Mid-sized boutique law firm Quahe Woo & Palmer is led by three leading dispute resolution practitioners, Michael Palmer, Christopher Woo and Melvin Lum. The team comprises 24 lawyers in total, including seven directors and one consultant. 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.
Since the strategic hiring of construction specialist Yeo Boon Tat in2020, the firm has experienced a steady increase in contentious infrastructure, construction and engineering mandates. The firm is active in dispute matters relating to key projects in Singapore, ranging from commercial developments to public infrastructure projects.
On the non-commercial side, Quahe Woo & Palmer has a highly regarded family and matrimonial law practice that is headed by leading lawyer Michelle Woodworth. This year, that practice climbs up into the second tier in the rankings for contentious family law.
In one highlight during the research period, the firm defended an investor against BTHMB Holdings, in a case which arose from the client’s attempted acquisition of Bithumb Korea, one of South Korea’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges. In another matter, the team is defending CSAPL Holdings against Carlsberg’s claims over the repayment of a loan. A US glove-maker instructed the team for its claim in the Singapore High Court against a supplier arising from a contract to supply medical grade gloves. The construction team is defending a property developer against a claim in the Singapore High Court brought by the management corporation of a residential development in relation to alleged defects in the property.
Client feedback
“Meticulous and user-friendly advice.” – Commercial and transactions
“They clearly set out our position, and provided direction on how to negotiate with the other party.” – Commercial and transactions
“They are responsive and gave timely advice that is cost-effective.” – Commercial and transactions
“Good service, prompt responses and professional attitude.” – Construction
“The partner on construction disputes is quite experienced and a very thorough lawyer.” – Construction
“Lawyers have practical knowledge of the law of the land and how can they best implement it in my situation.” – Family and matrimonial
“Quahe Woo & Palmer has carried itself in a fair and professional manner while proactively protecting and advising me on my legal rights. Quahe Woo & Palmer’s professional conduct makes it a trusted adviser.” – Family and matrimonial
“Provide sound and practical legal advice. Able to respond quickly to urgent matters.” – Insolvency
“Quahe Woo & Palmer has been very professional and will constantly update us on the status of the case. They are reliable and we are very happy with their service.” – Labour and employment
“Personal responses, prompt and fair.” – Real estate
Shiao Hong Ho
“She has a penchant for details, practical solutions within the ambit of law, and always listens to the client very well.”
“She is diligent, capable and timely with good and fair advice in the best interests of the client.”
“She is knowledgeable, methodical and extremely timely and effective in her communication. She also displayed empathy in handling the case.”
Melvin Lum
“Calm and confident especially in crisis settings. A safe pair of hands.”
“Responsive, clear and precise.”
“A trusted adviser that provides personalised service and in-depth knowledge.”
Reuben Tan
“He is professional, knowledgeable, patient and listens well. He provides good solutions and suggestions.”
Chris Woo
“Excellent knowledge and communication.”
“Honest and transparent.”
Siyue Wu
“Siyue provided practical legal advice based on the documents reviewed.”
Boon Tat Yeo
“Great service, great client communications and honest advice.”
“He’s thorough and has a deep understanding of construction disputes.”
