidance throughout the process.”

Davinder Singh

“Best-in-class legal mind, strong and sharp analysis that helped us to build a strong legal case.”

“The brilliant legal mind behind Davinder Singh Chambers. Mr Singh’s professionalism is truly commendable, as he consistently maintains the highest standards of conduct and ethics in his practice. His unwavering attention to detail is remarkable, ensuring that no aspect of a case goes unnoticed or unaddressed. What truly sets Mr Singh apart is his remarkable ability to break down sophisticated legal matters into understandable terms. He has a unique talent for simplifying complex concepts, making it easier for clients to grasp and participate in the legal process. Mr Singh’s dedication to providing tailored recommendations showcases his commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients. Moreover, his extensive knowledge in the legal sphere is truly invaluable, instilling confidence and trust in his clients, who can rely on his expertise to navigate the complexities of their cases. Mr Singh’s exceptional qualities make him an outstanding legal professional, and clients are fortunate to have his guidance and support.”

“In addition to being an extremely sharp litigation lawyer, Davinder cares for his clients and is always thinking several steps ahead.”

Dentons Rodyk & Davidson operates under a verein structure that enables it to support cross-border dispute management and resolution. The disputes team is sizeable, with more than 75 lawyers. It is active in international arbitration and in the construction, infrastructure and energy, medical, high-net-worth individuals and financial sectors.

The practice’s portfolio of work includes cross-border enforcement litigation, joint venture disputes having multiple touchpoints around the globe, trust and equity, economic torts, corporate and shareholder disputes, fiduciary obligations, trade finance, admiralty, construction, high-profile defamation cases, complex cases in claims defence, medical malpractice litigation, defence of medical practitioners in professional misconduct, defence of professionals in professional negligence claims, and white-collar criminal defence representation cases involving corruption and securities offences for domestic and international clients.

The firm takes a multi-faceted approach to manage its clients’ domestic and international disputes by utilising Dentons’ global platform. The Dentons ASEAN network is the first global pan-ASEAN law firm. The network comprises established firms in Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore and, most recently, the Philippines. For the Philippines, Dentons formalised a combination with PSJ Law in early 2024. There are plans to expand into Thailand and other jurisdictions in the near future.

The well-rounded disputes team includes construction specialists Kia Jeng Koh and Kirindeep Singh, commercial litigation heads Mark Seah and Siang Pheng Lek, international arbitration specialists Lawrence Teh and Herman Jeremiah, insolvency veteran Ajinderpal Singh, and IP expert Gilbert Leong.

Key clients include Bank of China, China Railway Construction Corporation, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Pacific Radiance, REC Solar and State Bank of India.

For commercial disputes, the firm successfully defended PNG Sustainable Development Program (PNGSDP) against the State of Papua New Guinea before the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal. PNGSDP has vindicated its position that it was established to promote sustainable development in Papua New Guinea under an independent structure free from state control. The firm also represented UniCredit Bank as a creditor in the liquidation of Hin Leong Trading.

The team successfully defended Jurong Primewide (JPW), a Temasek-linked company, on several contractual issues and successfully reduced the period of culpable delay alleged by the plaintiff and employer, Crescendas Bionics (CB). On appeal, JPW substantially succeeded before the Singapore Court of Appeal. An appeal on the second tranche pertaining to quantum matters is pending. Both parties have appealed against the decision of the High Court on issues of remoteness, causation, and the factors adopted by the High Court in quantifying damages for loss of rental.

In another highlight, the team acted for QBE Insurance and MS First Capital Insurance in Singapore’s first Covid-19 business interruption claim lodged in the High Court. The case hinges on the interpretation of an infectious disease extension clause in relevant insurance policies. The court’s interpretation of the clause will have far-reaching consequences for other insurance industry businesses.

The white-collar crime team represented a former director of Envy Asset Management and Envy Global Trading who faces numerous allegations of cheating, money laundering and fraudulent trading. The case has been reported in the local and foreign media to be the biggest “alleged ponzi scheme” in Singapore’s history and many of the alleged victims are persons of standing, including lawyers. This is one of the few white-collar crime cases in Singapore to be transmitted to the General Division of the High Court for trial.

Client feedback

“They have advised the client well and know the subject matter properly. They are also patient in addressing the client’s multiple queries.” – Construction

“Very professional in all fields, careful advice and considerate.” – Family and matrimonial

“Dentons stands out in providing a well-rounded suite of services, well-though-through and strategic advice, depth of knowledge in multiple areas of the law, quick return times, and very competent advocacy skills.” – Insurance

“Very professional, timely and good value for the service provided. Legal advice and knowledge were excellent.” – Trusts and estates

“Won a wrongful lawsuit against me in Singapore and currently still actively defending against my husband’s estate.” – Trusts and estates

Kia Meng Loh

“Leadership in team of lawyers – namely, Lynn Cheng and Ooi Shu Min.”

“Excellent knowledge, great customer-oriented service and great value. Approachable and professional.”

Navin Naidu

“Exceptional legal expertise and dedicated to the case.”

“Navin Naidu, my lawyer, has demonstrated exemplary legal expertise and unwavering commitment to my case. His meticulous preparation and keen attention to detail have yielded a favourable outcome.”

Edric Pan

“Delivers thorough and well-thought-through advice. Skilled and experienced in areas of law pertaining to insurance and insurance-related litigation. Works efficiently, understands clients’ concerns. Strategic thinker, flexible in the area of costs. Consistently delivers work of high quality, which fosters confidence and trust.”

Kirin Singh

“Good knowledge.”

Terence Wah

“Very knowledgeable in estate and trust law.”

With respected litigators and senior counsels such as Jimmy Yim, Cavinder Bull, Randolph Khoo and Siraj Omar in its ranks, Drew & Napier is easily one of Singapore’s premier litigation practices and takes a significant share of arbitration-related litigation work in the city-state. It is highly experienced in billion-dollar, complex international commercial arbitrations and landmark investor-state and investment treaty disputes. Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, foreign governments, multinational corporations and state-owned entities frequently instruct the team. The firm’s specialist dispute resolution lawyers are well versed in a diverse range of sectors such as construction and infrastructure, finance, energy and utilities, finance, commodities and technology. In the past 12 months, the cumulative value of the firm’s litigation and arbitration matters exceeded $16 billion.

Four years ago, Drew & Napier formed an alliance with two other top domestic firms in the region to form legal network Drew Network Asia. This partnership includes Shearn Delamore & Co in Malaysia and Makarim & Taira S in Indonesia, and will enable clients to obtain integrated, collaborative and seamless legal services across the region.

Other key litigators and disputes practitioners include family law veteran Randolph Khoo, IP head Tony Yeo and eminent insolvency lawyers Sushil Nair and Blossom Hing. White-collar focused Wendell Wong and Gary Low, and construction specialist Christopher Chong are also among the prominent lawyers. Directors Benedict Teo, Mahesh Rai, Shu Mei Hoon, Kelvin Tan, Meryl Koh and Foo Yuet Min are rising stars in their fields. The number of directors in the disputes practice has grown by 10% in the past year.

Key active clients include AIA Singapore, CapitaLand, JP Morgan, Johnson & Johnson, JP Morgan, Marina Bay Sands, Monetary Authority of Singapore, Nike, Razer, Singapore Airlines and UBS.

Client feedback

“Presentation of facts and arguments.” – Aviation

“Thorough and knowledgeable team.” – Banking and financial services

“Very experienced partners – especially Blossom Hing, who is my go-to partner at the firm. Blossom is hugely experienced, dedicated and hardworking and has built an excellent team who are equipped to handle complex disputes.” – Bankruptcy

“Very good and thorough in corporate litigation work.” – Commercial and transactions

“Everything.” – Commercial and transactions

“D&N have served us well.” – Commercial and transactions

“Prompt, responsive and focused advice. Excellent advocacy.” – Commercial and transactions

“Very efficient and very responsive. Clearly explaining legal terms.” – Commercial and transactions

“We appreciate the fact that See Chern Yang takes a very commercial based resolution approach versus going legal as the first step. His extremely sharp and analytical forward-looking mindset gives him the ability to break down concepts into easy bites for his clients. His pleasant disposition makes him a pleasure to work with.” – Commercial and transactions

“Clear direction and advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Litigation.... the go-to firm in Singapore for contentious work.” – Commercial and transactions

“Meticulous, efficient and professional. Absolutely no complaints.” – Commercial and transactions

“They understand the client’s business and commercial concerns, and they are experts at litigation.” – Commercial and transactions

“Drew & Napier is aggressive in its defence and conduct of its client’s case and interests.” – Commercial and transactions

"They are perfect.” – Commercial and transactions

“For my case, I engaged with lawyer Ms Larisa Cheng from the Drew & Napier LLC in Singapore. During the entire process, I had very positive experience with regard to the administrative support from the firm. It was timely, efficient and accommodating.” – Commercial and transactions

“All litigation is excellent.” – Commercial and transactions

“Very responsive. Very commercial approach, rather than aggressively pursuing confrontational moves.” – Commercial arbitration

“Quality and timeliness of advice. Also, on request, willing to provide a very quick overview of their initial read of the issue ahead of more formal advice.” – Commercial arbitration

“They think outside the box and understand the commercial aspects pretty well.” – Commercial arbitration

“Provides the best option in dealing with a dispute. They have the ability to draw reasonable and logical conclusions. Evaluative skills to choose the most suitable. Remarkable communicative skills.” – Commercial arbitration

“In-depth analysis in a timely way.” – Commercial arbitration

“Drew’s lawyers are very professional, highly competent and knowledgeable, commercial and responsive to its clients’ needs.” – Commercial arbitration

“We have been involved in seven years of litigation. I have never had a moment of regret.” – Commercial arbitration

“Drew & Napier were instructing lawyers on an international arbitration and HKA provided expert services. The interaction with HKA was very smooth and they were very responsive to questions and worked well as instructing lawyer.” – Construction

“They are extremely professional, knowledgeable and patient. The team comprising Blossom, Joshua and Claire from Drew always go the extra mile in the preparation of our case. They are trustworthy and honourable in their dealings while innovative in their legal strategy.” – Family and matrimonial

“Great at what they do in terms of service standards. Quality representation for their clients. Very collaborative for non-contentious matters like prenuptial agreements where sensitivity is required.” – Family and matrimonial

“Client service is exceptionally strong and is backed up by top-tier work products. I always feel confident when recommending Drew & Napier to clients that they will be well looked after.” – Family and matrimonial

“The same legal team handled my divorce case from 2010 to 2014. They are highly competent and are incredibly good at what they do.” – Family and matrimonial

“Highly efficient as a team. Resourceful and knowledgeable. Impactful writing skills. Providing meaningful outcomes for clients.” – Family and matrimonial

“Highest quality of legal advice, excellent interpretation of combination of legal principles in multiple jurisdictions.” – Family and matrimonial

"Clear and concise communication and dedicated strategy using the truth to achieve our goal of winning the case based on merit and hard work.” – Insurance

"Drew & Napier has handled and argued the dispute resolution issues very well.” – Intellectual property

“The legal team demonstrated an impressive mastery of intellectual property law, offering insightful analyses and arguments that underscored the distinctiveness and significance of our logo. Their meticulous approach to evaluating the validity of the trademark and assessing the potential infringement with Twitter showcased a thorough understanding of the legal landscape. Moreover, the team’s adept handling of negotiations and potential settlement discussions highlighted their commitment to exploring all avenues for resolution. Their ability to navigate the complexities of the case, coupled with a proactive approach to addressing challenges, undoubtedly played a pivotal role in presenting our case. In addition to their legal prowess, the team exhibited excellent communication skills, keeping us well informed at every stage of the process. Their transparency and responsiveness fostered a sense of confidence and trust, making the legal journey more manageable for all parties involved. Overall, Drew & Napier’s legal team has set a high standard for professionalism, expertise, and client service. We are immensely grateful for their efforts and commend them for their outstanding representation.” – Intellectual property

“Very detailed analysis of the law, with very practical application of the legal principles to address the client’s issues.” – International arbitration

“Excellent people who are at the top of the legal field.” – International arbitration

“Careful analysis of the case and robust case strategy.” – International arbitration

“In-depth technical knowledge blended with good commercial awareness. This is reflected in the legal advice dispensed.” – Labour and employment

“Partner Wendell Wong and his team provided strong and clear advice. Very committed and professional. Excellent analysis of the case that result in the best possible outcome.” – Labour and employment

“Drew & Napier takes a holistic view of the different aspects of the matter and develops a comprehensive strategy to defend the case with robust arguments.” – Real estate

“Business-savvy advice and customisable legal services with flexibility.” – Technology and telecommunications

“Drew teams, particularly disputes teams headed by Mahesh Rai and tax teams headed by Shi Yong Yang, have great attention to detail, are extremely commercial and practical, and absorb the nuances of technology very rapidly. Even day-to-day e-mails from them are always impeccably written and have all necessary details set out and clearly outlined. Even the junior on the team can be asked for a small detail and they can immediately respond (and they are very responsive even at 11pm). They also frame advice in clear commercial and practical aspects, and do not shy from giving a recommendation beyond merely listing a number of options. They also readily absorb the technology when briefed by my team and can ensure that their advice is both feasible and practical in the context of the technology involved. They pick up where the technology involved makes a big difference, and the technology is extremely new and esoteric – there are few real specialist lawyers who understand these contexts.” – Technology and telecommunications

"The team provides timely, practical and on-point legal solutions and advice.” – Technology and telecommunications

“Excellent at taking instructions, drafting and, presenting the case.” – Trusts and estates

Daniel Cai

“Extremely driven and a very intelligent thinker.”

“Verypleasant with an excellent and firm legal background. Extremely responsive to the client’s needs.”

Larisa Cheng

“Approachable, responsive and attentive, effective.”

“I engaged with Larisa for my matter. Shewas making an extra effort to make sure that her client was aware of the big picture of the case. She advised me to approach the matter wisely and in a cost-efficient manner. She explained the strategy and practical issues in detail and set up the best reasonable goals for the proceedings. She delivered flawless affidavits and promptly responded to my emails and phone calls. And I would say that Larisa always had a listening ear for her client.”

See Chern Yang

“Thorough and knowledgeable.”

“He is an excellent mediator who is patient and persistent.”

“Highly efficient in solving problems and meeting datelines. Manages expectations and provides meaningful outcomes for client. Impactful writing skills.”

“Able to communicate clearly and explain issues well at the client’s level.”

Voon Jiet Chia

“Knowledgeable and commercial. Listens well and is responsive. Gives suggestions to solve problems.”

Joshua Chin

“Joshua is very responsive and professional in his dealings. He is very patient.”

Desmond Chng

“Proactive and innovative practitioner who provides prompt and practical legal advice.”

Yuet Min Foo

“Great attention to detail, quality of advice and ability to provide a very quick initial assessment of a situation ahead of formal advice.”

Blossom Hing

“Blossom has fantastic experience and knowledge of disputes, litigation and arbitration. Beyond that, Blossom is hugely dedicated to her clients and works tirelessly for them. Most recently, Blossom has built a strong team of very capable lawyers to support her and her clients.”

“Blossom is an outstanding litigator with a ferocious work ethic. I can also count on the undivided attention of her team, which has depth and breadth. I value her for how she always goes beyond the call of duty.”

“I have mostly used Blossom Hing. She is my trusted adviser because she is not just an excellent litigator – above all, she provides sound commercial advice.”

Shu Mei Hoon

“She takes time to really understand her clients’ needs and objectives and helps her clients to avoid unnecessary conflicts without giving up ground.”

“Shu Mei is a dedicated and tenacious litigator who is not averse to using alternative dispute resolution mechanisms like mediation to explore and achieve an amicable resolution. She is well regarded in her practice area and can be relied on to give sound advice.”

“Excellent understanding of emotional components of family law issues.”

Randolph Khoo

“Intrinsic knowledge of legal matters he is dealing with and vast experience. Provides meaningful commercial recommendations in a very timely manner.”

Rakesh Kirpalani

“Professional and trustworthy.”

“Responsive, clear, quick-thinking, approachable and, helpful.”

Meryl Koh

“Meryl is an excellent strategist and provides you with the necessary information to make an informed decision.”

“Meryl possesses a remarkable strategic vision, consistently formulating and executing well-thought-out legal strategies that align with our objectives. She exhibits a high level of legal expertise. Her comprehensive knowledge of the intricacies of trademark litigation has been instrumental in providing insightful guidance to the team and ensuring a robust case presentation. Facing the dynamic nature of legal proceedings, Meryl demonstrates a high degree of adaptability. She is quick to assess evolving situations, adjust strategies accordingly, and guide the team through challenges with resilience.”

Samuel Koh

“Samuel was very responsive to communications and built an excellent relationship with HKA and its experts. He was a pleasure to work with and very helpful in providing direction and clarity on instructions.”

Man Er Kong

“Man Er is an excellent lawyer. Always calm, reasoned, detailed and efficient. She considers every angle and is always ready with an answer.”

“She helped me win an appeal after an assessment of my case"

Shumin Lin

“Shumin has a quick grasp of the issues. She can always be counted on to provide insightful, clear and practical legal strategy. She demonstrates keen attention to detail in her work without losing sight of the broad strategy. She is a safe pair of hands.”

“Very attentive to details, very prompt in response.”

Mahesh Rai

“Giving good and professional advice. Being friendly and helpful on a personal level.”

“Good judgement, advising skills, creativity in problem solving.”

“The positive attributes of the team in general are all reflected by Mahesh. He frames advice very commercially and succinctly and will never recommend spending time to fight matters that can be settled cheaply and quickly, independent of the merits. He understands the technology and absorbs it and does not rely on juniors for this. He is extremely responsive and even when he is at trial you will get a quick response, within 24 hours. He pays attention even to smaller matters.”

Allister Tan

“Good dialogue regarding our options in our claim and also hitting back against the stalling tactics.”

Kelvin Tan

“An expert in his field and very commercially aware.”

Yuan Kheng Tan

“Proactive attitude, detailed and prompt responses.”

Gerald Tay

“He has been leading my anti-suit injunction and doing a good job.”

Benedict Teo

“Very responsive and thinks from a client perspective.”

Wendell Wong

“Proactive, responsive and aggressive in protecting/furthering client's interests.”

“One of the top disputes and litigation lawyers in Singapore. Provides strong and clear advice. Committed and passionate about the case. Spends time on the case. Excellent analysis of the case and rendered advice that led to the best possible outcome.”

Shu Yan Woo

“Excellent litigation counsel.”

Tony Yeo

“He has created and runs a first-class team and keeps the clients well informed and involved.”

“Tony is excellent in his work and relationship building with clients.”

Javier Yeo

“Javier is exceptionally hardworking and meticulous, with a deep understanding of complex legal issues and a strategic approach to case management. His clear and, persuasive communication skills stand out, making him an effective and reliable lawyer.”

Jimmy Yim

“He is a very good communicator, a very clever lawyer, and he presents cases well. He wins.”

Eldan Law is well known for its construction and engineering practice. The firm acts on the full spectrum of construction disputes, including front-end and back-end work, litigation, adjudication and arbitration. The firm’s partners are frequently called upon to act as arbitrators in complex projects-related disputes both in Singapore and Malaysia. The firm also has a growing insolvency practice.

Key names include the trio of founding partners: Edwin Lee, Lawrence Tan and Daniel Koh. Other names to note for construction mandates include Ming Ming Looi, Boon On Yong, Sandra Tan, Jennifer Fong and Danna Er. Partner Imran Rahim is the contact for contentious insolvency matters.

Rahim led a team for Quantuma Singapore and KAMS Singapore, the court-appointed liquidators, in negotiations to secure funding from creditors.

Ella Cheong is an IP specialist firm with offices in Singapore and Hong Kong. Its services include IP litigation and enforcement of trademarks, patents, domain names and registered designs. A well-established name in the IP field, the firm was founded 30 years ago and works with clients across a myriad of sectors, including aviation, manufacturing, luxury, FMCG, cleantech, pharmaceutical, education, and food and beverages.

The key contacts are managing director Kar Liang Soh and director Kevin Wong. 

Disputes-focused firm Eugene Thuraisingam handles both domestic and international litigation and arbitration involving industries such as shipping, oil and gas, and construction. Peers have credited the firm for its strength in constitutional and criminal litigation matters. The team is regularly engaged for regulatory investigations, white-collar crime investigations and by those being investigated or disciplined by various professional authorities in Singapore. Familiar with the major arbitral institutions, the firm is adept at handling matters from pre-arbitration negotiations to post-award proceedings. Its lawyers are especially skilled in trial advocacy and in the art of cross-examination. The group has an office in Bangkok, part of its expansion and strategy to grow its commercial arbitration practice regionally.

The criminal defence litigation practice deserves special mention, with the team celebrating numerous achievements in tough cases before the state. It has obtained landmark judgments, including the Court of Appeal’s decision, for the first time in Singapore’s legal history, to review its own concluded decision convicting an accused person (it eventually reversed its own decision); secured numerous acquittals in trial at both the High Court and the state courts, including for those persons charged with capital offences; and it has successfully persuaded the prosecution to resolve matters amicably.

The team is led by noted litigator Eugene Thuraisingam and includes partners Suang Wijaya, Chooi Jing Yen and Johannes Hadi.

The firm acted for Sports Connection in its claim against a former director and shareholder. It also represented one of two director-shareholders of a restaurant and successfully persuaded the court to make a finding in relation to the client’s standing to challenge a winding up on grounds that it is an abuse of process when the company appears to be insolvency. This was a novel point of law.

Client feedback

“Very professional and also able to engage in a very understandable way with regard to the legal matters.” – Banking and financial services

“Great at communications, advisory, depth of knowledge in a broad range of specific fields, and guidance through process and professional conduct.” – Commercial and transactions

“Collaborative, knowledgeable and reliable legal advice on commercial litigation.” – Commercial and transactions

“Suang, Rachel and Sophia are absolutely dedicated to their roles. They are professional, responsive and provide clear strategy. They execute well and seek various ways to do the best for the client. Difficult situations that seem at an impasse are met by their creativity. They communicate clearly with care and provide sound legal advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Every aspect of preparation of the defense.” – Commercial and transactions

“Thorough in their advice. Responsive. Considered all aspects of legal risks to us.” – Commercial and transactions

“They studied and understood my case thoroughly.” – Commercial arbitration

“Resolving and litigating in complex commercial and civil disputes.” – Commercial arbitration

“Dispute resolution.” – Construction

“Good advice, well-prepared letters and arguments. Felt like they had my back.” – Family and matrimonial

“They have been highly systematic in the advice they have given.” – Government and regulatory

“Professional and experienced.” – Government and regulatory

“The advice I received was quick, succinct and easy to understand.” – Government and regulatory

“They are experienced and were able to direct me to give them the right details and information necessary for my case.” – Insurance

“The lawyers are patient and provide good professional advice and explanations. They are also meticulous and detailed in their work.” – Insurance

“I have not yet formally engaged them on this assignment, but will do so. Eugene Thuraisingam is attentive to details, knowledgeable and comprehensive.” – International arbitration

“Excellent at employment disputes.” – Labour and employment

“Very client-focused and aligned with client’s goals.” – Labour and employment

“Attentive to details. Knowledgeable. Reasonable fees.” – Labour and employment

“Sound advice. Efficient turnaround.” – Labour and employment

“Attention to detail. They consider all aspects of legal risks and explain things clearly.” – Trusts and estates

“Communication with customers.” – White-collar crime

“Top-tier litigation work, not afraid to go up against larger firms.” – White-collar crime

Johannes Hadi

“Friendly, attentive to our case and always paraphrase technical issues in a way that we can understand the risks and considerations.”

Chooi Jing Yen

“Quick and clear.”

“He is able to understand both my professional and personal concerns.”

“Knowledgeable, courteous, and helpful, with a positive attitude.”

“He is a good listener and knowledgeable. Able to grasp the key issues quickly.”

“Professional, knowledgeable, composed, able to explain elements and process in a logical matter. He has the ability to foresee the other side’s strategy and prepare for multiple outcomes for expedited responses.”

“Very perceptive and detail-oriented person. Gave very sound advice as well as instructions.”

“He is very professional, patient and provides good advice.”

“Attentive, professional, sharp.”

“Very calm and took the time to explain everything well.”

“He pays attention to details and was able to quickly understand my industry and work. He is also very patient and pragmatic.”

Eugene Thuraisingam

“Attentive to details, patient and knowledgeable.”

“He explains things in layman’s terms, making sure I understood everything. Also, he is patient and friendly.”

“Responsive, alert, aware of legal developments, friendly and helpful.”

“Responsive, prompt and effective.”

Suang Wijaya

“He is knowledgeable and tries as hard to be as responsive as he can. He executes well and gives sound strategy. I would trust him to help me with difficult legal disputes.”

“He understood well the details of our case.”

“Very focused on achieving the best possible result for his clients. Personally invested in the welfare and success of his clients while being very competent and professional.”

“He is very invested in a client’s outcome. He works hard and is very knowledgeable. Very fair costs.”

“He is a great problem solver and a very good listener.”

“He is a very dogged and determined lawyer. He’s – able to synthesise large amounts of information in advising the client.”

“I would recommend him, he is very good.”

“Knowledgeable and quick to resolve questions.”

“He is hardworking, knowledgeable and transparent.”

Focus Law Asia is a specialist litigation boutique with a speciality in domestic and regional shipping disputes. It is also developing a North-Asian disputes practice thanks to its strong base of Japanese and Korean clients. The firm has dedicated Japanese and Korean desks staffed by dually qualified senior practitioners. Apart from its prowess in contentious maritime matters, the team handles a broad range of disputes including international arbitration and commercial litigation. Examples of recent cases include investment, shareholder, commodities trading, construction and insurance disputes.

The key disputes partners for shipping and commercial matters are managing director Shem Khoo and directors Mark Tan and Ker Sheon Lim.

The team assisted Maersk Tankers Singapore to successfully resist summary judgment applications made by United Overseas Bank and Standard Chartered Bank for misdelivery arising out of the discharge of cargoes without original bills of lading.

The firm counts 3H Air Condition & Engineering, Adera Global, Aeturnum Energy International, Alpha DX Group, Nishiki Real Estate and Waseda Singapore as part of its active client roster.

Client feedback

“Prompt, professional and, efficient” – Commercial and transactions

“Focus Law Asia has a strong commercial focus. Although our business is unique and complex, the firm quickly grasped the important details.”– Commercial and transactions

“They are proactive in terms of proposing solutions and are prompt with updates.” – Commercial and transactions

“Quick response to client’s concerns. Full understanding of the situation. Sound and wise advice. Well thought-out strategy.” – Commercial arbitration

“Very focused and innovative in finding solutions to litigation.” – Shipping

Shem Khoo

“He is very experienced and very commercial. He is easy to work with as well as being very knowledgeable.”

“Responsive and professional.”

"He possesses strong analytical skills to examine information, identify relevant facts, and develop sound legal strategies. This involves critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.”

“Shem and his team spent a significant amount of time researching legal precedents, statutes, and regulations. This has helped us to build a solid case.”

Ker Sheon Lim

“He is meticulous, is equipped with a strong business mind while grappling with legal matters of which he has great experience. We are very confident he can deal with the tasks we need his help on.”

Ryan Yap

“He is patient in explaining details to us. He’s also quick and efficient in processing and preparing of documents.”

Fullerton Law Chambers’ primary strength is in corporate and commercial disputes and it regularly acts for blue-chip corporate clients before the High Court and Court of Appeal in Singapore. Its dispute resolution practice spans a wide range of domestic and multi-jurisdictional corporate and commercial disputes, as well as international arbitration. The firm’s senior practitioners are consistently instructed as both arbitrator and counsel in international and domestic arbitrations seated in multiple forums around the globe. Market peers have nodded at their increased visibility in the past 12 months in notable cases.

The key contacts are directors Edmund Eng and Wei Chern Tham and associate director Brinden Anandakumar.

The team continues to represent a major bank in a number of proceedings arising from the collapse of oil and gas giant Hin Leong Trading. In one of the matters, the client claimed an interest in significant quantities of oil and gas cargoes stored at Universal Terminal and on board the vessel Ocean Taipan. These proceedings will challenge the Singapore courts to grapple with novel and complex issues of law relating to the passing of title of property, among others.

In another highlight, the firm defended the Great Room in relation to a claim by Turms Advisors for fees allegedly owed. The dispute was settled amicably. Royal Bank of Canada instructed the firm to fight against scammers who had perpetrated a multi-million-dollar fraud against it.

Client feedback

“They are responsive.” – Bankruptcy

“Efficient, effective, and good value for money.” – Commercial arbitration

“FLC demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and dedication. Their in-depth understanding of construction law and insurance matters was evident throughout the process. What impressed me the most was their ability to navigate the complexities of litigation with precision and confidence. Our group affiliate secured a favourable resolution in our construction insurance dispute.” – Construction

“They have an in-depth understanding of the oil and gas industry and the supporting industries – maritime, banking, etc. This means they can offer a laser-sharp identification of the issues. They are able to provide the exact solution or strategy to the problems arising.” – Energy

“They provide succinct and practical legal advice, while being cost-effective.” – International arbitration

“Detailed and professional.” – Shipping

Brinden Anandakumar

“He is pro-active and, professional. He gives constant updates and has an ability to integrate the client’s comments as part of strategy.”

Edmund Eng

“In-depth knowledge of the industry and very sharp person.”

“Efficient, effective and very clear communications.”

Wei Chern Tham

“Detailed and professional. Deep knowledge of our business. Prompt in delivery. Reliable.”

“Wei Chern is responsive and well versed in my line of business.”

“Very knowledgeable, calm and effective.”

Gateway Law Corporation’s real strength is in intellectual property, employment law and telecommunications, media and technology. However, it is also active in the disputes space, where it supplements its IP litigation expertise with commercial disputes, insolvency and arbitration work. In addition to contentious IP work, the team is active in anti-counterfeiting initiatives and enforcement.

Leading the contentious team is managing director Max Ng.

All cases submitted for consideration remain confidential, but the firm is busy managing various IP owners’ patent and trademark portfolios in the pharmaceuticals, technology and media sectors.

Former associate director Amira Budiyano left in October 2021 for an in-house position.

Key clients include Challenger Technologies, Formula One Licensing, Lucence Diagnostics, Mister Minit, National University of Singapore, TenX and Xiaomi.

Client feedback

“They are responsive to clients and offer a tailored approach to solving clients’ needs.” – Commercial and transactions

“Prompt to respond to queries.” – Intellectual property

Max Ng

“He makes the effort to understand the company and the context of the situation. He’s clear in providing legal options and also on the efficacy of the different options.”

“Responsive in a timely manner.”

Gateway Law Corporation’s core strengths are in IP, employment law and technology, media and telecommunications. However, it is also active in the disputes space, where it supplements its IP litigation expertise with commercial disputes, insolvency and arbitration work. In addition, the team is active in anti-counterfeiting initiatives and enforcement.

Leading the contentious team are managing director Max Ng and counsel Mitchel Chua.

All cases submitted for consideration remain confidential, but the firm is busy managing various IP owners’ patent and trademark portfolios in the pharmaceuticals, technology and media sectors.

Key clients include Challenger Technologies, Formula One Licensing, Lucence Diagnostics, Mister Minit, National University of Singapore, TenX and Xiaomi.

The Singapore office of global litigation powerhouse Gibson Dunn continues to serve the firm’s broad case of clients and their arbitration needs across the region. Its key markets serviced out of Singapore are Indonesia, Malaysia, China, South Korea and India. The team has a solid track record of mandates in the natural resources, telecoms, technology and infrastructure sectors. Last year, the firm represented clients such as Nokia, Pacific Fiber, Wistron Corporation, Borneo Agri-Resources International Singapore and Binance.

Heading up the litigation and arbitration team is partner Paul Tan.

Petronas instructed the firm for its disputes arising out of its $28 billion joint venture with Aramco to build an integrated oil and petrochemicals refinery in Malaysia.

The firm’s top tier contentious family and matrimonial practice is widely known in the market. The construction and engineering group has carved out a niche in the area of marine engineering, dredging, land reclamation and shores protection. Its clients include high-profile local and international individuals, banks, financial institutions, as well as corporations. The firm also offers solid mediation advocacy capability with trained mediators accredited as principal and associate mediators with the Singapore Mediation Centre.

Managing partner and head of dispute resolution practice Philip Fong and partners Suressh S, Andy Lem, Chau Yee Tan, Justin Chia, Yvonne Foo and Joanna Seetoh are the key figures at the firm. The latter four are construction specialists. Francis Goh heads the international arbitration department, Esther Wee leads the IP team, while Siew Fong Foo, Carrie Gill and Wen Yi Thian are known for their outstanding family and matrimonial expertise.

The construction team defended YTL Concrete against claims by HSL Constructor and Public Utilities Board for damage caused to the latter’s water pipe and other losses resulting from ground stress exerted at the site of the Bedok Canal.

Key clients include BRC Asia, DBS Bank, GAM Kimura Commodity Trade Finance Fund, Rich-Link Construction, Singapore Ministry of Health, Standard Chartered Bank and Vantage Shipbrokers.

Client feedback

“Excellent attention to detail, understanding of my requirements alongside the speed and accuracy of delivery.” – Commercial and transactions

“Provides a brilliant alternative approach and applicable legal advice based on the contract.” – Construction

“We appreciate their dedication and sincerity.” – Family and matrimonial

“Practical and commercially savvy advice. Strong technical knowledge.” – International arbitration

“Fast responses and detailed.” – Labour and employment

“Service is prompt, and legal expertise is commendable.” – Labour and employment

Cherrilynn Chia

“Customer-oriented and flexible. Able to articulate and communicate well.”

Yvonne Foo

“I appreciate her sincerity.”

“Good communications, responsiveness, knowledge, and strategic planning in facing the case.”

“Excellent attention to detail, knowledge of the construction industry and international experience.”

Farrah Isaac

“Strong understanding of the law. Gives clear advice.”

Andy Lem

“Calm and composed. Strong technical knowledge and a good advocate.”

Joanna Seetoh

“Knowledgeable. Unrivalled attention to detail. Always willing to go the extra mile for her clients. An outstanding lawyer and a great fighter to have by your legal side.”

Helmsman is best known for its shipping and commodities work, but it has recently expanded to cover commercial disputes as well. The firm has offices in Singapore and Hong Kong, and the combined teams house more than 20 specialist fee earners. The litigation and arbitration groups cover shipping, trade and commodities, corporate and finance, restructuring and insolvency, energy projects, fraud and recovery, company law, employment law and general dispute resolution. The team works with commodity traders, banks and charterers in high-value, cross-border disputes across the globe. It also has substantial experience in the mid and downstream liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector, particularly in LNG shipping and chartering and LNG trade disputes. To support the firm’s foray into general disputes, one partner and five litigation associates were hired in the past year across the two offices.

Key members of the firm include commodities and shipping experts Ian Teo, Chong Jun Tang, and Maureen Poh, as well as corporate disputes specialists Lynette Koh and Una Khng. The latter joined late last year from the Singapore Supreme Court, where she was a former district judge and registrar.

Client feedback

“Helmsman was able to clearly articulate the client’s viewpoint while supporting it with clever arguments based on the contract, essentially negating the claims of the other party. This has ultimately led to a settlement which highly exceeded the amounts mentioned by the other party prior to terminating the contract.” – Commercial and transactions

“They professionally outlined my standing in this case.” – Commercial arbitration

“Matthew is available, quick and precise. He understands the needs of the business.” – Labour and employment

“Matthew consistently provides highly informative advice, demonstrating a keen awareness of my knowledge gaps and adeptly filling them. The response time for casework is impressively short, and the quality of the product is truly superb.” – Labour and employment

Benjamin Bala

“He listens attentively, answers questions and makes comments very confidently. Basically, he knows what he’s doing. He will even attend to my requests on weekends.”

Una Khng

“She has a deep understanding of the law, especially in relation to commercial affairs. She has a quick understanding of the issues and possible solutions, is a fantastic communicator, gives a balanced presentation of possible outcomes, given any path taken may have risk. She is responsive and proactive even when the client is slow to respond.”

Matthew Teo

“Matthew is very accessible and provides me with the advice I need.”

Global firm Herbert Smith Freehills is famed for its market-leading litigation and arbitration practice across the region, including Singapore. The team consistently features in groundbreaking flagship cases, with top-end clients entrusting their “bet the company” disputes to the HSF lawyers. The Singapore offering is particularly noted for its energy and natural resources expertise, as well as its specialism in construction and engineering. Other core disputes areas include TMT, banking and financial services, commercial contracts, and shareholder and JV matters. The group also advises on high-value, high-profile investment treaty claims and arbitrations, typically in cross-office teams. The Singapore team houses four partners, who are supported by six specialist international arbitration lawyers. The firm operates a fully integrated arbitration practice group in Southeast Asia across its Singapore, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok offices.

Head of international arbitration for Southeast Asia, Alastair Henderson helms a leadership team that includes seasoned disputes practitioners Elaine Wong, Tomas Furlong, Gitta Satryani and Daniel Waldek.

In one high-stakes highlight during the research period, a cross-office team is representing two Sinopec Group subsidiaries in the largest claim every filed with the SIAC, valued at over $5.5 billion. The claim arises from the purchase of a 49% stake in a UK North Sea joint venture, now majority-owned by Spanish oil major Repsol. The tribunal has made multiple findings of fraud against Repsol, a significant achievement given the extremely high bar for establishing fraud under English law. This was also a landmark victory for a Chinese state-owned enterprise. The parties are working towards a hearing this year to determine the quantum of damages payable. In parallel, Repsol has applied to set aside two of the awards before the Singapore International Commercial Court.

In May 2023, Singapore firm Prolegis formally joined Herbert Smith Freehills to establish a market-leading litigation and arbitration practice. Upon the launch of this new offering, Prolegis brought on board a four-strong team of commercial and insolvency disputes veterans from Morgan Lewis Stamford. At the time of submission, the domestic team had nine fee earners. The Prolegis litigation team fits seamlessly into the holistic offering of the HSF global network, servicing the disputes powerhouse’s biggest regional clients in sectors such as cryptocurrency, technology, energy, construction and infrastructure. The team mainly focuses on Singapore High Court and Court of Appeal-level mandates.

The Prolegis team is led by managing director Daniel Chia, and directors Yanguang Ker and Jonathan Tang. The former two focus on commercial disputes, while Tang is an insolvency specialist. HSF’s head of international arbitration for Southeast Asia, Alastair Henderson guides a team that includes seasoned disputes practitioners Tomas Furlong, Gitta Satryani and Daniel Waldek.

In one highlight, the team defended Tembusu Growth Fund against a claim by investee company founders for conspiracy to defraud.

Best known for its shipping practice, Joseph Lopez provides a comprehensive range of legal services to both local and international clients. The firm represents multinational companies, government bodies, blue-chip corporations and high-net-worth individuals before all levels of Singapore courts and various institutional arbitral centres including the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC), Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Its expertise lies in shipping, engineering, natural resources, commodities trading and oil and gas.

The firm is led by Joseph Lopez and another key lawyer is partner Mubin Shah. Lopez primarily focuses on commercial international arbitration with a specialisation in commodities and energy.

In one case highlight, the firm represented a shipping company as the respondent in ongoing Singapore-seated arbitration proceedings under SIAC Rules. The dispute concerns alleged breaches of corporate guarantees related to JVAs for financing arrangements and vessel construction.

Joseph Tan Jude Benny is best known for shipping litigation and arbitration, but the prominence of its commercial disputes practice has increased and it is acting on more general litigation, with a growing energy and commodities platform. For example, at present more than half of the team’s case load involves non-maritime-related claims, with the team acting for financiers, contractors and international companies. Besides specialist sector-focused disputes, the firm is also skilled in handling commercial contractual claims, investment disputes, insurance, insolvency, defamation and fraud cases. The team has extensive experience in high-profile wet and dry shipping matters, and admiralty proceedings, including the arresting and releasing of vessels, constituting limitation funds for collision matters and personal injury matters.

The key contacts at the firm for commercial and shipping disputes are Murali Pany, Danny Chua and John Sze.

The team continues to act for Grant Thornton as the judicial managers of Xihe Holdings, and for dozens of ship-owning companies in relation to the Hin Leong Group insolvency. The work involved dealing with claims from more than a dozen banks and traders, each entity having exposure from tens of millions to hundreds of millions from the collapse of the Hin Leong as a whole, for which Xihe holding is the main asset owner within the group structure.

Client feedback

“Good knowledge. They provide reasonable and fast advice.” – International arbitration

“Generally, the management of the litigation process is pretty good.” – Shipping

Rafizah Gaffoor

“Positive attitude and good communicator.”

Murali Pany

“Very responsive, clear understanding of issues to be evaluated, strategic thinking and professional service.”

“Straight in finding solution for client.”

K&L Gates Straits Law has a respected commercial litigation and arbitration practice led by five disputes-focused partners. It is able to represent clients in both local and cross-border disputes, and in the past year has worked on contentious matters across a diverse range of industry sectors around the region. The team routinely acts for multinational corporations, financial institutions, local corporates and individual litigants in their local, regional and global disputes. The firm has seen an uptick in force majeure mandates, as well as insolvency-related instructions. Its investigations practice continued to expand last year, covering not only large cross-border investigations but also more diverse domestic white-collar crime matters.

Managing partner and senior counsel Sreenivasan Narayanan is the key contact for disputes at the firm. Other practitioners to note are partners Palaniappan Sundararaj, a specialist for complex tort and banking and trade litigation, international arbitration expert Raja Bose, and corporate disputes lead Valerie Ang. Muralli Rajaram is the go-to lawyer for restructuring and insolvency litigation.

The team continues to act for the former judicial managers and now liquidators of Ocean Tankers, the sister company of oil and commodities trader Hin Leong Trading. It additionally assisted Alternative Advisors Investments (AAI) in its claim to recover monies under a loan agreement and a personal guarantee, both of which have been assigned to AAI. The assignor of the loan and personal guarantee was previously a co-plaintiff to the suit.

In a complex, cross-border labour matter, the team is representing an individual in an unfair dismissal claim against Verifone Singapore. There are several documents that govern the relationship between the parties. These documents contain conflicting jurisdiction clauses and dispute resolution clauses. Accordingly, the key issues include what applicable law and dispute resolution mechanism may govern the dispute. Concurrent proceedings will likely be held in litigation and arbitration between Singapore and the US.

In another restructuring and insolvency matter, the team was instructed by a construction company for its scheme of arrangement proposed to its creditors. The scheme was a highly unusual one in that it envisaged payment to the creditors from the proceeds of several dispute proceedings that were under way or yet to be commenced. The scheme passed and, in a related arbitration proceeding, a favourable award was issued on behalf of the client and an appeal against the award was successfully resisted.

The white-collar crime team has been busy representing a Malaysian national and businessman who faces 189 charges under the Securities and Futures Act, Penal Code and Companies Act for various market misconduct and related offences. This matter has been highly publicised and the size and complexity of the case is unprecedented. It has been described by the Singapore authorities as “the most extensive case of market manipulation and securities fraud in Singapore”.

Core active clients include Alternative Advisors Investments, Bank of India, LS Cable & System, Indian Overseas Bank, Right Angle Media, UGL, SK Group and Union Bank of India.

Client feedback

“The team has a very good understanding of international law, the ability to get to the main and critical issues quickly, and the lawyers are very meticulous in their approach.” – International arbitration

“They give practical and commercial advice.” – International arbitration

Muralli Rajaram

“He is extremely well-focused and meticulous. He gets to the key issue of the case quickly.”

Sreenivasan Narayanan “Good at strategising.”

Global firm King & Spalding has long been a market leader for international arbitration in the region. It is particularly renowned for its oil and gas, construction, and investment treaty arbitration expertise. The Singapore arbitration team is composed of four key partners with decades of experience in Asia, and 12 other fee earners who exclusively practice international arbitration. The team had a record 2023, acting for some of the world’s best-known multinational corporations in significant pleadings and hearings for large commercial, construction and investment treaty cases. The lawyers have carved out a niche expertise in the nuclear sector and is go-to firm for investment treaty arbitration. Many of the lawyers practice as arbitrators in international arbitrations under major arbitration rules across multiple jurisdictions.

The leadership is stacked will well-respected international arbitration specialists such as Wade Coriell, Elodie Dulac, Nils Eliasson, and Anisha Sud. Special matters and government investigations partner Richard Sharpe joined the team from Kirkland & Ellis Hong Kong.

The list of notable highlights is long for the King & Spalding team, which is handling several individual cases with more than $1 billion at stake. The team continues to represent Prime Energy Resources Development in an ICSID arbitration against the Republic of the Philippines in relation to the allocation of petroleum revenues under a petroleum services contract with the state. This is one of the highest-value arbitrations in Philippine history, with $1.5 billion at stake.

LegisPoint is an independent boutique firm with expertise in cross-border international disputes and arbitration. The firm regularly works closely with local law firms and international law firms in the UK, the US and other countries. The dispute resolution practice is run by Samuel Chacko, a seasoned litigator with an active international arbitration practice. He is a chartered arbitrator, and an accredited adjudicator and mediator. Chacko has been lead counsel in a number of substantial international arbitrations involving complex cross-border legal and factual issues. The disputes team is led by Chacko and he is supported in the leadership by Roslina Bte Baba and Lim Shack Keong.

Newly formed boutique Lighthouse Law has core strengths in white-collar crime and investigations, and general dispute resolution. Within the white-collar practice, the team has a solid track record of acting on economic crimes, securities offences and corruption matters. On the disputes side, the practice comprises international arbitration, real estate and trust disputes, along with the recovery of assets following fraud. The firm is a part of US-based Aliant Law, a global law firm. Lighthouse is its second office in the region.

The disputes practice is led by managing partner Adrian Wee and partner Rachel Soh, who both joined from Characterist.

In one highlight, the team acted as defence counsel for a director of a Singapore firm linked to the collapse of German payments firm Wirecard.

Established in 2018, LIMN Law Corporation is a boutique that focuses on construction arbitration and litigation. Although most of the firm’s work is contentious related, it does offer general commercial disputes representation and advice on construction-related corporate matters. The firm routinely acts for major local owners, developers, contractors and consultants, as well as interior design firms. It also actively represents clients in construction adjudication. The firm consistently punches above its weight, snagging an almost 10% market share of all construction adjudication cases in Singapore.

Managing director John Lim is the key contact.

In a highlight, Lim and his team acted for an international infrastructure construction company in the marine civil engineering sector against the Public Utilities Board, Singapore’s national water agency, in a S$18 million ($13.2 million) dispute. The claim arose from construction work carried out at the Changi Water Reclamation Plant. This is the first known dispute of its kind against Singapore’s national water agency, and one of the largest – if not the largest – adjudication claims in Singapore since the enactment of the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act.

Client feedback

“Comprehensive and good service.” – Construction

John Lim

“Very helpful and caring.”

Founded in 2017 by senior counsel Lok Vi Ming, LVM Law Chambers is a respected disputes boutique offering a comprehensive range of dispute resolution services spanning commercial litigation, construction, insurance, media and telecommunications disputes, tax, mediation, real estate, regulatory, maritime and white-collar matters. The firm occupies a unique space, being able to represent clients against established institutions and organisations when larger firms cannot because of conflicts. Its mediation offering has also grown, with mandates in this form of resolution steadily increasing. Lok is the deputy chairman of the Singapore International Mediation Centre.

The firm has been consistently instructed in high-profile cross-border cases involving China, Brazil, Europe, Japan, Malaysia, the UK and the US. It has a dedicated China desk that is handling an increasing volume of matters involving Chinese parties, with interests in construction, technology, private equity and infrastructure.

Managing director Lok Vi Ming leads an experienced team that includes joint managing director Joseph Lee, director Mohd Haireez and associate directors Ooi Huey Hien, Justin Chan, Jonathan Muk and Qabir Sandhu.

In one highlight, the team successfully defended the owner of a group of import-export businesses, against a claim by his son for the majority of a subsidiary supermarket premised on an alleged oral contract. The claim raised issues concerning the formation of an oral contract, as well as the standard of proof to satisfy the intentions to create legal relations requirement in a familial context.

Client feedback

“They give thorough advice and are willing to get down and dirty to the nuts and bolts. No holding back on adequate resourcing to get the matter done under difficult timelines.” – Bankruptcy

“LVM Law Chambers is responsive and provides solid services.” – Commercial and transactions

“The team of lawyers we worked with are all very knowledgeable and responsive.” – Commercial and transactions

“Sufficient resources and very good communication.” – Construction

“They showed attention to detail, picking out information from the documents I have provided that they could use to support my claim. They have also continuously verified information with me, suggested steps I could take for my other concerns and provided guidance every step of the way.” – Family and matrimonial

“LVM is very experienced, seasoned and knows the landscape well. The firm is very strategic and able to conceptualise the angle to fight. It fought boldly and tenaciously. LVM fights to win.” – Insurance

“They are exceptional at understanding the crux of the dispute and running the entire case on their own. As a client, it is very important that the counsel understands the client’s point of view and then works on the case in the best interest of the client. We are stunned by the dedication and hard work that each member of the firm brings into our case.” – International arbitration

“They are exceptional when it comes to analysing arguments and reviewing the case files. They work with precision and put in extra hours to ensure that client is satisfied with the end-result.” – International arbitration

“Practical, cost-efficient and timely advice.” – Shipping

“They are very well-organised, responsive to clients’ needs, have an excellent grasp of the facts and legal issues, and are able to draft legal documents in a very clear and accurate manner.” – Trade and customs

“Efficient, good legal writing, well-thought-out submissions and sound legal principles. Overall, excellent end-product!” – Trade and customs

“Able to handle sophisticated and complex legal matters by doing extensive research and having an open mind. Able to explain legal issues to clients. They consider all aspects of the case, both for and against.” – Trade and customs

Mohd Haireez

“Responsive, thorough, very knowledgeable and practical.”

“He is smart, quick-witted and receptive. As a client, I would want my concerns to be properly addressed and resolved. Mr. Haireez has always been that problem-solver and his sharpness has given us an edge in the proceedings.”

“He is very well organised, clear and provides well-thought-through advice. His drafting is clear and accurate.”

Joseph Lee

“Strong in legal research and has the ability to analyse legal issues and come up with solutions, no matter how complex and sophisticated the matter is.”

Vi Ming Lok

“Excellent advocate and able to get the court’s ear.”

“Lok Vi Ming SC is an excellent advocate who is able to grasp the intricacies of the case quickly and is very user-friendly.”

Jonathan Muk

“Very quick response time, gives excellent legal advice and meets deadlines.”

“Jonathan has very strong legal knowledge, good insight on the client’s industry, and is able to communicate his views well.”

“Proactive and responsive; he would also reach out to me from time to time and provide me with updates to my case.”

“Fast, fast, fast. His research is comprehensive and in depth. He writes extremely well and is able to generate documented response fast.”

Clara Tay

“Clara always provides reports the client needs and quickly responds to the client’s queries and request.”

Xiao Wei Wong

“Extremely hardworking and meticulous. Xiao invested a significant amount of time in getting our claim organised and verified. She joined our case a few months back but has shown keen interest in the matter.”

The Mayer Brown arbitration team in Singapore actively work on mandates from across the region. The team was bolstered last year with the arrivals of noted international arbitration specialist Kay-Jannes Wegner from Kim & Chang and senior associate Edern Coent. Both are involved in long-standing ongoing large defence procurement and construction-related arbitrations, which complement the existing offering. Another key addition was counsel Kate Apostolova from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer.

The firm consistently handles contentious matters for energy, infrastructure, commodity finance and natural resources clients, and has a heavy concentration of renewable energy sector and gas price review disputes. Cases managed by the firm include price review arbitration, restructuring-related disputes, M&A-related disputes, shareholder disputes and investment arbitration disputes. In addition to the investment arbitration caseloads, the team is experienced in a myriad of general commercial disputes. Recently, it has handled instructions in the TMT, sports and media, fashion, hospitality, real estate and defence industries.

Key contacts include international arbitration specialists and partners Yu-Jin Tay, Paul Teo and Wegner.

Client feedback

“Mayer Brown provides excellent service to its clients. It is always up to date on the recent developments in the sector and gives a very personalised service to its clients. Matters are partner-led and they give absolute priority to clients’ needs.” – International arbitration

“They can assess and analyse the issues well and provide an out-of-the-box solution.” – International arbitration

Yu-Jin Tay

“He is extremely hands-on and understands clients’ commercial interest in the matter. He is always up to date on recent developments in the jurisdiction.”

“Creative and very articulate in addressing the issue.”

Mayer Brown and Singapore firm PK Wong Nair launched their joint law venture at the beginning of 2023, the first of its kind since 2016. This new entity marries a strong domestic litigation practice, notably in the restructuring and insolvency space, with a thriving and fully formed arbitration set. It houses more than 30 lawyers and 17 partners. The arbitration team, which is one of the largest in Singapore, works on mandates from across the region.

Leading the litigation team are directors Suresh Nair and Andrew Ang, while the key contacts for international arbitration are partners Yu-Jin Tay, Paul Teo, Kay-Jannes Wegner, and counsel Matt Shaw.

On the domestic side, the firm continues to act for Antanium Resources in a proposed restructuring of its debts. The international arbitration lawyers secured a major victory for a leading Asian LNG trader in a dispute against its upstream LNG seller. The dispute related to contested issues of force majeure invoked by the upstream LNG seller as a result of a force majeure event in the US.

Client feedback

“Solid firm with exceptional expertise, good response time, and practical, personable service.” – Bankruptcy

“They have deep knowledge of the law and good communication skills in engaging third parties. The lawyers have good negotiation skills and a very clear understanding of issues to be resolved. They are innovative solution providers.” – Bankruptcy

“Highly strategic in their approach. Practical legal solutions. Superior client focus. Cost-effective.” – Commercial and transactions

“Understands matters well and responsive.” – Commercial arbitration

“Efficient, quick thinking and commercial.” – Commercial arbitration

“Quick turnaround times are appreciated. Small team dedicated to our work means we understand each other very well. Lawyers give concise advice that is to the point.” – Labour and employment

Suresh Nair

“He understand matters well.”

“Suresh Nair is among the best insolvency practitioners in Singapore. An exceptional advocate, he is razor-sharp and precise and provides timely and practical advice in the most personable way possible.”

“Very knowledgeable and solutions-oriented.”

“Responsive, decisive, and knowledgeable.”

“Suresh has great commercial acumen, is a brilliant advocate and is extremely quick thinking. His problem-solving skills are impressive, and he consistently delivers great results for his clients.”

“Friendly, brotherly and very positive aptitude and attitude. Bonds with clients. Gives high assurance he has our interests. Technically very competent. Capable of identifying issues and providing solutions.”

Bryan Tan

“Solid advice that is practical and sound.”

Former Fullerton Law Chambers co-founder Alfred Lim set up his own boutique, Meritus Law, at the end of 2022. The firm focuses on commercial dispute resolution and corporate work, with a client base ranging from international and domestic corporations to SOEs and high-net-worth individuals. Since its inception, the disputes arm of the firm has grown two-fold, welcoming an up-and-coming director and seasoned veteran from peer firms: Ushan Premaratne from Withers KhattarWong and aviation expert Rajaram Ramiah from RHTLaw Asia. The team has litigated on a wide range of contentious matters before all levels of the Singapore courts, including the SICC, and appeared in arbitration proceedings at the SIAC. The firm frequently picks up work from international law firms and domestic counterparts when conflicts arise.

The key leaders of the disputes team are managing director Lim, and directors Premaratne and Jaime Lye.

Among the various interesting and complex matters the team is currently handling, one highlight saw the firm defending a high-net-worth individual based in Malaysia against claims from a pair of former shareholders of a company that used to operate one of the biggest private education and training campuses in Singapore and nine other countries. The matter was heard over five weeks in the Singapore High Court in 2022 and the second tranche of trial, spanning three weeks, was heard at the end of 2023.

In another example of the complex and novel instructions the team takes on, it acted for a Malaysian company that filed a claim in the SIAC against a Timor-Leste company for breach of a supply of commodities contract. The client was successful in obtaining an award against the Timor-Leste company for the sum of $5.3 million and the team is working with lawyers in Timor-Leste to enforce the arbitral award. Given that the New York Convention came into force in Timor-Leste only recently, this will be the first test case on the validity and enforceability of a foreign arbitral award in the country.

Client feedback

“Clear and concise communication to us. Good and sound advice on the next steps and what to expect. Timeline planning and cost estimation. More importantly, they provide us with prompt updates after each progress.” – Commercial and transactions

“Good at everything from preparation to performing in court.” – Commercial and transactions

“Prompt follow-ups on the case and the provision of detailed and comprehensive advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Excellent lawyers. I have followed Alfred Lim from his previous firms, where he represented me and again won against a large corporation refusing to pay invoices from my company.” – Commercial arbitration

“Good in engaging with clients and quick in response. The advice given from clients to the lawyer is always taken on board with positivity.” – Real estate

Alfred Lim

“He knows what he is dealing with.”

“I appreciate he is always listening to the client, understanding the issues.”

“Excellent attention to detail, extreme depth of knowledge, very personable. He has assembled a great team to help him.”

Jaime Lye

“Good communication and analytical skills. Judgement of case information is also accurate and sound. She also manages to think strategically and always solves the problem at hand.”

“Meticulous, responsive and dependable. Able to break down complex legal issues into an easily digestible form for clients.”

Ushan Premaratne

“Engages extremely well. Very thorough and, most important to me, is able to challenge client’s ideas.”

Boutique practice Mirchandani & Partners specialises in cross-border family law matters. The firm’s partners are also actively involved in ADR, with both being accredited and experienced mediators with the Singapore Mediation Centre and having experience with international mediation. The team is often instructed for complex litigation matters, particularly in the areas of the Hague Convention, relocation and division of foreign assets. The partners have served as expert witnesses to give either written or oral testimony on different areas of family law in Singapore. They appeared before the appellate court to argue the city-state’s very first two cases of international child abduction.

Family law specialists Poonam Mirchandani and Ashok Chugani are the key contacts. Mirchandani is the former vice-president of the Asia-Pacific chapter of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL) and the former vice-chairperson of the Singapore Law Society Family Law Practice Committee. She also sits on the IAFL Hague Convention Committee for International Child Abduction.

Client feedback

“Mirchandani & Partners do well on multiple counts. Their advice is proactive and independent. They think of the ‘children’. They are upfront about what can work under law and what cannot. They are not fee-focused and approach issues in a cost-efficient manner.” – Family and matrimonial

“Strength and integrity throughout the entire process. Ms Mirchandani understood my situation and always put in 100% when representing me. Ms Mirchandani was as invested in my case as much as I was and guided me through an extremely traumatic situation with the highest level of professionalism.” – Family and matrimonial

“I am immensely pleased with the services provided by Mirchandani & Partners. Their thorough approach to my case was evident in their meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the legal proceedings, from securing a Personal Protection Order for my children to navigating complex ancillary matters, was addressed comprehensively. The team’s commitment to thoroughness instilled confidence and played a pivotal role in the successful outcomes achieved. Furthermore, I greatly appreciate their exceptional availability throughout the entire process. The team was consistently accessible, providing timely responses to my inquiries and keeping me informed at every stage. This high level of availability not only demonstrated their commitment to my case but also fostered a sense of support during what can be a challenging legal journey. Mirchandani & Partners’ combination of thoroughness and availability truly sets them apart, making them a standout choice for anyone seeking reliable and client-focused legal representation. I am grateful for their outstanding service and would highly recommend their expertise to others in need of legal assistance.” – Family and matrimonial

“They explain very well on how to approach difficult situations and are very knowledgeable.” – Family and matrimonial

“They are fantastic in court and are superbly organised with their papers. They make their clients their priority and give us the comfort which we need during trials.” – Family and matrimonial

Ashok Chugani

“Ashok makes you feel comfortable with his empathetic approach and knowledge. He thinks for the children and hence his advice is anchored on the child’s welfare. He is always accessible, something which is remarkable given how busy he is; this is a standout quality of both Ashok and Poonam (two senior lawyers), an attribute sorely lacking in at least one of the firms I have been a client of previously.”

“Knows my story inside out.”

Poonam Mirchandani

“Her thoroughness and attention to detail throughout my case were commendable, ensuring every aspect was meticulously addressed. Poonam’s availability and prompt communication further demonstrated her dedication and support. I am truly grateful for her expertise and highly recommend Poonam for anyone in need of a dedicated and knowledgeable lawyer.”

“She takes time to listen to our concerns and has an answer to every question. Very helpful and resourceful.”

“Integrity, tenacity, strength and respect for the legal institution. Clearly, Poonam is highly respected. I wanted a lawyer with these qualities to represent me as I feel these attributes are respected by the court too.”

“She is great with making her client understand the case in length and detail and gives great comfort and confidence.”

The Singapore disputes offering of Mishcon de Reya was launched in 2020 by seasoned disputes lawyer Gavin Margetson, who previously practised at Herbert Smith Freehills. The lean team is led by Margetson and Henry Winter, a former Hogan Lovells partner. The firm is largely conflict-free and experienced in acting against major financial institutions. The team specialises in complex arbitrations across multiple sectors such as energy, fintech, international trade, hospitality and technology, media and telecommunications. The team also has a strong track record in investor-state dispute settlement and white-collar crime matters. Clients include global corporations or government entities engaged in disputes across the region and beyond. Notably, Margetson is one of the few foreign lawyers called to the Singapore bar.

Client feedback

“Superb client management. Able to dissect complicated principles of law into layperson’s language for the client to consider and give instructions.” – Bankruptcy

“It’s got a strong network. Henry Winter is a great strategic thinker and excellent with client management.” – Commercial arbitration

“They are well prepared and have presented their client’s case succinctly and effectively.” – International arbitration

Gavin Margetson

“Proactive, not reactive. Takes the initiative to solve the client’s problems and offer realistic and effective solutions within the client’s budget.”

“A clever and sensible arbitration lawyer and a sound advocate.”

“Excellent innovative solutions, commercial acumen and disciplined fees.”

“Mishcon partner Gavin Margetson is an industry leader in his field and is our run-to person for international arbitration matters.”

Henry Winter

“Good strategic thinker and excellent client management; great team member to have with litigation cases.”

Morgan Lewis Stamford – a Singapore law corporation affiliated with Morgan Lewis & Bockius – is highly regarded for its commercial disputes practice, with a strong track record of handling contentious insurance, construction and shipping matters. The firm remains highly active in international arbitration with significant experience appearing before major tribunals, including the SIAC, the HKIAC, the LCIA and the UN Commission on International Trade Law. As the city-state’s only fully integrated law firm, Morgan Lewis & Bockius has a litigation team in Singapore that can represent in the domestic courts. The past year has been a banner one for the team, with multiple wins and instructions in some of the market’s most high-profile insolvencies and shipping cases.

Wendy Tan and Pardeep Khosa are key names in the team focusing on commercial disputes. Tan is also a noted practitioner for shipping matters.

The team continues to represent PetroChina International on various issues arising out of the high-profile collapse of Hin Leong Trading. It is also defending an independent director of Eagle Hospitality Trust (EHT) in a Singapore High Court action that was launched by two investors in relation to the collapse of the EHT REIT.

Client feedback

“MLS was very astute in identifying the appropriate legal strategy and created an opening and a win for all defendants. It was successful in both the defence and subsequent mediation settlement.” – Commercial and transactions

“They identified the issues we needed to be mindful of and asked the right questions.” – Construction

Pardeep Khosa

“Pardeep is very calm, very smart and very practical in his advice. He is a fair and ethical counsel.”

“Very meticulous and always asking questions to make sure every angle is being considered.”

“He was very astute in assessing the situation and crafted an appropriate legal defence strategy against the baseless lawsuit. He was successful in our defence and obtained an appropriate settlement.”

Morrison & Foerster has a solid disputes practice that has represented clients in arbitrations and investigations across regional and global forums. Notably, it has a wide-ranging and long-standing white-collar crime, corporate investigations and anti-corruption practice. The Singapore team is fully integrated into a regional practice and it routinely collaborates with its counterparts in Tokyo, Hong Kong and China. It handles a diverse caseload of government investigations, regulatory proceedings, internal investigations, and related litigation, as well as preventive risk assessments and compliance health checks, and support for transactional matters throughout Asia.

Leading the Singapore litigation group is Daniel Levison, who is also the firm’s regional lead for its global ethics and compliance practice.

Omni Law was founded in 2020 by Oommen Mathew, whose stellar credentials form the base of his firm, which focuses on litigation and arbitration. His team handles dispute resolution matters relating to corporate and commercial issues, construction and infrastructure projects, energy and renewables, and public international law. Apart from general commercial and corporate disputes, the firm has branched out into new areas of practice such as financial technology, and it has a stable flow of counsel work. The team is called upon by numerous solicitors and lawyers across various jurisdictions.

Managing director Mathew is the key contact.

The firm continues to represent a capital infrastructure development company in its $300 million arbitration claim against a South Asian state-owned entity in respect of a concession agreement to develop and build an island. This matter involved one of the first concession agreements signed in the Maldives. The abrupt termination has created a major political and economic issue for the government which is still unresolved.

Another highlight saw the team acting for an international energy trading company on court proceedings against two banks for payment under various letters of credit (LCs). The claims against the banks for payment under the LCs involves complex points of law regarding letter of credit transactions, and relate to an important principle on when and if banks can refuse to pay on compliant LCs documents. In addition, this matter concerns complex and highly publicised litigation and insolvency proceedings following the collapse of Hin Leong Trading, and involves allegations of fraudulent trades between multiple parties.

Mathew and his team are assisting a leading integrated healthcare platform in its claims against a special purpose vehicle in respect of a call option of significant value and a loan agreement following the entry into a subscription agreement for an investment into the redevelopment of a significant freehold commercial property.

Omnilaw was founded four years ago by Oommen Mathew. The firm focuses on litigation and arbitration. The team handles dispute resolution matters relating to corporate and commercial issues, construction and infrastructure projects, energy and renewables, and public international law. Apart from general commercial and corporate disputes, the firm has branched out into new areas of practice such as financial technology, and it has a stable flow of counsel work. The team is called upon by numerous solicitors and lawyers across various jurisdictions.

Managing director Mathew is the key contact.

The firm continues to represent a capital infrastructure development company in its $145 million arbitration claim against a South Asian state-owned entity in respect of a concession agreement to develop and build an island. This matter involved one of the first concession agreements signed in the Maldives. The abrupt termination has created a major political and economic issue for the government which is still unresolved.

Client feedback

“Managed to obtain recognition for us.” – Bankruptcy

“Strategy for managing issues with cost-appropriate risks. The team works through all the possibilities and provides advice to the clients, in simple way that a layman can follow.” – Labour and employment

“They had a solid approach strategy and helped us reach our final objective.” – Labour and employment

“They are extremely good at researching the law and providing very good advice to clients.” – Real estate

Oommen Matthew

“Very straightforward. Gives the details to the client as straight as an arrow. No overcommitments.”

“Wide experience. Extensive knowledge. Excellent advocacy skills. Sharp mind.”

“Realistic and knowledgeable about processes and trial strategy.”

“He is knowledgeable.”

“Very good research, very good knowledge and very articulate.”

Oon & Bazul, Singapore’s largest conflict-free firm, is best known for its international arbitration, insolvency, shipping and commercial disputes practices. On top of its traditional strength in shipping, the firm has been frequently engaged in sectors such as energy, oil and gas, manufacturing and fintech. The firm launched its new tax practice last year and has grown its experience in cross-border fraud disputes and asset recovery. On the shipping side, the firm is noted for its expertise in the highly specialised area of mis-delivery claims and regularly acts for shipowners and bill of lading holders. The shipping practitioners also have substantial experience applying for and defending mandatory injunctions taken up by shipowners under letters of indemnity in both the Singapore and UK courts. This has led to substantial instructions in the wake of the collapse of Hin Leong Trading and Hontop Energy, and other oil trading entities.

Bazul Ashhab heads the firm alongside key disputes partners: arbitration-focused Suresh Divyanathan, head of litigation Kelly Yap, head of shipping Prakaash Silvam and insolvency head Keith Han. There are 11 disputes-focused partners on the team. Insolvency veteran Meiyen Tan departed last year for Ascendant Law.

In one notable victory, the team acted for Universal Metal Coating company in civil proceedings against a local company and its director, which were used as vehicles for fraud arising out of fraudulent shipping documents, including letters of credit. It successfully obtained final judgment for the client against the defendant.

Client feedback

“Quality advice. Innovative solutions. Personalised delivery. Quick turnaround. Reasonable fees.” – Bankruptcy

“Oon & Bazul are very responsive.” – Bankruptcy

“Oon & Bazul, particularly Keith Han, who is head of the restructuring and insolvency practice, is very commercial and turns work around very quickly” – Bankruptcy

“Extremely responsible and responsive. Nimble team with great legal understanding and commercial awareness.” – Commercial and transactions

“They provide in-depth analysis and are very commercial in their approach.” – International arbitration

“Oon & Bazul is an alternative to the big four, except that you are managed by senior partners who will see the matter through. They are also cost-effective and very solutions-focused.” – Shipping

“They provide succinct, well-researched submissions.” – Shipping

“They are timely, thorough and have guided us through the process.” – Trusts and estates

Bazul Ashhab

“He works hard for his clients, has a commercial approach to the resolution of disputes and good in-depth knowledge of the facts and the law relating to the disputes.”

“He provides lucid submissions.”

Keith Han

“Responsive, knowledgeable and personalized advice.”

“He is responsive and always meets deadlines and is willing to work to a schedule convenient to others.”

“Extremely intelligent, sharp and quick on his feet.”

“Keith has strong industry knowledge and is very commercial and practical. He is great at coming up with various innovative solutions for the clients to consider. He is an excellent communicator and manages relationships well.”

Ray Shankar

“He explains the process and answers all my questions tirelessly.”

PDLegal is traditionally recognised for its shipping and admiralty and insurance expertise. The firm regularly acts for ship owners, charterers, protection and indemnity clubs, insurers and other institutions involved in the maritime industry. Its lawyers are experienced in not only shipping disputes but also corporate commercial and civil litigation involving banking and finance, construction, employment and fraud and asset recovery. It has an India desk to assist Indian clients with Singapore disputes and Singaporean entities involved in disputes with Indian parties, as well as a China Desk. It recently launched an insurance and constructions disputes practice with the hiring of a specialist partner and opened up an office in Bangkok. In the past two years, the firm had its lawyers on record for 20 public judgments issued.

Core leaders at the firm include managing partner Peter Doraisamy, deputy managing partner Gerard Quek and senior partner Nazim Khan. Insolvency specialist Khan joined in early 2023 from UniLegal.

In one case highlight, the team continues to act for the former director of a company currently in liquidation, defending him against multimillion-dollar claims raised by the insolvent construction company and its liquidator. The dispute arose from the failed development of a luxury island resort. The matter is significant as it pertains to an examination of director’s duties in failed construction projects, whether a failed project is ipso facto proof of a conspiracy to defraud a company, and the evidential standard required for mounting claims against former directors.

Client feedback

“They were extremely compassionate and knowledgeable. I really appreciated that they wanted to resolve this without having to take the matter to court. In this matter it was very sensitive, and the advice was well received.” – Family and matrimonial

Andrew Lee

“He is a good communicator and professional.”

Gerrad Quek

“I found him very empathetic and understanding. Being that the matter was sensitive and potentially volatile, he advised me very well.”

PK Wong & Nair formed a JV with international firm Mayer Brown at the beginning of 2023. It houses an experienced team of dispute resolution and insolvency lawyers. The firm is staffed with 23 lawyers and its disputes team is led by the well-respected Suresh Nair. Its dispute resolution strengths continue to be rooted in corporate and commercial litigation, insolvency and employment disputes, with peers noting that the firm punches above its weight for complex contentious insolvency matters. This is due, in part, to having three seasoned R&I lawyers leading the team, which is bigger than some of its largest competitors in the market. Its international arbitration practice has a particular focus on regional commercial and commodities-related disputes. Other key disputes lawyers include Andrew Ang, Basil Ong, Bryan Tan, Joel Yeow and Nicole Foo.

In a high-profile matter, the team is representing British and Malayan Trustees on seeking directions of the court on a bond trustee’s powers and duties in a bond default. There was a landmark decision on the calculation of trustee votes, since there was a lack of clarity in the law pertaining to trustees’ obligations in the event of a bond default. This case brought to the forefront the issue of the scope of a trustee’s duties and liabilities during a bond default, which at the time of the application was a live issue, given the number of bond defaults in recent years.

The team continues to act for Antanium Resources in a proposed restructuring of its debts. It is also assisting the client to obtain a moratorium, and thereafter an application to convene a meeting for a scheme of arrangement to restructure the company’s debts, amounting to around $750 million. This case has raised a number of novel issues, such as the super-priority application in respect of arbitration funding which appears to be the first of its kind, as well as whether a scheme of arrangement may impose new obligations on scheme creditors – an issue that has been adjourned to be decided at the sanction hearing, if necessary.

PK Wong & Nair is a member of First Law International, an international legal network of independent law firms covering more than 80 jurisdictions across Asia Pacific, the US and the UK.

Client feedback

“The team prepared the groundwork and understood the disputes well.” – Construction

“The firm is very responsive and takes its role seriously.” – Insolvency

“Provides sound and practical advice.” – Insolvency

“I have a well-established working relationship with Suresh Nair. This firm would be my first stop because they are hungry, excellent at what they do and always on top of their game.” – Insolvency

“Attentive and professional. Competent and knowledgeable.” – Insolvency

Suresh Nair

“He has a practical understanding of issues and is able to formulate solutions.”

“Very responsive and great attention to detail.”

“Dispenses practical advice.”

“He is among the best insolvency practitioners in Singapore. An exceptional advocate, he is razor-sharp and precise and provides timely and practical advice in the most personable way possible.”

“He’s competent, knowledgeable, approachable and understanding.”

PKWA Law Practice is one of Singapore’s most respected family law firms, with an experienced team of lawyers specialising in divorce, family law, wills and probate. It has a strong track record also covering work in these practice areas: conveyancing, divorce, child custody, division of matrimonial assets, maintenance, separation, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, inheritance law, mental capacity act deputyship, adoption, and insurance. The firm has 11 full-time family law specialists led by the head of general litigation and family law, Chong Boon Lim. Other key contacts at the firm are deputy head of family law Dorothy Tan and deputy co-head of family law Jin Liang Low.

In the past the firm has won two important Court of Appeal decisions for its clients on the issue of division of matrimonial assets. One of the victories was the first case in Singapore dealing with the new Singapore law on the division of matrimonial assets. It is rare for a matrimonial law firm to be involved in Court of Appeal cases, and it secured a perfect record of two wins out of two.

Notable corporate clients include Citibank, DBS, HSBC, Maybank, OCBC and Standard Chartered Bank.

Client feedback

“I found PKWA Law to be very responsive, professional in their dealings, and liked that their fees were clearly and fixed from the outset.” – Family and matrimonial

“My lawyers, Lim Chong Boon and Dorothy Tan, are superb. They listened to my situation and explained my rights and how the law applies. They made me understand all my available options. They were able to advise me on the best strategy to resolve my divorce case. Beyond knowledge of the law and litigation experience, Mr. Lim and Ms. Tan were compassionate, friendly, and very down to earth.” – Family and matrimonial

“Very sound and able advice. Transparent fees. Professional and straight to the point.” – Family and matrimonial

Chong Boon Lim

“Highly experienced and knowledgeable on the topic and local laws. Gets to the matter and provides solid advice and direction.”

“He knows how to demonstrate both expertise and empathy. He is quite understanding and knows the right way to move forward. What I particularly like is that he is not pushy with his views but was careful to listen to my views and what I wanted and then tried to use his knowledge to achieve my goals. Sometimes, what I wanted could not be in accordance with the law and he would tell me that. In other words, he was very candid about the strengths and weaknesses of my case and did not use all-out litigation to earn fees.”

“He is focused, professional, straight to the point, honest, and empathetic, with a wealth of knowledge.”

There is unanimous respect in the market for dispute resolution boutique firm Providence Law and its managing director and senior counsel, Abraham Vergis. Its team is regularly sought out by international law firms for counsel work and is experienced in cross-border disputes. Since being established in 2012, the firm has grown to 17 Singapore qualified lawyers and is expanding its pool of foreign qualified practitioners. The firm regularly takes on briefs of significant size, complexity and value, often from global clients that are based in jurisdictions such as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the Seychelles, Australia, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, Switzerland and the US.

Apart from Vergis, other notable directors are international arbitration expert Jiaxiang Zhuo and Kenny Lau. Last year, insolvency specialist Nawaz Kamil departed for August Law Corporation, while director Lim Mingguan joined Drew & Napier.

The team acted for Discovery Key Investments in Singapore court proceedings for the recovery of millions arising from breaches of a stock secured loan financing agreement.

Client feedback

“Providence Law Asia stands out for their exemplary professionalism, precise advisory services, and unwavering availability. Their commitment to professionalism shines through in every interaction, ensuring a high standard of expertise and conduct.” – Commercial arbitration

“They are good at understanding the client’s needs and desired outcomes, explaining to the client the relevant laws in a clear and concise manner that is understood by those who are not legally trained, formulating a strategy and course of action for the case, and keeping the client up to date in a timely manner.” – Construction

Vanathi Ray

“Vanathi Ray has extensive expertise in diverse areas such as commercial and civil litigation, along with a strong background in international arbitration. Her broad range of experience allows her to navigate complex legal scenarios adeptly, whether handling commercial disputes, civil litigations, or engaging in international arbitration proceedings. Her proficiency in these fields enables her to provide comprehensive and strategic guidance to clients, drawing from a wealth of knowledge and a track record of successful resolutions. Ray’s multifaceted skill set, and deep understanding of dispute resolution make her a valuable asset in effectively resolving intricate legal matters for her clients.”

Jiaxiang Zhuo

“Patient, very good listening skills, and good communication with the client. Extremely good knowledge and experience in construction sector law.”

PRP Law is a conflict-free dispute resolution boutique that was founded by Pradeep Pillai in 2017 after he left Shook Lin & Bok. He is highly regarded by the market and the firm is best known for its expertise in complex commercial, insolvency and employment litigation. Its insolvency practice is experienced in all aspects of personal and corporate insolvency such as bankruptcy, liquidation, judicial management, individual arrangements and schemes of arrangement. The team regularly advises insolvent companies, insolvency practitioners, and creditors on all contentious and non-contentious aspects of insolvencies and corporate restructurings. It often features as independent counsel, taking on instructions as Singapore counsel for foreign and local law firms.

The disputes offering is led by managing director Pillai, and directors Joycelyn Lin and Simren Kaur Sandhu.

The team continues to act for the judicial managers of HTL International and for the liquidator of Global Sports Commerce in relation to all aspects of the winding up and the possible sale of its shares held in an Indian subsidiary.

Client feedback

“Extremely efficient, commercial, diligent and responsive. A real pleasure to work with.” – Labour and employment

Simren Kaur

“Extremely responsive, thorough, diligent and professional.”

Mid-sized law firm Quahe Woo & Palmer is led by three leading dispute resolution practitioners, Michael Palmer, Christopher Woo and Melvin Lum on the commercial disputes and insolvency side. Veteran family specialist Michelle Woodworth leads the firm’s family and matrimonial practice. Overall, the disputes team comprises about 20 lawyers, including five directors. The firm primarily focuses on complex commercial and corporate disputes, as well as construction and insolvency disputes. It is particularly active in disputes involving banking and securities, shareholder and oppression actions, high-value debt recovery, probate, defamation and employment matters. The firm has offices in Singapore, Hong Kong, and London, and it is part of the Multilaw network as its Singapore member.

In one highlight, the firm defended an investor against BTHMB Holdings, which arose from the client’s attempted acquisition of Bithumb Korea, one of South Korea’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges. In another notable matter, the team is acting for CSAPL Holdings as the defendant in ongoing enforcement proceedings against Carlsberg.

Client feedback

“Clear and timely response to queries.” – Bankruptcy

“They have an excellent dispute resolution team.” – Commercial and transactions

“Explained the pros and cons well.” – Commercial and transactions

“Professional, thoughtful, high ethical conduct with client interest in mind.” – Commercial and transactions

“Careful analysis of underlying facts in dispute; significant experience and proficiency with relevant rules/statutory provisions; critical thinking; responsive and prompt communication.” – Commercial and transactions

“They are very thorough and prompt.” – Commercial and transactions

“Commercially minded advice, responsiveness, cost.” – Commercial and transactions

“Gave good, concise advice and practical steps.” – Commercial and transactions

“Understanding of the business essence in deal-making.” – Commercial and transactions

“Practical assessment and pragmatic advice on various options to pursue, and the estimated costs and possible outcomes.” – Commercial arbitration

“Good case management. Reasoned arguments. Sound legal analysis.” – Commercial arbitration

“Good advice, defence and fair settlement of the dispute.” – Commercial arbitration

“In-depth legal knowledge, Precise legal strategy and defence, Succinct legal argument.” – Commercial arbitration

“Great legal advice on our case.” – Construction

“Providing accurate and timely updates on court proceedings and providing sound legal counsel professionally. They are also well informed in family law.” – Family and matrimonial

“Calm in handling the case based on facts and legally binding aspect, unlike the opponent barking irrationally out of context.” – Family and matrimonial

“Attentive, detailed and conscientious work performed.” – Family and matrimonial

“Able to manage clients in a professional and empathetic manner. Put strong focus on important ancillary matters beyond asset/financial division, such as children’s wellbeing and maternal mental health. Responds to clients in empathetic manner, especially in emotionally charged situations.” – Family and matrimonial

“Very knowledgeable and very responsive.” – Intellectual property

“Prompt follow-up and professional advice.” – Labour and employment

“Great service, great advice and directions.” – Labour and employment

“Excellent advice, prompt action. Safeguarded my interests.” – Labour and employment

“Personalised, private services while thinking on their feet.” – Real estate

“Systematic approach and quality advice to the issues we are facing with our neighbours.” – Real estate

“They represented us and won the case.” – Shipping

“Providing professional sound advice on the subject.” – Trusts and estates

“The lawyers at the firm are very experienced and professional.” – White-collar crime

Shiao Hong Ho

“Compassionate in listening and understanding my situation. Discussed with her team and management before coming back with a feasible solution.”

“Friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.”

Wei-Jin Lee

“Very knowledgeable on the areas he handles. Never over-promised. When topics outside his expertise are being discussed, he will provide professional advice after making efforts to check.”

Keith Lim

“Very good advice on our legal cases and very patient problem-solver.”

“Keith Lim balances legal and business perspectives extremely well. Over the years, he has always been able to understand the nature of our business activity, keep up with how our business has evolved and appreciate our key concerns and interests. His legal knowledge is always up to date and his experience across a broad assortment of issues helps him offer very timely advice to us on how we should be approaching the issues at hand. I have personally found him to be very resourceful and effective in driving the outcomes that we want as a business in the most cost-efficient manner. I also place firm trust in his assessment of merits and recoverability in cases such as the above. All in all, we have benefitted from his strong legal mind, paired with his thorough understanding of our business, and he has consistently delivered outcomes that are favorable to our business needs.”

“Patient, attentive and methodical.”

“Professional, friendly, attentive and responsive.”

“Keith is knowledgeable in real estate, construction, litigation, and mediation and is highly efficient.”

“Responsive, knowledgeable, patient. Good client relationship and professional advice given.”

Melvin Lum

“Melvin provides clear and timely legal advice and is an excellent lawyer to depend on.”

“Commercial and practical approach to solving legal issues.”

“Clear and concise. Commercially minded.”

“Very professional, knowledgeable, competent, highly helpful and responsive. The best lawyer I have met to date.”

“Very experienced and is able to identify the critical weaknesses in the other side’s position and succeed on technical knockouts. Very responsive.”

“Excellent communication skills. Clear and precise legal arguments. Able to swiftly identify key issues and address the court.”

“Melvin often goes above and beyond in delivering his work. He takes the initiative in seeking information to aid his knowledge in helping me win the case.”

Michael Palmer

“Michael is an outstanding advocate and a brilliant strategist.”

“Michael is quick to grasp the issues and provide sound practical legal solutions. He is easy to work with, very responsive and able to dissect the legal issues, no matter how complex the case is.”

“Sincere, helpful, decisive, and intelligent. He has technical competence and engaged well with his clients.”

Collin Seah

“He has good knowledge and is very responsive.”

Nathaniel Tan

“Clarity and responsive in feedback. Attentive to enquiries.”

Reuben Tan

“Clarity and transparency.”

“Reuben listens actively, provides great advice and solutions to our problem. He will also remind us of the risks involved.”

Christopher Woo

“Acute ability to plan steps ahead.”

“Very knowledgeable. A good listener and very likeable character.”

“Fast responses, innovative solutions.”

“We are in a business that is not the norm and Chris tries to understand what we do and acts in our best interests. Chris is always quick to respond and goes above and beyond meeting our deadlines.”

Michelle Woodworth

“Empathetic, compassionate, knowledgeable and good negotiator.”

Hitomi Yap

“Excellent ability to listen and understand client’s concerns and address those concerns.”

Rajah & Tann is a full-service firm with roots in dispute resolution. The firm enjoys a reputation for litigation and has the largest practice in Singapore and Southeast Asia. It is a go-to choice for many clients in complex, cross-border disputes. The firm has the highest number of senior counsels, with a total of eight in Singapore, which gives it the strongest advocacy power in the region. The court hearing statistics alone reflect the strength the firm has in the market, with the highest number of hearings in 2022, at 462 cases – a significant lead on the closest competitor. The team has also secured the highest number of SICC judgments, as of November 2023, with more than a third of the total. The firm has an excellent track record of securing landmark decisions and victories for its clients across a wide range of practice areas. Market watchers commend the firm’s expertise, particularly in sectors such as energy, financial services, shipping and construction.

Among the firm’s leading lawyers are key senior counsels Eng Beng Lee, Chuan Thye Tan, Andre Yeap, Gregory Vijayendran, Murali Pillai, and Francis Xavier, and partners Adrian Wong, Mark Cheng, Vikram Nair, Kelvin Poon, Patrick Ang, and Chuan Thye Tan, who are known for their work in commercial disputes. Insolvency, international arbitration and shipping specialist Kian Sing Toh is another notable figure, alongside IP-focused Kok Keng Lau, construction experts Chee Siong Sim and Lip San Soh, private client co-head Chandra Mohan, employment specialist Qinghui Luo and white-collar crime expert Hamidul Haq.

The Rajah & Tann team is acting for White Energy Company in the assessment of damages related to a nearly $1 billion coal dispute against PT Bayan for breaching joint venture obligations before the SICC.

Rajah & Tann has a strong regional footprint that makes it adept at multi-jurisdictional dispute resolution, with strategic firm alliances across Southeast Asia that allow it to appear in local courts in China, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia and Myanmar.

Client feedback

“Services are great. Planning and strategies are well thought through.”– Banking and financial services

“The team is competent and responsive. The lead lawyer is commercially savvy and offers practical solutions to issues.” – Bankruptcy

“Technically sound, coupled with practical commercial advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Problem-solving, legal expertise, thinking outside of the box.” – Commercial and transactions

“Strategy; responsiveness; value for money.” – Energy

“Efficient service and prompt action and good advice.” – Family and matrimonial

“Experienced, practical advice.” – Intellectual property

“The firm is very responsive. The analysis was very thorough. They have good case management skills, and their practice is very sophisticated.” – International arbitration

“They provide good legal services to their clients in dispute resolution.” – International arbitration

“Excellent access to partners, clarity of advice, cross-jurisdictional network, speed and quality of turnaround.” – Shipping

“They represent their clients in arbitration with in-depth analysis of their client’s case and efficient handling of the dispute.” – Shipping

“They provide legal documents as well as advice to process the negotiation with the opponents.” – Shipping

Patrick Ang

“Commercially savvy and offers practical solutions to issues.”

Chua Beng Chye

“Good listener, positive and good at providing construction solutions in his area of expertise.”

“Good strategic thinker, very dedicated and very professional.”

Jainil Bhandari

“Jainil has developed a very strong relationship with our company since we started working with him three years ago. He is always accessible and provides astute, clear and legally strong advice in a commercial way.”

“He is industrious, careful and efficient.”

“He provides good legal submissions.”

Jansen Chow

“Prompt responses, quick reaction, creative solutions, deep knowledge.”

Kok Keng Lau

“Very sound, and his area of specialisation fits our company’s needs well.”

Kee Lay Lian

“She is a responsible, passionate and patient lawyer who listens to understand what you require. She is also a knowledgeable lawyer who understands and does her work well.”

Kelvin Poon

“Kelvin was a solid team leader, and he had a very strong team under him, led by David Tan. Kelvin knew when to delegate but stayed informed and on top of the case.”

Adrian Wong

“Technically excellent, practical advice, smart, friendly and quick.”

Andre Yeap

“Andre is an experienced lawyer. He listened to us and provided an effective strategy that landed us a favourable result.”

Established in 2016, RevLaw is a conflict-free dispute resolution practice with particular expertise in commercial litigation, contentious employment matters and insolvency. The firm comprises seven fee earners and is led by managing director Sui Tong Chua and director Yik Wee Liew, who are particularly experienced in insolvency and employment disputes. The experienced team have appeared before all levels of Singapore courts and numerous tribunals. Its regular clients include banks, insurers, private equity funds, contractors, hotel owners and insolvency practitioners.

In a recent highlight, the team acted for ArcelorMittal in Singapore proceedings to enforce an arbitration award against entities associated with the Liberty Steel group.

Client feedback

“They provide sound advice from both the legal perspective as well as pragmatic commercial advice.” – Commercial and transactions

Yik Wee Liew

“He takes the time to understand the clients and provide sound legal advice and also practical commercial solutions to help resolve the issues.”

RHTLaw Asia is known for commercial disputes work, including claims in court and domestic and international arbitration proceedings. The firm is also active in matrimonial disputes and has a strong criminal litigation team.

Core members of the dispute resolution leadership include partners Nandakumar Renganathan, Sharon Chong and Anil Changaroth. Senior counsel Leslie Chew acts a senior consultant on the team.

Renganathan and his team continue to act for two publicly listed Singapore companies and a former political office holder of a foreign country in a claim for defamation against a local academic who writes on corporate governance issues. The novelty of this matter is that there are no reported case precedents on the appropriate damages to be awarded for listed companies in a defamation proceeding.

RPC Premier Law is led by three disputes partners who share decades of local litigation experience. The firm is best known for complex commercial and civil disputes, banking and finance disputes, contentious IP matters, professional defence and dispute resolution in regulatory matters. Its contentious industry expertise covers fintech, technology, media, insurance, energy and transportation. The firm has adopted a strategy to not represent large banks or other financial institutions, making it a popular choice for referrals from other full-service firms. The firm has handled disputes under a variety of arbitral rules in forums around the world and nearly all its domestic court matters are at the High Court level or above.

The key individuals are international arbitration and disputes specialists Navin Joseph Lobo, Swee Siang Boey and Yuankai Lin, and IP expert Nicholas Lauw.

In a contentious commercial highlight, the team acted for Indonesian company PT Pipit Mutiara Indah, its director and Singapore investment company QL Mutiara to obtain an anti-suit injunction in the Singapore courts to restrain Indonesian court proceedings that were commenced to circumvent the arbitration clause in a joint venture agreement.

Client feedback

“The lawyers provide a very detailed consultation and patiently answer questions.” – Banking and financial services

“Prompt service, very knowledgeable, they won the case for me.” – Commercial arbitration

“We appreciate their professional knowledge, prompt replies and fair fees.” – Commercial arbitration

“Excellent at frankly, everything! Practical, pragmatic, precise, informed accurate and effective.” – Intellectual property

“RPC is responsive and practical.” – Trusts and estates

Swee Siang Boey

“Exceptional lawyer. Knowledgeable, thoughtful, pragmatic, aggressive when necessary. Extremely well informed.”

“Knowledgeable, prompt, professional and intelligent.”

“Richly experienced, magnificent communications, and top-class planning.”

“He is skilled, knowledgeable, pragmatic, empathetic, and an extremely good lawyer!”

Navin Joseph Lobo

“Navin is client-centric and decisive. His attention to detail and grasp of complex legal issues is exceptional. He is an effective trial lawyer and a brilliant problem-solver.”

Lin Yuankai

“Very attentive and he provides detailed information.”

Selvam is a boutique law firm with a litigation and arbitration practice that specialises in commercial and transaction, construction and family matters. It is experienced in cross-border disputes that rope in the expertise of its Duane Morris network offices in Shanghai, Vietnam, Myanmar and New York. The Selvam litigators act in local and international cases in the Singapore courts and are experienced in handling international commercial arbitrations under the major international arbitration conventions and rule systems, such as the SIAC and ICC rules. The firm has a strong reputation for contentious construction matters, where it acts for Korean and Japanese construction companies. It is also active in the oil and gas industry, with its international disputes practice covering Vietnam, Myanmar and Mexico. The team has grown its ranks in the past few years and now comprises 11 qualified lawyers and four directors.

Sarbjit Singh Chopra is a key name in the firm’s dispute resolution team, with expertise in commercial disputes, international arbitration, construction and family law. Other active lawyers to note include insolvency specialist Daniel Soo, Ramiro Rodriguez, Clement Tan and Priyank Srivastava.

The firm successfully represented a Korean logistics and shipping company on its legal action against two former employees and a nominee director of a third-party company, Asia One. The client is alleging the two ex-workers had embezzled various sums of money from the client during their employment tenure and had transferred some to Asia One. The key question in this case is whether the nominee director of Asia One should be liable for the sums transferred to his entity even though he had no knowledge of the transactions.

On the insolvency front, the team advised the directors of a Singapore cosmetics company in relation to an upcoming application by the company to be placed in judicial management and advised them in negotiations with the creditors of the company on the restructuring of the company’s outstanding loans. Additionally, it acted for Woori Bank and Shinhan Bank in relation to an extension of credit to Agritrade. This matter was notably complex because it involved the judicial management of a large commodity company with international subsidiaries and there were allegations of fraud.

In 2011, Duane Morris and Singapore-based Selvam entered into the first US-Singapore joint law venture to be approved by the city-state to leverage Selvam’s corporate practice across Asia. However, Selvam handles all Singapore law disputes matters as an independent entity, as joint law ventures restrict practice areas and litigation is not allowed.

Setia Law is a new specialist dispute resolution firm that was launched in 2023 by former Rajah & Tann partner Danny Ong. Its core areas of focus are dispute resolution, restructuring and insolvency, fraud, financial crimes and investigations, and international enforcement and asset recovery. The one year-old firm houses 13 experienced disputes practitioners and continues to grow.

Managing director Ong has an enviable track record of leading on multiple high-stakes and complex cross-border disputes and investigations over the past two decades. He is known for his contentious insolvency acumen, as well as being a go-to litigator for international battles and investigations. He is a pioneer in the cutting-edge blockchain and digital assets space, handling disputes, managing crises and advising distressed crypto investment platforms. He recently led the team that successfully prosecuted the first cryptocurrency claim before the SICC.

Alongside Ong is director Yam Wern-Jhien, a financial services and technology disputes specialist. He is also a former Rajah & Tann partner. He is at the forefront of blockchain and cryptocurrency-related litigation in Singapore, with a substantial number of these mandates under his belt. He additionally has particular expertise in fraud and asset recovery. He has obtained multiple freezing and proprietary injunctions in aid of cross-border asset recovery efforts, including the first known instance of the grant of a proprietary injunction over cryptocurrencies in Singapore.

Sharpe & Jagger is a boutique disputes firm best known for its insurance practice and it acts for all stakeholders in this sector. The firm was founded by Justyn Jagger and Samuel Sharpe, who have broad experience in international firms handling various cross-border matters. The firm is also known for its commercial and transactions and contentious employment practices. The firm advises on trade and investment disputes, restraint of trade disputes, debt collection and corporate defence matters. In addition to Jagger and Sharpe, two other lawyers to note are Stephen Cheong and Sinyee Ong. The team is qualified to practise the laws of Singapore, England and Wales, New York, the Republic of Ireland and Western Australia.

Recent key clients include Banyan Tree, Luckin Coffee, MSIG, QBE Insurance, the financiers of Rhodium Resources and Syngenta.

Eponymous disputes boutique Shobna Chandran was launched in 2023 by the former Tan Rajah & Cheah counsel and Dentons Rodyk & Davidson partner. It has a team of advocates specialising in appellate advocacy, instructed trial briefs and international arbitration matters. In addition to Singapore court work, the lawyers are adept at cross-border work and arbitration cases with a focus on South Asia and Southeast Asia.

In a recent highlight, with elements spanning multiple borders, Chandran successfully fought and won heavily contested court proceedings to wind up AAG for a debt of $250 million under the GMRA form of contract. She has also been instructed by Deutsche Bank to defend against a claim by 13 plaintiffs that an offering circular was issued with the intention that the statements contained would be acted upon by the plaintiffs, thereby inducing them to subscribe for and purchase 13 senior fixed rate notes, which resulted in their loss and damage.

Client feedback

“She takes a collaborative approach to working together, as opposed to a usual competitive approach for some firms.” – International arbitration

Shobna Chandran

“Thorough, sharp and knowledgeable.”

“Shobna is accessible at all times whenever we have filing deadlines. She also discusses deadlines from her end together with us, her instructing counsel, to manage expectations.”

Shook Lin & Bok is known for its work in complex, high-profile insolvency matters, commercial disputes, construction disputes and alternative dispute resolution. The firm is also active in fields such as banking, shipping, real estate and oil and gas. It is particularly recognised for its niche expertise in banking and financial disputes, including advising on financial product claims, restitutionary claims, security enforcement and regulatory investigation. Its insolvency practice is widely known by market observers, having played leading roles in the country’s most high-profile matters, acting for Hin Leong, Envy Global Trading, Pacific International Line, Gult Petrochem and Zenrock. Additionally, it has been involved in a number of “first” restructuring deals, such as the first pre-packaged scheme of arrangement to the first foreign company to be placed under judicial management in Singapore. The firm has long-standing and dedicated China and India practices.

David Chan and senior counsel Sarjit Singh Gill are key contacts in the firm’s disputes team and were the lead partners on a number of the highlighted cases during the research period. Other key names at the group include Yeow Khoon Ng, Probin Dass, construction specialist Joseph Tay, shipping expert Moses Lin and IP and technology specialist Jevon Louis.

In commercial disputes, the firm is acting for HSBC against the ex-directors and ex-employees of Hin Leong Trading in claims of fraudulent misrepresentation, conspiracy by unlawful means, procurement of breach of contract and negligent misrepresentation. It has also been instructed by the Independent Panel of the Aljunied-Hougang Town Council in an action filed on behalf of the town council against its current members and elected members of parliament over alleged improper payments.

On the international arbitration front, the team successfully represented a domestic Singaporean bank in a complex arbitration claim against credit insurers. Involving cross-border elements, the firm is also assisting the Hong Kong subsidiary of a listed Chinese company to reclaim a $10 million deposit placed with a Seychelles-incorporated company in relation to an infrastructure project in Indonesia.

In a seminal instruction, team is representing KPMG Services as the liquidators of the Envy Group of Companies. The legal proceedings commenced by the clients involve several complex issues of law and fact and will probably set important precedents for the recovery of investors’ funds in fraudulent schemes. The suit against the alleged perpetrators of the fraud involves causes of action founded on, inter alia, the various statutory insolvency clawback provisions. Similar issues are engaged in the suit against the employees and originating application against the over-withdrawn investor. A central issue in each of the proceedings is whether the liquidators are entitled to recover or clawback over-withdrawn sums. This is a novel issue in Singapore law and the court’s decision will shape the legal landscape in relation to Ponzi schemes and other fraudulent entities for creditors, debtors and insolvency professionals alike.

The intellectual property litigation team, led by Louis, acted for Inzign as the defendant in a copyright infringement case brought by Siemens Industry Software. The case is the first time a Singapore court has had to consider the issues involved for a case of copyright infringement of software where the liability of the infringer arises due to vicarious liability.

On the shipping side, Chan and his team have been instructed by Teekay Group of companies for its battle against IM Skaugen SE and its Singapore subsidiary in relation to charges of unpaid hire and damages for repudiation of charterparties of vessels. This case is significant because the Singapore High Court’s decision in a previous matter sheds light on the new Section 211B moratorium provision of the Companies Act. In particular, it addresses whether an applicant for a moratorium must show evidence of support from the company’s creditors for the intended scheme of arrangement.

Client feedback

“Their advice has been consistent over how the courts are likely to interpret the facts of the case.” – Banking and financial services

Probin Dass

“Listens well. Deliberates carefully before offering advice.”

US-headquartered Sidley Austin has staked out a sizeable footprint in the region for its international arbitration, corporate investigations and anti-corruption specialisms. The firm features regularly in regional commercial and investor-state arbitration across multiple industries, such as construction, energy, financial services, mining, public utilities and real estate. The firm’s Singapore white-collar crime team is fully dedicated to this practice and has a deep knowledge of local anti-corruption laws. Its lawyers have handled investigations in jurisdictions across the region. Notably, Sidley Austin is one of a handful of international law firms permitted to practise local law.

Partners Tai-Heng Cheng, Friven Yeoh and Jennifer Lim are the key contact for disputes work in Singapore. Cheng and Yeoh are the co-heads of the firm’s global arbitration, trade and advocacy practice. The white-collar defence and investigations practice is led by partners Yuet Ming Tham and Shu Min Ho.

One high-profile highlight was the firm securing a victory for I-Mab Biopharma in a multi-year-long, hard fought, nine-figure sum international arbitration against Tracon Pharmaceuticals.

Client feedback

“Good at connecting the dots with trade, sanctions, international arbitration and regulatory advice.” – International arbitration

“Practical advice, friendly and to-the-point.” – White-collar crime

Yuet Ming Tham

“Good at keeping in touch and updating you on regulatory trends even if there is no business engagement with Sidley. Relationship management is done very well. Yuet also gives very practical advice and insight.”

Silvester Legal was founded in 2018 by disputes practitioner Walter Silvester and has grown from just him to a team of five fee earners. It specialises in shareholder disputes. Over the past five years, the firm has served almost 500 clients in over 10 areas of expertise. Managing director and head of commercial litigation Silvester is the key contact for disputes. Director and commercial disputes specialist Walter Alexander is also a name to note.

The minority shareholder in a local employment company has instructed the team on its claim against the majority shareholders and the company. This is a curious minority oppression case because the client is essentially the whistleblower but was reluctant to report the company and directors, fearing a devaluation of his shares. In an employment case, the team is acting for the defendant in a long-running case regarding the enforcement of a judgment in Japan. The client is now prosecuting the enforcement of the judgment against a director who is overseas and will file a suit personally against this director soon. One important issue under employment law that was discussed is whether the employment of an employee is considered terminated by the employer if the employee was forced to submit his resignation letter. Silvester Legal was successful in the counterclaim for its client. The team scored another win for an injured expatriate employee who made a personal injury claim against a government-linked company after he suffered serious injury at the worksite of the defendant. The client received a settlement offer that he was happy with, including full salary and benefits for when he was unable to work. The legal team leveraged the fact that neither defendant was inclined to go to court and expose the poor safety standards which led to the injury.

Client feedback

“They managed the facts of the case well and provided options as necessary. Silvester is extremely well-learned and knows the law confidently, which aided my case.” – Commercial and transactions

“They secured my objective of achieving peace to stop the counterparty from making baseless allegations.” – Commercial and transactions

“They did well in getting the right details and facts as this is a High Court case where every piece of evidence is necessary. Proper research was done and I was even surprised when they had evidence that I did not have myself.” – Commercial and transactions

Siraj Aziz

“He understands the situation and works very hard for justice to be done. He is hard-working and works day and night to meet the deadline.”

Walter Silvest

“He is empathic aernd communicates well.”

“He listens and cares about the case. Then he offers a few options. He was able to help me achieve my objective without making me feel overstretched in effort, time and money.”

Stephenson Harwood Singapore Alliance is the formal law alliance between Virtus Law and Stephenson Harwood. The firm is well known for its strong and extensive shipping practice, which includes insolvency, maritime and international trade. The dispute resolution team of nine partners and 10 other fee earners advise on Singapore litigation and international law matters. Apart from its shipping sector strength, the team is active in commercial litigation, contentious employment matters and international arbitration.

The key contacts for local disputes are directors Daryll Ng, Terence Seah and Lauren Tang. The international arbitration partners include Ng, Chris Bailey, John Simpson and Michelle Yong.

In a multi-jurisdictional highlight, the firm represented two finance companies in Singapore High Court proceedings against PetroChina International and an individual for breach of contract, unjust enrichment, misrepresentation, and conspiracy, with damages amounting to just under $20 million.

The dispute resolution group at Tan Rajah & Cheah is led by acclaimed senior counsel Chelva Rajah. He is an active court lawyer, arbitration counsel of choice, former judicial commissioner, arbitrator and judge of the Qatar International Court since 2011. The firm is best known for its commercial litigation prowess and contentious family law expertise, and is a seasoned player in high stakes, long-running and complex litigations. It is also active in insolvency, international arbitration and white-collar crime.

Rajah leads an experienced team that includes Eusuff Ali, Moiz Haider Sithawalla, Megan Chia, and family law veteran Imran Khwaja. Consultant and insurance litigation and investigations specialist Nagaraja B Rao recently joined the team from Australian firm Emerald Law.

In one high-profile highlight, the government of Malaysia has instructed Rajah, Khwaja and their team for the recovery of seized 1MDB assets in Singapore. This is a very highly publicised matter, with the Malaysian government trusting the firm to represent them in legal proceedings to recover the monies embezzled. In another case, the team is acting for the plaintiff, Innovative Corporation, in a complex claim against an errant director and his company for appropriating the client’s maturing business opportunity. The outcome of the case is significant, given the substantial amounts involved and the High Court’s holdings on several key areas as the procedure of taking of accounts of profits, disclosure in such proceedings, expert’s duties, causation for account of profits and equitable allowance.

Client feedback

“Tan Rajah & Cheah is known for its diverse team of legal professionals who specialise in various practice areas, including corporate law, dispute resolution, employment law, intellectual property, and more. This breadth of expertise allows the firm to provide comprehensive legal services to clients across different industries.” – Commercial and transactions

“They know what the client wants and needs – and they deliver. They are a gentleman’s firm, with strong values enshrined in the way they deal with everything. They have a strong matrimonial practice that uses therapeutic justice as its cornerstone.” – Commercial arbitration

“Tan Rajah & Cheah have been very clear, strategic and insightful in their counsel, often grounding their counsel in applicable case laws and strongly considering the human conflict aspects in relation to any decision to be made.” – Family and matrimonial

“The excellent advice they provide and the legal process they set out in order to achieve the hoped-for outcome.” – International arbitration

“They are great litigators, but very measured, commercial and practical, not pursuing litigation at any cost. Often negotiation and mediation are a better way forward. They are a very classy act.” – Labour and employment

“In-depth and personal advice protecting our interests.” – Real estate

“Tip-top service with stellar intellectual ability.” – White-collar crime

Eusuff Ali

“Listening ear, analytical and very empathic at the same time.”

Megan Chia

“She is perfect, and she has an excellent human touch. She empathises.”

“Top-draw legal acumen, diligent and responsive.”

Sudhershen Hariram

“For matrimonial matters, including those of varying levels of acrimony, Sudhershen always provides children-centric counsel that is focused on de-escalation, finding quick and amicable resolutions, and, where possible, adopting a collaborative stance on matters. He often reminds me to always consider the longer-term wellbeing of the children and their interests, and I find that to be a critical strength in his professionalism. On that note, he also actively discourages the use of caustic language, having a litigious approach to matters (if matters could be bilaterally resolved), or having a provocative or inflammatory tone in communications with other parties, regardless of the acrimony. He demonstrates a very strong understanding of issues, trends and case law. Further, in all my communications with him throughout the years, he continues to be highly respectful of other lawyers. I have no qualms recommending friends and acquaintances undergoing matrimonial matters to him for counsel.”

“He prioritises what is best for his client and the family and does not let them get trapped in all that emotion. He is intelligent, succinct and practical.”

“Top-quality legal advice.”

“Very good lawyer. Knows exactly the advice you need and puts it very simply. Does not waste time and costs in arguing unimportant points.”

“He is a lawyer who prioritises what is best for you and your family in spite of all the emotion. He is intelligent, succinct and practical.”

Chelva Rajah

“Chelva Rajah is a distinguished lawyer and senior counsel, widely known for his exceptional legal acumen and unwavering commitment to justice. With an illustrious career spanning many years, Rajah has rightfully earned a reputation for his meticulous approach to legal proceedings and his ability to navigate complex cases with precision. Serving with integrity and ethical practice, he is a respected figure in the legal community, often providing mentorship to aspiring lawyers. His dedication to pro bono work and his contributions to the development of legal education further underscore his positive impact on both the legal profession and society at large.”

Moiz Haider Sithawalla

“Excellent listener, very good summarizer. Sharp in the analysis of the matter at hand and in setting out the course of action. Excellent delivery in both word and speech.”

“Communicated well. Very understanding. Listens. Gives very sensible, commercial advice.”

TSMP Law Corporation is prominent on significant commercial, international arbitration and construction mandates. Its commercial litigation team focuses on complex boardroom, shareholder and investment disputes. The firm is regularly sought after for the largest and most intricate matters in both established and developing fields and has an impressive track record. It is also growing its reputation for intellectual property and trust practice. The firm has a dedicated Korea desk.

The practice is driven by senior counsels Thio Shen Yi and Jeffrey Chan Wah Teck. Other key names include head of construction Derek Loh, head of litigation Melvin Chan, head of employment Ian Lim, private wealth and trusts specialist Kelvin Koh and IP and TMT expert Pei Ching Ong. The firm also has, as consultants, Hans Tijo, who has written books on company, securities and trust law, as well as Tang Hang Wu, who is a renowned expert on equity and trusts.

The firm acted for Luckin Coffee in a dispute with two of its Malaysian investors over fraudulent accounting statements.

The group’s list of clients includes Citibank, DHL, Disney, Emerson, Facebook, GS Engineering & Construction, IBM, KPMG, Lippo Group, PT Tempo Scan Pacific, Twitter and YTL Power Seraya.

Client feedback

“They provided detailed research into case law and are responsive to client needs.” – Commercial and transactions

“Good communication, effectively multilingual. Gives relevant advice suitable for each situation with an honesty that is very ethics based.” – Commercial and transactions

“Responsive, incisive, decisive.” – Commercial and transactions

“Technically savvy and good time and resource management.” – Commercial arbitration

“Efficient case management and precise advice.” – Commercial arbitration

“They are able to identify and set out clearly the poor performance, breaches of contracts, rectifications and framing of legal actions needed.” – Real estate

Kelvin Koh

“Very effective in both Mandarin and English, he has good knowledge. He takes time to research and understand in depth.”

“Honest and piercing advice. Knows when to act but also when to hold back.”

“Steely, insightful, responsive.”

Derek Loh

“Experienced, responsive and clear.”

“Despite his seniority in the company, Derek is always very engaging in the cases and ensures his people are on top of things. He is someone we can trust, and he is usually fair in charging his fees.”

Nanthini Vijayakumar

“Detailed and positive. Thinks strategically.”

Withers KhattarWong’s dispute resolution practice often works with different offices across the Asia-Pacific region, providing seamless cross-border disputes advice. It acts for a wide range of international clients including corporate entities and directors, high-net-worth individuals and their businesses, governments and government agencies, manufacturers, banks, broker-dealers and trust companies. The firm is particularly known for private capital, employment, family and matrimonial, white-collar and tax-related disputes. Peers acknowledge the prominence and coverage of its fully fledged and dedicated white-collar crime group. Its global dispute resolution practice comprises more than 160 lawyers around the world and they are handling a claims portfolio of more than $10 billion.

Its experienced litigators include senior counsel Deborah Barker, criminal lawyer Shashi Nathan, financial services disputes lawyer Chenthil Kumarasingam, employment specialist Amarjit Kaur, international arbitration experts Shaun Leong, Ushan Premaratne and Spring Tan, restructuring and insolvency specialist Justin Yip, family and matrimonial expert Ivan Cheong, and Sharon Lin, an insurance director with a focus on professional indemnity matters.

In a seminal and high-profile victory, the firm acted for an NFT investor in Singapore’s first-ever written judgment on NFTs, and in the world’s first-ever successful worldwide proprietary injunction over an NFT on the blockchain. This marked a massive triumph for NFT investors around the globe, as a court of law has recognised the protection of NFT investor rights. In another NFT case, the firm represented NFT marketplace Mintable in preserving the company’s funds against an alleged coup staged by several directors and key officers.

Nathan and his team represented How Soo Fong, one of the three persons arrested for allegedly being involved in a multimillion-dollar gold investment scam. In another white-collar crime matter, the team acted for four individuals who are involved in the investigations relating to the Corrupt Practices Investigations Bureau probe into Singapore’s Transport Minister.

The Withers team is leading the largest contingent of investors affected by the Credit Suisse AT1 bond crisis to pursue investor treaty claims under international investment law against the state of Switzerland. It is also acting for investors across the region seeking recourse against FTX.

The global investors of Luna tokens and TerraUSD stablecoins have instructed the firm in a critical dispute arising from the crypto collapse that many perceive to have kickstarted the crypto winter. This is a class action arbitration arising from the famous collapse of stablecoin TerraUSD and its sister coin, Luna. The client is a group of more than 100 investors globally claiming against Terraform Labs in relation to losses suffered from the collapse.

The insolvency team has been busy acting for the liquidators, KPMG, in all aspects of the high-profile attempted restructuring and subsequent insolvency of ZenRock.

Key clients include Estee Lauder Cosmetics, HSBC, Kaddra, Luxasia, Multimedia Engineering, United Overseas Bank and VIVA International Trust.

Client feedback

“Timely and honest advice. Sensible commercial advice.” – Commercial arbitration

“A proficient legal expert providing in-depth explanations to clients.” – Commercial arbitration

“Sound and pragmatic advice.” – Construction

“Extremely knowledgeable and responsive.” – Family and matrimonial

“A good team of lawyers. They are systematic and objective in their advice. They have also displayed empathy on many occasions.” – Family and matrimonial

Shaun Leong

“Shaun Leong is at the top of his game when it comes to international arbitration and resolving highly complex cross-border disputes. He has an exceptional ability to grasp complicated matters and to distill key issues with elegance. Above all, he has a peerless mind when it comes to developing effective cross-border strategies for disputes involving the highest stakes across various jurisdictions. A tenacious and fearless fighter you would want in your corner. His team never fails to provide best-in-class service.”

“Shaun Leong is a star in the world of international arbitration. He has a brilliant tactical mind and has achieved outstanding successes in the most cutting-edge and complex disputes. Shaun is a highly creative problem-solver, and views issues from all sides. He is an effective practitioner and his ability to reconcile opposing views and deploy them in advancing our interest is one of his greatest strengths.”

“Shaun Leong is an outstanding lawyer in the field of cross-border commercial disputes and international arbitration and a top name for cutting-edge international work. He has a razor-sharp mind and is incredibly impressive when it comes to navigating complex points of law. He has incredible foresight and an uncanny ability to anticipate and counter the opponent’s moves and is very good at developing effective strategies for complex matters. He has an outstanding track record and a fantastic ability to quickly grasp the clients’ perspective and understand their commercial issues. He scores highly for excellence in complex cross border disputes.”

“Shaun Leong is a tenacious and fearless lawyer. He is a gifted advocate with the ability to distill the most complex facts in a dispute into simple, attractive and persuasive argument. A top legal mind with an outstanding sense of strategy. He is incredibly resilient and persistent, someone who never gives up, and has a keen eye on the bigger picture, bringing creative and effective insights to the case and the dispute strategy. He always brings high quality to his work and is someone you want in your corner for disputes of the highest stakes.”

“Shaun Leong is an extremely talented disputes lawyer with excellent analytical skills and a deep understanding of the law. A leading name in emerging technology disputes, he is legally creative while being commercially sensitive. He has substantial experience in international arbitration and excels in high-stakes cross-border disputes. He can discern commercial issues very quickly and can provide tailor-made legal solutions that are practical to implement from a business perspective.”

“He possesses a strong understanding of legal complexities, effective communication skills, and a talent for offering comprehensive explanations. His excellence lies in clarifying intricate legal concepts for clients, ensuring clarity and understanding.”

“Shaun Leong is our go-to disputes lawyer in Singapore. He consistently demonstrates high quality in his work and is a commercially minded problem-solver with the ability to find practical solutions to complex issues in our business. His strategic instincts are top-notch and is highly skilled at developing and deploying effective strategies to resolve high-stakes disputes.”

Ivan Cheong

“He has a good grasp of the law. He presents practical and workable solutions.”

Shaun Ho

“Knowledgeable and responsive.”

Chenthil Kumarasingam

“Very logical and precise. Timely advice. Good at balancing risk and reward.”

Sharon Lin

“Sound knowledge and advice on contractual matters.”

Shriveena Naidu

“She is very responsive and provides a listening ear whenever required. She is approachable and is able to manage client’s emotions well.”

Jeremy Pereira

“Attentive and patient.”

WongPartnership is the clients’ choice for big-ticket domestic and cross-border disputes, with top-tier expertise from teams led by no fewer than 160 lawyers, including 14 disputes-dedicated partners and four senior counsels. The group’s offering encompasses all areas, including commercial disputes, construction, international arbitration and insolvency matters. Its work cuts across numerous sectors including energy, entertainment, hospitality, infrastructure, medical, natural resources, telecommunications, transport and trade. The firm is well positioned to act on multi-jurisdictional matters, backed by its extensive integrated regional practices in Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, India, China, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Despite the departure of leading construction practitioner Christopher Chuah last year, the firm maintains the largest construction practice in the jurisdiction and has a deep bench of senior construction specialists.

Commercial disputes and international arbitration experts Chee Meng Tan and Sean Yu Chou, construction specialists Peng Cheng Tay and Ian De Vaz, corporate and commercial disputes co-heads Joy Tan and Hock Keng Chan, and insolvency expert Manoj Sandrasegara are among the key figures in the firm. Senior counsel Swee Yen Koh and Smitha Menon are other active lawyers in commercial and corporate disputes, and international arbitration. Koh was appointed SC in 2022, the youngest female active court practitioner to receive this appointment.

The firm defended OCBC, one of the largest creditors on the Hin Leong Trading (HLT) insolvency, against a lawsuit from a counterparty of HLT for payment under a letter of credit issued by the client to the counterparty on the instructions of HLT.

Client feedback

“Clear, cohesive and consistent defence strategy from beginning to end, effective executive of strategies and plans, prompt, engaging and value-adding advisory, regular and crystal-clear communication and follow-ups, high energy support all the way. The team, who were always prepared, won trust, credibility and was highly dependable.” – Banking and financial services

“Very strong team well versed in shipping/trade and litigation. Skill in presenting the legal and commercial narratives, which won a dismissal of the suit against us.” – Banking and financial services

“They are responsive to our needs and are able to achieve our objectives within our budget and on time.” – Commercial and transactions

“Giving professional advice on how to proceed with the case.” – Commercial and transactions

“Very timely, detailed and professional in their approach to issues.” – Commercial and transactions

“Able to provide a few options for the management team to consider and advise the management of the best option available.” – Commercial and transactions

“Professional.” – Commercial and transactions

“Lead partner Wendy Lin is the best lawyer I have ever dealt with – absolutely impressive and in a class of her own. On top of that, she is supported by a strong team with deep strengths across the bench.” – Commercial and transactions

“The team demonstrated an in-depth understanding of the law, ensuring every aspect was meticulously handled. Their proactive approach, attention to detail and timely communication made the process seamless. I highly commend their professionalism and would confidently recommend their services for any commercial transaction.” – Commercial and transactions

“Research, fact checking and case preparation.” – Commercial arbitration

“Excellent advocacy.” – Commercial arbitration

“Very responsive – pragmatic advice.” – Commercial arbitration

“Excellent advocacy for their clients.” – Commercial arbitration

“They excel in handling my case and for the arbitration in high court.” – Commercial arbitration

“Prompt response with detailed and accurate advice and feedback on matters put forward by the liquidators. Constant and close follow-up.” – Construction

“Swift turnaround and response time; clear and succinct advice that addresses the crux of our concerns.” – Construction

“WongPartnership takes the client’s interests into consideration and provides wise counsel in all matters ranging from front-end work to construction disputes.” – Construction

“They have been giving us good advice in our case and had been very attentive in handing the case.” – Construction

“Thorough, with prudent strategy.” – Construction

“WongPartnership, especially the partner on the matter, Ms Lesley Tan, understood our commercial needs and provided practical advice.” – Construction

“Well prepared and good client service.” – Construction

“Being meticulous overall and thinking about the client’s interest.” – Construction

“WongPartnership always has an eye on composing a best-fit team for the case. Their services are very timely and professional and they try to accommodate as much as possible of the specific needs of their client in a particular case.” – International arbitration

“Innovative, tenacious, thorough. Very strong work ethics and client service standards.” – International arbitration

“The lead partner, Wendy Lin, is in a class of her own, combining outstanding advocacy skills with sharp tactical acumen, killer instincts and an incredible mind for the facts and the law. Simply superb. Furthermore, she is supported by an impressive team; their bench strength is unrivalled.” – International arbitration

“Responsive, pleasant to deal with, practical.” – Labour and employment

“It was a short notice on the retrenchment documentations that WongPartnership needed to work on. I was impressed by the fast turnaround and the professionalism displayed by the counsel.” – Labour and employment

“Strong in shipping and litigation.” – Shipping

“Wong Partnership takes my instruction carefully and gives good and achievable suggestions for my case.” – White-collar crime

“WongPartnership provides clear, concise and tailor-made solutions to the issues we bring to them. They deliver personalised service and are experts in problem solving and thinking out of the box.” – White-collar crime

“Do well in all the aspects for defence.” – White-collar crime

Andrea Ang

“Great attention to detail and speed of execution.”

Chang Qi-Yang

“Qi-Yang is professional and he communicates clearly in terms of expectations, deliverables, timeline, etc. He goes the extra mile to deliver even over weekends, despite the short notice, and he understands the impact it brings to the client’s businesses. Without asking, he gives advice and cautions client where he sees areas that may possibly gone wrong.”

Josephine Choo

“She is a good listener and able to understand the client’s need. She also has a wide spectrum of legal and industrial knowledge and so can advise her client appropriately.”

Sean Chou

“Excellent advocate and arbitrator.”

Christopher Chuah

“His analysis and strategic thinking are strong.”

Lesley Fu

“Lesley is willing to go the extra mile. She has been a very responsive and helpful aid to our legal woes and often delivers replies promptly even if she has to work through tight timelines.”

Melanie Ho

“Good listener, very cautious in every step before replying to situation. She put the client at ease in the discussion.”

Swee Yen Koh

“Very tenacious advocate.”

Hwai Bin Lee

“Responsive, professional, direct. Catches on to the issues very quickly, listens and addresses the company’s concerns well.”

Eden Li

“Responsive. Pragmatic advice.”

“Eden has excellent communication skills, attention to detail, analytical thinking and a strong commitment to client advocacy.”

ChunLong Lin

“Excellent.”

“Always very helpful.”

Wendy Lin

“Thorough, professional and decisive.”

“Wendy is a superb litigator and cross-examiner and really just the complete package. She has the killer instinct, the advocacy skills, the determination and drive, and the ability to marshal copious amounts of facts and law as well. Simply impressive.”

Wai King Ng

“Professional, deep knowledge, good client management, solutions-oriented.”

Calvin Ong

“Proactive and well-prepared work with good detail.”

Qian Yi Sim

“Thorough and communicates effectively.”

“She is very responsive and communicates well.”

Vishi Sundar

“Vishi is very dedicated and hardworking, trying to do his best to accommodate the needs of the clients. He is very prominent in advising on all aspects of international arbitration, writing concise and well-structured legal documents and communicating with various counterparties effectively trying to grasp as much as possible – not only legal and factual issues but also the technical ones of the case.”

“I recommend his can-do attitude and resourcefulness.”

Kai Yun Tan

“Kai Yun is Intelligent, quick to grasp technical and complex facts, confident and compelling. Sharp mind, strong communicator, intuitive, client-focused and a problem-solver. She is also responsive and responsible. Her values are shared with her team to deliver service and results that are par excellence. She and her team exceeded expectations.”

“Strong subject matter knowledge and good client management.”

“Strong sector knowledge, very responsive, good commercial sense and mindful of costs to client.”

Lesley Tan

“Responsive, good with communications and able to meet expectations and budget.”

“Lesley knows our business and stakeholders very well, which enables her to offer practical advice and solutions.”

Shangwei Tang

“Provided superb advice on my case.”

“Shangwei is confident in his abilities, and this is a reflection of the work he and his team deliver. Yet, he is humble and carries himself with quiet confidence. He is highly perceptive and is able to identity the issues that we face even before we provide him with the full background facts to the matter. He is adaptable, innovative and yet precise. This has allowed him and his team to deliver customised solutions to issues presented by us. Importantly, Shangwei has a big heart. He puts in 100% in everything he does, and we know that he is someone on whom we can put our full trust.”

“Quick understanding of issues, fast response, very professional and, most importantly, very knowledgeable.”

Peng Cheng Tay

“Peng Cheng is very engaging and knows how to pinpoint the appropriate issues and address the client’s needs. His drafting and advocacy skills are superior and extremely useful to address both front-end drafting and disputes work.”

Teck Wee Tiong

“He is committed to our file, has excellent industry and jurisdiction knowledge and is diplomatic. He has problem solving, lateral thinking and is friendly and helpful.”

“Very smart, very user-friendly, and very focused on delivery. Strong technically, but also solid client management skills.”

Top tier full-service Vietnamese firm YKVN has been operating in Singapore for 12 years with a focus on assisting its Vietnam-based clients in international arbitration, commercial disputes and white-collar representation. Launching in Singapore so early has given the firm first-mover advantage and the practice has seen a rapid acceleration of mandates in the past few years.

Senior partner and international arbitration specialist Minh Dang is the key contact for the Singapore office. He is the only Vietnamese member of the SIAC Court of Arbitration and the KCAB International Arbitration Committee.

Yuen Law has a broad disputes offering that covers complex commercial cases in the courts, pre-litigation work including negotiations, mediation and private settlements. Its experience spans shareholder, employment, construction, and property disputes, debt recovery, insolvency, defamation, medical negligence, personal injury and motor accident, and criminal matters. Many of the team’s clients are SMEs and high-net-worth business owners, notably in the consumer goods and services, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, and technology sectors. Last year, the commercial disputes team acted in more than 120 contentious matters and its leadership grew three-fold.

The key contacts for the commercial dispute resolution group are directors Amos Cai and Denise Teo, and associate director Lim Yun Heng. Last year, the team welcomed Teo from Niru & Co and Lim from KSCGP Juris. Teo is experienced in civil and commercial litigation, with her strengths extending to criminal defence and forensic investigations.

The firm also features a robust and highly specialised family practice group that excels in a broad array of contentious family and matrimonial matters. This practice is led by director Fung Peen Lim. The group’s primary areas of expertise encompass divorce, annulments, disputes concerning maintenance and custody, nuptial and separation agreements, as well as the variation and enforcement of court orders. The team is also well versed in offering guidance on domestic violence cases, adoption, contested probate, matters relating to the Vulnerable Persons Act, and cross-border disputes involving jurisdictional and forum issues, relocation, and child abduction. Each year, the team handles about 50 contentious family matters, most of which are divorce cases, often involving highly complex issues related to maintenance and division of matrimonial assets.

In one commercial highlight, Cai led a team for claimant Duke Bakery against three defendants for claims of breach of directors’ duties. In another contract battle, the team was engaged by EON Reality for its defence against a claim made by an ex-employee for breach of contract for outstanding commissions and balance salary due and in the counterclaim against the plaintiff for breaching its duty of care owed to the company.

Client feedback

“They explained the process and details very clearly.” – Commercial and transactions

“Communication, thoroughness and legal knowledge.” – Commercial and transactions

“All done well.” – Commercial and transactions

“They are patient, helpful, and are often willing explore and provide useful recommendations.” – Commercial arbitration

“They provide clear explanations and detailed reviews.” – Family and matrimonial

“I appreciate their understanding each customer’s unique needs, being patient, and guiding the client through each stage with clear deliverables.” – Family and matrimonial

“They listen, and they do care. They stand on my side, protect and plan for me.” – Family and matrimonial

“Yuen Law provides advice which is well thought through; they communicate clearly, and they produce results.” – Family and matrimonial

“The team helped me navigate through very emotional and difficult situations. Their understanding and guidance were crucial for the successful outcome of my trial. The demand from the opposing party was challenged and mitigated with great acumen following the concepts of therapeutic justice and I felt that, with the team, they were not only lawyers but individuals that understood my situation and circumstances on a personal level.” – Family and matrimonial

“Great follow-up. Able to explain legal terms to a layman like myself.” – Family and matrimonial

“They were able to handle my case professionally and efficiently. There was no delay in responding from their end, and everything was handled very promptly. They went above and beyond to ensure that everything went smoothly for me and that I was comfortable throughout the whole process.” – Family and matrimonial

“Customer-oriented. Professional and knowledgeable.” – Family and matrimonial

“They were very detailed and dedicated in going the extra mile in digging for other related cases to defend me, which impressed me. They live up to their name as an award-winning law firm.” – Insurance

“So far, so good. Very detailed and they explain situation well.” – Real estate

“Rich knowledge in advising clients.” – Trusts and estates

“Good at analysis, solving doubts, answering questions. Patient and professional.” – Trusts and estates

Amos Cai

“Knowledgeable, patient and professional.”

Kayshavani Kuppusamy

“She gives clear guidance and goes into details of the paperwork. Once she commits to a due date, she sticks to it, and sends out the email no matter how late it is that day. She is knowledgeable in her field.”

“Professionalism and approachability. She helped me navigate through very emotional and difficult situations. Her understanding and guidance were crucial for the successful outcome of my trial. Great acumen following the concepts of therapeutic justice and I felt she was not only a lawyer but an individual that understood my situation and circumstances on a personal level.”

“Meticulous and friendly.”

“She was very understanding and responded to my questions in detail and promptly. I was very comfortable with her throughout the whole process.”

“Organised, effective, professional and knowledgeable.”

Fung Peen Lim

“Very warm and talkative, he explains very thoroughly.”

“Rich knowledge in advising clients.”

“He gave professional suggestions and followed up quickly on the case.”

“Fung Peen comes across as a very knowledgeable, yet humble person. He conveys his well-thought-out advice in a way that a common person without a legal background understands. He is friendly and very likeable, and this takes away any anxiety or hesitation that a person seeking legal advice may have.”

“Patient, sincere and practical.”

“Experienced and able to advise his client on what to expect and how to proceed. Always put clients’ interest first.”

Lui Si Xuan

“She occasionally follows up with me on what I am likely to expect, in addition to looking for numerous similar cases that had helped me defend my case which eventually convinced the judge on sentencing day and won her case as a junior lawyer. If it hadn’t been for her tireless effort, I would not know what the outcome would have been. I am really very thankful to her.”

Denise Teo

“She has a good understanding of the legal framework. She is down to earth and explains difficult subjects in an easy-to-understand way.”

“Very effective in writing a lawyer’s letter to the debtor partner.”

Samuel Yuen

“He provides very fast and efficient law services in the Asia Pacific region.”