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R&I law, BlackOak successfully established the untested position in Singapore that a director’s resignation can be withdrawn via conduct of the board and shareholders under Sections 399 and 409A of the Companies Act.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.”
