Firms To Watch: Dispute resolution: local firms

Boutique law firm Focus Law Asia handles a variety of commercial litigation, arising from investment, shareholder, commodity, construction and insurance disputes. Led by Shem Khoo, the team stands out for its experience of representing Korean and Japanese companies and individuals in contentious proceedings
Omni Law LLC was founded by Oommen Mathew, former managing partner at DWF, in 2020 to focus on commercial and corporate disputes. Despite its recent inception, the firm already manages a significant caseload, featuring high-profile corporate, commercial, construction, energy and public international law issues.

Dispute resolution: local firms in Singapore

Allen & Gledhill LLP

Allen & Gledhill LLP is one of the most established firms in the Singaporean market, possessing an impressive depth of knowledge across the spectrum of disputes, as well as issues arising from M&A. Co-heads Andrew Yeo and William Ong lead a ‘strong mix of highly knowledgeable individuals’ that are adept in the context of insolvencies, liquidations and fraud. Given their network of firms in Malaysia, Myanmar, Indonesia and Vietnam, as well as their newest regional office in Ho Chi Minh City, Allen & Gledhill LLP is able to provide clients with a mixture of global and localised expertise. Aside from its esteemed reputation for handling commercial disputes, the team is also proficient in a range of other areas; Tan Kai Liang has extensive experience advising and dealing with international arbitration proceedings and white-collar crime investigations, among various other types of corporate disputes.

Practice head(s):

Andrew YeoWilliam Ong

Testimonials

‘An excellent team, strong mix of highly knowledgeable individuals, works extremely hard in addressing clients’ interests. Practical and timely legal advice, commercially astute, professional and dedicated.’

‘William Ong is very approachable and people friendly. He communicates his ideas simply and clearly. Melissa Mak is especially adept at handling complex legal problems. Benjamin Koh has an eye for details and extremely conscientious.’

‘The team led by Vincent Leow is solution-oriented without compromising on legal technicalities. They are able to decipher complex transactions and extract relevant points to prepare our case. They are able to grasp our commercial concerns and propose clear, definitive and workable options as solutions for us to consider.’

‘Ramesh Kumar is able to provide advice not just on the issue at hand but also provide insight and strategic directions.’

‘Tan Xeauwei and her team are dependable, offer solid legal advice and can be counted on to problem-solve. You don’t have to worry about whether an idea is practical or will work in the commercial world – because Xeauwei has already done that for you. She thinks 10 steps ahead and brings her A-game – all the time!’

‘We appreciate Dinesh Dhillon’s straightforward approach, intricate knowledge of procedure and ability to formulate an effective strategy.’

‘The experience and depth of Senior Counsel Stanley Lai’s legal expertise was clearly a major factor in the excellent outcome that was acheived. He was strongly supported by a capable team.’

‘Vincent Leow is particularly good at giving practical, crisp advice while taking into account practical considerations. He understands the business well.’

Work highlights

  • Represented ARR, a Hong Kong incorporated creative studio and art exhibitions organiser, in a dispute relating to the organisation of the KAWS:HOLIDAY Singapore exhibition.
  • Acted for one of the two Deputy Public Prosecutors, who faced disciplinary proceeding following a high-profile acquittal in a criminal case.
  • Represented the liquidators of PHCQ, the operator of the former Park Hotel Clarke Quay, in a claim against the former sole director and chief executive officer of PHCQ, for breach of fiduciary duties, breach of trust and transactions defrauding creditors.

Davinder Singh Chambers

Davinder Singh Chambers is a boutique law firm focused on dispute resolution, including litigation and international arbitration. The ‘professional, knowledgeable and thorough’  team of more than 30 lawyers regularly handle complex and high-profile cases, with a total value exceeding S$2 billion, often attracting considerable public interest and reports in the press. This covers a wide range of disputes, such as construction, shareholder and employment, as well as a proficiency in defamation and fraud-related matters. The group boasts an impressive portfolio of clients, having successfully acted for the Prime Minister of Singapore in two high-profile defamation claims, and the Attorney-General’s Chambers of Brunei in a criminal matter. Practice head Davinder Singh continues to ‘stand out amongst most practitioners in Singapore’ as the lead of the practice, which includes the ‘highly strategic’ Jaikanth Shankar and Bryan Wong. Navin Thevar, Timothy Lin and David Fong are also names to note.

Practice head(s):

Davinder Singh, SC

Other key lawyers:

Jaikanth Shankar; Navin Thevar; Timothy Lin; David Fong; Bryan Wong

Testimonials

‘Davinder Singh stands out amongst most practitioners in Singapore’

‘A brilliant team who is professional, knowledgeable and thorough. The service that they provide is excellent, super efficient and follow ups were outstanding. They were an absolute pleasure to work with.’

‘Jaikanth Shankar’s expertise and professionalism is exceptional. He balances a refreshing level of pragmatism with keen insight into potential issues, and offered alternative courses of actions. We found his knowledge of law and depth of experience, coupled with the responsive and personable service he provides extremely valuable.’

‘Jaikanth Shankar possesses clarity of thought that identifies the key issues very quickly and is able to articulate it very clearly to non-legal practitioners without any technical jargon. His leadership skills are also excellent, providing direction and focus on the cross-border team.’

‘Jaikanth Shankar is a highly strategic thinker, who has been able to cut to the crux of the issues quickly and articulate the optimal course of legal action and the relevant legal arguments in the client’s interest.’

‘Good strategic advice with sensitivity to the business operating environment, dedicated and cohesive team.’

Key clients

SPH Limited

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

Attorney General’s Chambers of Brunei Darussalam

Lim Oon Kuin

Beneficiaries of the estate of Mustafa s/o Majid Khan

PT Bayan Resources Tbk and Bayan International Pte Ltd

Chan Chew Keak

Millenia Pte Ltd

Mr Goh Chan Peng, Pacific Globe Enterprises Limited

Venture Corporation Limited

Yao Hsiao Tung

Mero Asia Pacific Pte Ltd

SBS Transit Ltd

Peter Tan and Kenneth Tan

RB Capital Farrer Hotel Pte Ltd

Quayside Investments Pte Ltd

IIa Technologies Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acted for the Prime Minister of Singapore in two high-profile defamation claims against the Chief Editor of the website, The Online Citizen, and a blogger.
  • Acted for the Attorney-General’s Chambers of Brunei in criminal appeals involving two former Bruneian judicial officers involving misappropriation of millions of dollars.
  • Acted for PT Bayan Resources in a multi-million cross-border dispute arising from a coal mining joint venture with an Australian party.

Drew & Napier LLC

Jimmy Yim SC , Cavinder Bull SC  and Randolph Khoo continue to lead the team at Drew & Napier LLC, which is renowned for its ‘exceptional litigation ability’ in disputes and arbitration matters, both regionally and on the international stage. The breadth and variety of the firm’s caseload is market-leading, with clients ranging from government agencies and officials, law firms and transnational corporations, to high net worth individuals. Recently, the team represented the former Prime Minister of Georgia in the Singapore Court of Appeal in respect of a momentous claim involving a trust. There are several notable lawyers in the group; Siraj Omar SC and Kelvin Tan have used their ‘excellent service and prompt advice’ to handle a number of fraud-related matters, as well as one of the first few cases in Singapore relating to the liability of insurers to indemnify insureds for business losses arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Blossom Hing , Wendell Wong and Gary Low represent a number of other key individuals at the firm ‘that are very driven to achieve their clients’ objectives.’ 

Testimonials

‘Exceptional litigation ability and legal commercial advice.’

‘Siraj Omar SC assisted us in the setting aside of an arbitral award, at the Singapore High Court and Court of Appeal. We are very happy with the outcome, professionalism and level of service.’

‘They provide timely, commercially useful and clear advice. They are also very user friendly, and are pro-active in proposing solutions that are creative and strategic in nature. They know arbitration and court work well. They are also very professional, polished, and give a very high quality of service.’

‘Meryl Koh is the partner who oversaw our case and she is very strategic in her recommendations. She thinks what is the optimal solution for the company and is not afraid to put her recommendation forward accordingly and explain it clearly to the management team.’

‘Cavinder Bull SC is a first-rate advocate. He makes his arguments clearly, succinctly and persuasively. He is extremely quick on his feet and able to respond to any questions posed by the tribunal. He is astute at understanding the tribunal’s concerns, and his demeanour before the tribunal is always professional and respectful.’

‘The team had intimate knowledge of the local legal environment in Singapore. Their understanding of key legal team and the judicial system in Singapore gave a great advantage to decide on strategies and the ways to approach them.’

‘Exceptional litigation ability and legal commercial advice.’

‘Wendell Wong and Andrew Chua are able to place the client’s interest foremost in their conduct of a matter.’

Key clients

Asia Networks Ltd

Great Eastern General Insurance Limited

Hai Di Lao Holdings Ltd.

Hin Leong Trading Ltd.

ING Bank / PWC UK (Graham Frost)

Raiffeisen Bank International AG

Actoz Soft Co Ltd.

Astrazeneca AB

Creative Technology Ltd.

Government of The Lao People’s Democratic Republic

Work highlights

  • Acted for Hin Leong Trading Ltd in a fraudulent trading case in Singapore, seeking recovery of over US$3.5 billion from the directors of the company.
  • Represented the former Prime Minister of Georgia in the Singapore Court of Appeal in respect of a claim they brought against the Trustee of a US$1.1 billion trust.
  • Acted for IIa Technologies Ltd in a patent infringement suit commenced by Element Six Technologies Ltd, a subsidiary of the De Beers Group, in the Singapore High Court.

Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP

Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP possesses a ‘dedicated team overseeing complex and difficult issues’  in relation to dispute resolution and international arbitration. Clients are provided with a seamless experience thanks to the industry-specific expertise of the firm, which includes real estate, energy and resources, consumer goods, and shipping. They have steered some landmark cases for an illustrious list of clients, one of which recently raised novel law aspects; the firm’s defence of PwC was significant because it clarified that professional services firms do not generally owe a duty of care for findings that affect or even harm third parties. Practice head Francis Xavier, SC, PBM leads the dispute resolution team alongside the newly promoted Adrian Wong and Vikram Nair, with Kelvin Poon as deputy managing partner head of the international arbitration practice. Danny Ong and Jansen Chow also recently leveraged their ‘wealth of experience’  to successfully secure worldwide freezing orders against a first-of-its-kind cryptocurrency matter. Lee Eng Beng SC, Tan Chuan Thye and Murali Pillai are also names to note.

Practice head(s):

Francis Xavier, SC; Adrian Wong; Vikram Nair

Other key lawyers:

Lee Eng Beng SC; Jansen Chow; Danny Ong; Tan Chuan Thye; Murali Pillai; Kelvin Poon

Testimonials

‘We have been working with Danny Ong’s team for more than 1.5 years. They will always do their best to make themselves available when we call on them for help. They have been a calming influence during the stress of litigation.’

‘Danny Ong, Jason Teo and Chen Lixin provide very practical and commercial advice based on their wealth of experience.’

‘At all points in the work with the team they sought out and delivered practical and compelling solutions in a case that was appealed at all stages. Their advocacy skills have helped maintain the objective against a number of legal tactics and appeals.’

‘For disputes and advise on complex matters, we turn to Adrian Wong. Adrian Wong is clear, smart, knowledge of law is superb, able to breakdown complex matters in simple terms, commercial and a pleasure to work with. He is usually supported by Ang Leong Hao.’

‘This practice has a dedicated team overseeing complex and difficult issues of law – it is the unyielding commitment to service which sets them apart from other large practices.’

‘Great team-play, very efficient, target oriented and focused.’

Key clients

Eagle Hospitality Trust

OUE Lippo Healthcare Limited

Senda International Capital Limited

Torque Group

Neil Wong Hou-Lianq

Vedanta Limited

Prudential Assurance Co Singapore

AIM Group

Siemens Group

World Fuel Services (Singapore) Pte Ltd

Keppel Fels Limited

Exklusiv Resorts Pte Ltd

Swiber

Aquarius Corporation

Work highlights

  • Advised OUE Lippo Healthcare Limited on how the restitutionary rule should apply in a case where multiple defendants are held jointly and severally liable at trial, but only a few succeed on appeal.
  • Acted for the directors of Eagle Hospitality Trust in a civil claim brought in Singapore by an investor for breach of statutory duties.
  • Advised Senda International Capital Limited in a complex dispute relating to its joint venture entity Dystar Global Holdings, with its Indian joint venture partner.

WongPartnership LLP

WongPartnership LLP maintains a strong and deep bench of ‘hardworking and trial-focused’  lawyers that are well placed to handle an array of dispute resolution matters, including infrastructure, projects and energy, restructuring and insolvency, and investigations. The group also regularly deals with international arbitration. Large minority oppression cases brought before the Singaporean courts is a forte with recently appointed Senior Counsel Swee Yen Koh SC esteemed for her role as lead counsel in matters relating to infrastructure, retail, and healthcare. Financial services are another key industry for the firm; insurance, banking and security matters are often spearheaded by specialists Melanie Ho Chou Sean Yu and Wendy Lin. Chee Meng Tan has experience handling shareholder disputes and issues relating to construction.

Practice head(s):

Alvin Yeo; Chee Meng Tan; Chou Sean Yu; Ian de Vaz; Melanie Ho; Joy Tan; Hock Keng Chan

Other key lawyers:

Koh Swee Yen; Christopher Chuah; Wendy Lin

Testimonials

‘Very good team. Very responsive. High quality.’

‘Sean You Chou’s availability and responsiveness was outstanding.’

‘A top choice for the Singapore courts, hardworking and trial-focused, they win their cases.’

‘Koh Swee Yen SC is an absolute standout – she’s clever, hardworking and tenacious.’

Key clients

Element Six Technologies Ltd (subsidiary of the De Beers Group)

Mr. Chew Hua Seng

Mr. Darsan Jitendra Jhaveri, Singapore Star Holdings Pte Ltd, Great Newton Properties Pte Ltd, Capital Glory Investments Pte Ltd, Newton Noble Properties Pte Ltd, Sino Noble Asset Management Pte Ltd, Singapore Star Investments Pte Ltd, Singapore Star Shipping Pte Ltd, Singapore Star Properties Pte Ltd, Sino Ling Tao Resources Pte Ltd, Millers Capital Investments Pte Ltd, Nova Raffles Holdings Pte Ltd

J&F Investimentos S.A., Joesley Mendonça Batista, Wesley Mendonça Batista

Or Kim Peow Contractors (Pte) Ltd

Mr Mustaq Ahmad @ Mushtaq Ahmad S/O Mustafa

William Soerjonegoro & Partners

Mr Edmund Ng Kian Huan

Sun Travels & Tours Pvt Ltd

Credit Suisse AG, Singapore Branch

EC Prime Pte Ltd

Mr Tee Wee Sien

Sunbreeze Group Investments Limited, Mr Manoj Mohan Murjani, Mrs Kanchan Manoj Murjani

Raffles Education Corporation Limited, Raffles Education Corporation Limited, Raffles Education Investment (India) Pte. Ltd, Raffles Design International India Pvt. Ltd

EFG Bank AG, Singapore Branch

Merck Sharp & Dohme, Corp.; MSD Pharma (Singapore) Pte Ltd; MSD International GmbH (Singapore Branch); and Merck & Co., Inc

Orion-One Development Pte. Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acted for Element Six Technologies Ltd to enforce certain process and product patents owned by the company which are alleged to have been infringed by IIa Technologies Pte Ltd.
  • Acted for the founder of Mustafa Centre in one of the largest minority oppression cases to be brought before the Singapore Court in Singapore’s legal history.
  • Represented a client and his wife, and various Singapore incorporated entities, to defend a claim commenced by another individual in the Singapore court for breach of trust.

Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow

Practice head Nandakumar Ponniya leads a ‘knowledgeable, pragmatic and professional’ dispute resolution team at Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow. The firm’s key areas of expertise include commercial litigation, technology, construction, energy, and insolvency. Celeste Ang regularly acts as lead counsel in the firm’s high-value and contentious work, handling matters relating to financial services, aviation, tourism, and IT. Andy Leck is also recommended for his experience handling complex commercial disputes. Senior associate Pradeep Nair often acts alongside Ponniya, more recently in a globally recognised matter that raised a novel point of law concerning the arbitrability of a dispute.

Practice head(s):

Nandakumar Ponniya

Other key lawyers:

Andy Leck; Celeste Ang; Pradeep Nair

Testimonials

‘They have specialists in employment, dispute resolution and IP on the team, who were able to advise from their specialist perspectives – which I found useful.’

‘Attention to detail and very quick response time.’

‘The litigation team is very committed and always does its best to give the most practical solutions to clients.’

Key clients

Mr. Hadiran Sridjaja

Poyry (Beijing) Consulting Company

iVenture Card Limited

JTrust Asia Pte Ltd

Mirae Asset Daewoo Co. Ltd

Ian Duncan Stewart

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited

Anupam Mittal

UT Singapore Services Pte Ltd

TES Sustainability Products Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acted for a client in Singapore Court proceedings involving a novel legal point concerning which law governs the arbitrability of a dispute, receiving international attention.
  • Represented iVenture Card Limited in a breach of contract dispute with a local agent, securing a number of successes for the client at both the High Court and Court of Appeal.
  • Acted for UT Singapore Services Pte Ltd and Universal Terminal Pte Ltd against an action brought by Rabobank contending it is the rightful owner of certain products currently stored at the storage terminal operated by the clients.

Cavenagh Law LLP

Cavenagh Law LLP’s continued alliance with Clifford Chance enables clients to benefit from both regional and international litigation expertise in the realm of dispute resolution. With a primary focus on the financial services and banking sectors, the team possesses a remarkable commercial litigation offering. In line with this, much of the firm’s caseload involves fraud, financial disputes and reorganisations, employment law claims, and shareholder conflicts. Practice heads Nish Shetty, Paul Tan, and Paul Sandosham boast an impressive portfolio of clients for the firm, including leading multinational organisations, global insurers, financial institutions, and governments. Joan Lim-Casanova and the recently promoted Elan Krishna are key team members in the firm’s high-value dispute resolution work.

Practice head(s):

Nish Shetty; Paul Tan; Paul Sandosham

Other key lawyers:

Joan Lim-Casanova; Elan Krishna

Work highlights

  • Acted for a multinational financial institution in a SIAC arbitration against a Chinese conglomerate that had provided a guarantee in respect of its subsidiary’s obligation to purchase more than US$50 million in crude oil from the client.
  • Represented a Global Investment Bank headquartered in the United States in relation to a complex and sophisticated fraud against it, perpetrated by threat actors purporting to be authorised signatories of the account of its customer.
  • Acted for Crayhill Frontera Trade Funding DAC in respect of a proposed scheme of arrangement put forward by a commodities trader that the client had provided financing to Antanium Resources Pte Ltd.

Dentons Rodyk

Practice head Siang Pheng Lek leads the ‘devoted and passionate’ dispute resolution team at Dentons Rodyk. Drawing on its cross-border capabilities, clients are provided with a seamless experience across a range of dispute types, including financial, corporate, shareholder and post-M&A disputes, as well as a number of fraud cases. Lawrence Teh is recommended for his ability to ‘handle the most complex matters’ in all areas of commercial law, particularly arbitration and mediation. Loh Jen Wei regularly acts as lead counsel in the handling of all transport and trade-related matters, whilst the expertise of Ajinderpal Singh covers shareholder disputes, insolvency and banking litigation. Huai Yuan Chia and the recently promoted Edric Pan are also names to note.

Practice head(s):

Siang Pheng Lek

Other key lawyers:

Lawrence Teh; Jen Wei Loh; Ajinderpal Singh; Edric Pan; Huai Yuan Chia

Testimonials

‘Deep practice and subject matter knowledge with a client oriented practice that thrives on results.’

‘Lawrence Teh is an exceptional litigator. Very experienced and super client friendly. A master tactician and able to handle the most complex matters. Equally good in court proceedings, arbitration and mediation. The opposition should never under estimate Lawrence.’

‘Jen Wei Loh is very good at managing the team and putting together the various inputs of all the members of the team in a coherent and clear manner.’

‘The Denton’s litigators learn the business quickly and are effective at driving solutions that are in alignment with the company’s goals and mission. They staff are able to bring whatever resources are needed to be effective.’

‘Edric Pan is an experienced litigator who commands respect from opposing counsel and the court along with a wealth of knowledge of Singapore law.’

‘The team is able to find out more out of their usual area of practice. They are willing to listen to you to find out and know more before they give any advice.’

‘Devoted, passionate, warm.’

‘They were responsive, well resourced and provided succinct advice.’

Key clients

PNG Sustainable Development Program Limited (“PNGSDP”)

UniCredit Bank AG, Singapore Branch

Enemalta P.L.C.

Bulat Utemuratov and various associated companies

Engine Holdings Asia Pte Ltd

HEA Water Engineering Pte Ltd

Ong Tze Boon

Boustead Singapore Limited

Work highlights

  • Dentons Rodyk successfully struck out the Plaintiffs’ claim for, inter alia, payment of approximately US$1.65 billion (currently) before the High Court (General Division).
  • Dentons Rodyk acted for UniCredit Bank AG, Singapore branch, who extended a USD 85miliion secured lending trade finance facility to Hin Leong Trading (Pte) Ltd Singapore (“HLT”).
  • Dentons Rodyk advised and represented Enemalta P.L.C., a very prestigious client because of its ultimate ownership by the state of Malta and its position as the leading energy provider and developer of the national electricity network in Malta.

K&L Gates Straits Law LLC

The litigation and dispute resolution team at K&L Gates Straits Law LLC handles a number of complex financial matters. The practice predominantly engages in cases involving fraud, misconduct, insolvencies, shareholder disputes, and debt recovery. Practice head Sreenivasan Narayanan is a ‘sharp and strong litigator’ with an impressive portfolio of clients to his name, including multinational corporations, banks and financial institutions, and local companies and individuals in both a regional and global capacity. Palaniappan Sundararaj, Valerie Ang, and Muralli Rajaram are other key individuals.

Practice head(s):

N. Sreenivasan, SC

Other key lawyers:

Sundararaj Palaniappan; Valerie Ang; Muralli Rajaram;

Testimonials

‘Sreenivasan Narayanan, SC and Murali are a solid team that bring dedication and focus to briefs. They are open minded to explore non obvious avenues and grounded enough to counsel clients to pick their battles wisely to optimise odds of success. Their team works off their energy and I have found them to deliver on time under pressure.’

‘KLG has a strong disputes and litigation team supported by their R&I and shipping practices. As they are a mid sized practice, their team seems very closely knit. As the particular engagement involved the shipping industry, the knowledge of shipping was critical to support dispute resolution and litigation .

‘Sreenivasan Narayanan is a very sharp and strong litigator.’

Key clients

Alternative Advisors Investments Pte Ltd

John Soh Chee Wen

Judicial Managers of Ocean Tankers Pte Ltd

Tat Wai Enterprise Pte Ltd

That.Legal LLC

The General Hotel Management group consisting of General Hotel Management (Singapore) Pte Ltd and General Hotel Management Ltd

Work highlights

  • Represented 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.
  • Advising the Judicial Managers of Ocean Tankers, the chartering arm of oil trader Hin Leong Pte Ltd in respect to the insolvency of Hin Leong.
  • Acting for Alternative Advisors Investments Pte Ltd in its claim to recover monies under a loan agreement and a personal guarantee, both of which have been assigned to AAI.

LVM Law Chambers LLC

LVM Law Chambers LLC’s complex and international disputes practice provides its clients with the ‘right balance of principle and practicality to resolve matters’ across a range of commercial disputes. The team handles a variety of contentious matters for both regional and global corporate clients. Co-heads Lok Vi Ming and Joseph Lee regularly advise on a number of key industries including insurance, construction, transport, insolvency, and energy. Jonathan Muk and Qabir Sandhu are also highly regarded within the team.

Practice head(s):

Lok Vi Ming; Joseph Lee

Other key lawyers:

Ooi Huey Hien; Justin Chan; Jonathan Muk; Qabir Sandhu

Testimonials

‘They work as team. The lawyers have good knowledge of the related field and provide follow-ups.’

‘I work primarily with Jonathan Muk. He is very attentive to the details of the case and has so far provided succinct and helpful advice on the way forward at each juncture that requires a judgment call.’

‘Jonathan Muk has been a very helpful and conscientious legal advisor. He knows how to pitch and present the case effectively to the client’s advantage.’

‘Great team work between the leads and their associates. Joseph Lee and Qabir Sandhu stand out for their hard work and attitude.’

‘Qabir Sandhu is the key lawyer who saw through my High Court case. He was the one whom I would always go to for advice and assistance. He is compassionate person, who understood my circumstances and what I was going through.’

‘A boutique dispute resolution firm that is service-oriented. Lok Vi Ming brings the right balance of principle and practicality to resolve matters.’

Key clients

Unipec Singapore Pte Ltd

Inter Pacific Petroleum Pte Ltd (Under Judicial Management)

CIMB Bank Berhad

J.G. Jewellery Pte Ltd

Plutoray Pte. Ltd., Vaara Pte. Ltd., Starlight Corp Pte. Ltd

Grabtaxi Holdings Pte Ltd

Zonergy Company Limited

Lyu Jun

Biman Bangladesh Airlines Ltd

Work highlights

  • Representing Unipec Singapore Pte. Ltd. in 5 interpleader actions which involve issues of conspiracy and fraud to claim for cargo worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

Providence Law Asia LLC

Recognised as ‘one of the top independent boutique litigation practices’ in Singapore, Providence Law Asia LLC provides counsel services in international arbitrations across Asia and litigation before the Singapore Courts. Co-head Abraham Vergis spearheads a team that handles commercial and corporate litigation, international arbitration, fraud, investments, restructuring and insolvency, and criminal defence matters. Over the past year, the firm has strengthened its bench of practitioners with the addition of Vanathi Ray from Joseph Lopez LLC, as well as the appointment of three new counsel. Zhuo Jiaxiang is also highly regarded as a ‘quality litigator’. Providence Law Asia LLC is celebrating its 10 year anniversary in 2022.

Practice head(s):

Abraham Vergis SC; Zhuo Jiaxiang; Vanathi Ray; Asiyah Arif; Kenny Lau

Other key lawyers:

Ngo Wei Shing

Testimonials

‘One of the top independent boutique litigation practices in Singapore led by Abraham Vergis SC. Deep bench of quality litigators, including, Zhuo Jiaxiang.’

‘Abraham Vergis SC – excellent advocate. Zhuo Jiaxiang – up and coming young partner.’

‘The team has good and fast understanding of the problem, context and dynamic. This will help map out the situation accurately.’

‘Abraham Vergis – pragmatic, logical, focus on end result. Mingguan Lim – detail oriented, well rounded, systematic.’

‘Professionalism, hard-working, friendly, considerable experience.’

‘Abraham Vergis: a lot of experience and reliability.’

‘Asiyah Arif: strong devotion to the client.’

Key clients

Lee Hsien Yang and Lee Wei Ling (as Executor and Trustee of the Estate of Lee Kuan Yew)

PDV Marina S.A.

BP Singapore Pte Ltd

BlackRock and Ares SSG

Liquidators of 8 subsidiaries (1 of which are in creditors’ voluntary winding up while the remaining 7 are in members’ voluntary liquidations) of Xihe Capital (Pte) Ltd

Multiple third parties in a class action

Six Capital Investment Limited

Ventureast Proactive Fund II

Benjamin Kumar Gattie, Nantha Gattie

Work highlights

  • Acting for the executors of the estate of the former Prime Minister of Singapore in a professional misconduct complaint against his lawyer.
  • Assisting PDV Marina S.A, a subsidiary of the national oil company of Venezuela (PDV SA), in the secure release of funds amounting to US$40 million as a result of US sanctions imposed against Venezuela and PDV SA.
  • Advising BlackRock and Aress SSG in respect of a US$50 million loan facility given to Take Solutions Singapore (a majority shareholder of the Indian List Co, Take Solutions India).

Shook Lin & Bok LLP

Practice heads David Chan and Sarjit Singh Gill SC lead ‘a team of tough litigators’ at Shook Lin & Bok LLP, able to handle a range of complex and high-profile matters with a cross-border element. The firm’s litigation and dispute resolution practice is particularly strong in financial and banking disputes, often covering cases of fraud, restructuring and insolvency, corporate and credit recovery, and shareholder disputes. Joseph Tay and Daniel Tan are among a number of other highly regarded team members providing ‘practical and concise advice’ to clients.

Practice head(s):

Sarjit Singh Gill, SC; David Chan

Other key lawyers:

Joseph Tay; Daniel Tan; Jamal Siddique; Daryl Fong;

Testimonials

‘Joseph Tay is brilliant and impressive as our disputes lawyer. He helps us to strategize our case each step of the way, and the advice that he provides is clear and sophisticated. We most appreciate his ability to present our case in a court in a manner that is strong and inspiring.’

‘A professional, capable, Singapore firm, with truly international level support.’

‘The team from Shook Lin is nimble and able to work well with clients and co-defendants; it offers good tactical solutions to the problems faced by clients at effective cost.’

‘Practical concise advice.’

‘A strong team on the restructuring and insolvency disputes side, led by Daniel Tan. A team of tough litigators who work well under strict deadlines and always have the commercial interests of the client at heart.’

‘Daniel Tan as Partner is a pleasure to work with. He always listens and has the ability to quickly formulate a litigation strategy. Smart, hard-working but always does it with a smile on his face.

‘Associates Suresh Viswanath and Jason Leong also deserve praise for their tenacious litigation skills and collaborative manner.’

Key clients

Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd

The Liquidators of the Envy Group of Companies

The Independent Panel of Aljunied-Hougang Town Council

Dathena Science Pte Ltd

Robert Tantular

Funvest Global Pte Ltd

Standard Chartered Bank (Singapore) Ltd

Shinhan Investment Corporation

Janney Montgomery Scott LLC

Malaysian Trustees Bhd

Kitchen Culture Holdings Ltd

Zenyum Pte Ltd

Nippon Shinyaku Co, Ltd

City Hotels Pte Ltd

KPMG Services Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acting for The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation against the ex-directors and ex-employee of Hin Leong Trading (Pte) Ltd in claims of fraudulent misrepresentation, conspiracy by unlawful means, procurement of breach of contract, and negligent misrepresentation.
  • Assisting the Liquidators of the Envy Companies in the Suit brought against the former directors and/or representatives of the Envy Companies to recover unauthorised/fraudulent transactions made out of investors’ funds. The Envy Companies solicited in excess of S$1.1 billion of investments from upwards of 900 investors.
  • Acting for 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.

TSMP Law Corporation

TSMP Law Corporation combines its disputes and litigation skills to provide a mixture of corporate and private clients with vital legal assistance. Shareholder and investment disputes are key strengths for the team, which is also active in trust, construction, employment, and restructuring and insolvency litigation. Practice head Thio Shen Yi SC and Pei Ching Ong are leading corporate and commercial litigators who have specialised in a number of complex and contentious matters. Adrian Tan also regularly acts as lead counsel and is noted for ‘giving practical advice from a commercial perspective based on his vast experience’.

Practice head(s):

Thio Shen Yi, SC

Other key lawyers:

Ong Pei Ching

Testimonials

‘Dedicated team. Responsible and hardworking, good client service. Knowledgeable, friendly with a human touch to the client’s needs. Transparent in billing.’

‘Adrian Tan – Knowledgeable, good human relationship. Compassionate and passionate about his work. Friendly, calm and steady. Attentive to client’s needs. Kwoh Ji Wei – Responsible, very responsive, hardworking, dedicate, friendly, very attentive. Ong Pei Ching – dedicated, good fighting spirit, friendly.’

‘Mr. Adrian Tan is our contact partner in the firm. Mr. Tan is an experienced litigator and is adept at giving practical advice from a commercial perspective based on his vast experience.’

‘The team is great to work with. It’s really easy to communicate with them.’

‘I found TSMP to be very quick in understanding and appreciating the problems/issues at hand and the legal advice given is very sharp and relevant. The main strength is their ability to grasp the root issue very well.’

‘Felicia and Hannah were excellent, personable and makes time available for us, for calls and meetings at short notices. They are also very prompt in their responses, typically giving us assurances by when they would reply.’

‘Ong Pei Ching is a stalwart. She provides conscientious and sound legal advice and is highly attuned to our needs. Vivian is a good pair of hands, on the ball and proficient.’

Key clients

Ok Tedi Fly River Development Foundation Ltd and eight members of communities living in the Western Province of Papua New Guinea representing themselves and other members of their communities

Peter Tan Shou Yi

Success Elegant Trading Limited

Fan Ren Ray, Fan Ruicheng, Chua Teng Da and Chia Chee Tian Joe

Vibrant Group Limited

Terry Lau

16 owners of 12 shop units in Macpherson Mall

Mr Lee Thiam Seng, Executive Chairman of the Board and CEO and majority shareholder of ecoWise Holdings Ltd

ERC Unicampus Pte Ltd

Tong Garden China Investments Pte Ltd

Chengdu Ding Feng Real Estate Development Co Ltd, Taicang Ding Feng Real Estate Development Co Ltd, Xiamen Pacific Estate Investment Co Ltd

BCS Business Consulting Services Pte Ltd

DWP International Limited and Design Worldwide Partnership Singapore Pte Ltd

Abu Dhabi Ports Company PJSC

Work highlights

  • Acting for the communities in Papua New Guinea that were affected by the country’s biggest environmental disaster in recovering monies amounting to US$1.48bn meant for the benefit of said communities.
  • Represented a former Prudential senior financial services manager in defending an S$2.8 billion claim by Prudential over alleged mass poaching of agents.
  • Acting for a client in a claim over the ownership of assets held under their name with two international banks.

Bird & Bird ATMD LLP

The team at Bird & Bird ATMD LLP is notably sought after for its litigation and investigative abilities, and this has since been broadened to account for its deep knowledge of employment and technology. Drawing from its expertise on the global stage, such as issues concerning South Korea, India and Indonesia, the team primarily handles cases that involve IP matters, corporate and shareholder conflicts, and insolvencies. Shaun Lee is acclaimed as being an ‘indispensable asset’ when matters arise, alongside the ‘legally-sound yet commercially suitable advice’ provided by Jonathan Choo. Lijun Chui and Mark Ng are also names of note.

Testimonials

‘Chui Lijun is very knowledgeable in her area of expertise. She stands out by being supportive to clients.’

‘Pragmatic and subject matter experts in the realm of Singaporean speech and defamation law.’

‘Shaun Lee is an indispensable asset when any Singaporean matters arise for us.’

‘The team is able to advise on a wide variety of issues, even cross-border.’

‘Jonathan Choo can be counted on to provide legally-sound yet commercially suitable advice.’

‘Their advice is very thoughtful based on analyzing and looking at issues with various angles.’

Key clients

Retrospect Investment (S) Pte Ltd, Permenpronic Technologies

Pte Ltd and Ng Kim Swee

Voltas Limited

Merck KGaA

Shell Eastern Trading Limited

Greenbay Marine Pte Ltd

Fox Networks Group

Lei Ke

Man Ting Fang (Guangzhou) Business Consultant Partnership

Oracle Corporation Singapore Pte Ltd

James Ian Gillingham

ICOP SpA

DXC

RCMA Group Pte Ltd

Zhongshan Shengwang Electrical Applicance Co., Ltd.

Work highlights

  • Acted for Retrospect Investment (S) Pte Ltd, Permenpronic Technologies Pte Ltd and its main shareholder/director in a series of Singapore court proceedings involving minority oppression and conspiracy, and issues relating to the buy out of client’s shares.
  • Acted for a business consultant partnership in a suit against an individual to enforce a judgment obtained in the People’s Republic of China.
  • Represented the ICOP Group, in Singapore High Court proceedings against a prominent listed construction and engineering company.

Braddell Brothers LLP

Braddell Brothers LLP, a boutique dispute resolution and prevention practice, focuses on litigation, international commercial arbitration, mediation and all forms of ADR. The practice acts against large financial institutions, multinational corporates and states. Key area of focus include commerical litigation and arbitration, injunctions and pre-emptive relief, as well as medical negligence and misconduct. Practice head Edmund Kronenburg handles disputes across the commercial and corporate, energy and natural resources, media and telecommunications, breach of confidence, defamation, medical and healthcare, and employment areas. Angelia Thng acts on contractual disputes, company and shareholder litigation, corporate insolvency, employment, tort and medical negligence issues. Joanna Chew was made partner in December 2021 and is recognised as another important team member.

Practice head(s):

Edmund Kronenburg

Other key lawyers:

Angelia Thng; Joanna Chew

Testimonials

‘Braddell Brothers truly cares about the interests of its clients.’

‘Edmund Kronenburg is an outstanding lawyer, he is intellectually gifted, has a deep understanding of law and a significant experience in court.’

Key clients

Atlas Asset Management

Autodesk Asia Pte Ltd & Autodesk Ltd, Japan

BAFCO Singapore Pte. Ltd. / Big Ass Fans

BASF Intertrade AG

BD Cranetech Pte Ltd

BeIN Asia Limited & BeIN SPORTS Asia Pte Limited

Envision Capital Limited

Hyundai Engineering Co Ltd

Inter-Continental Oil & Fats Pte Ltd / Musim Mas

Singapore Medical Council

Supersoft Limited

Utico FZC

Wondershare Technology Co., Limited

NTT Asia Pacific Holdings Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Represented UMA KUMARI READE & ARTHUR DORIZE in their claim against the National University Hospital (NUH) and their senior consultant/clinical director of the Division of Maternal Foetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology for not acting upon test results showing that the mother was positive for toxoplasmosis and not taking any steps to prevent her foetus contracting the disease.
  • Acted for ENVISION CAPITAL LIMITED, a British Cayman Islands corporation, to recover US$10 million held by Advance Crest Investments Limited and controlled by Capital Square Partners Management Pte Ltd arising from an aborted investment into a BVI corporation.
  • Acted for HYUNDAI ENGINEERING CO. LTD in applying to set aside a SIAC Arbitral Award ordering them to pay approx. SGD 9.5 million to VITZROSYS CO LTD arising from a Memorandum of Understanding in respect of bidding for works on a gas turbine power plant Project in Iraq, owned by the Iraq Ministry of Electricity.

CNPLaw LLP

CNPLaw LLP is instructed across all aspects of civil and criminal litigation as well as alternative dispute resolution. Specifically, the practice advises clients within the consumer product manufacturing, financial services and real estate sectors. The team also offers expertise advising developers, main contractors and specialised sub-contractors across the breadth of construction and engineering disputes. The department is overseen by a leadership trio comprising Soo Ling See Tow , Venetia Tan and Subramanian Pillai ; the latter represents publicly listed companies, multi-national corporations and high net worth individuals in corporate and commercial disputes. Sharleen Eio supports international companies in complex cross-border disputes.

Practice head(s):

Soo Ling See Tow; Subramanian Pillai; Venetia Tan

Other key lawyers:

Sharleen Eio; Daphne Tan

Testimonials

‘Innovative in suggesting solutions in dispute resolution. Able to think out of the box’

Key clients

The owners of commercial units at the King Albert Park Mall

Lim Bee Lan

CJA

Bayswater Fiduciary Services Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acted for appellant in successful appeal and landmark Singapore Court of Appeal decision CJA v CIZ [2022] SGCA 41.
  • Acted for the owners of the King Albert Park mall in their claim for misrepresentation against the developer of the King Albert Park mall.

Harry Elias Partnership

Harry Elias Partnership advises prominent local and international individuals, banks, financial institutions and corporations. The teams handles a variety of civil, commercial and criminal disputes. Practice head Philip Fong is instructed on civil disputes relating to contracts, shares, companies, property, professional negligence, trusts and wills. S Suressh, also head of the labour and employment team, focuses on commercial litigation. Tan Chau Yee, Justin Chia and Yvonne Foo act on construction-related contentious matters. Tan Weiyi deals with transactional, licensing, intellectual property, employment and trade disputes.

Practice head(s):

Philip Fong

Other key lawyers:

S Suressh; Tan Chau Yee; Justin Chia; Tan Weiyi; Yvonne Foo;

Key clients

Chua Peng Jun

Raffles Hospital Pte Ltd

CDL Properties Ltd

South Beach Consortium Pte Ltd

Public Utilities Board

SMRT Corporation Limited

HSBC Institutional Trust Services (S) Ltd as Trustee of Ascendas

Real Estate Investment Trust

First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC Singapore Branch

BRC Asia Limited (including subsidiary Lee Wielded Mesh Singapore P/L)

Management Corporation Strata Title Plan No. 3602 (“MCST 3602”)

Rich-Link Construction Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acted for client’s claims for over SGD 108 million against the Hyflux Group.
  • Represented MCST 3602 in the Singapore High Court Suit HC/S 1149/2014 to claim against the builder (China Construction (South Pacific) Development Co Pte Ltd), the architect and the professional engineer, for spontaneous shattering of glass balustrades due to the alleged wrong use of 1-ply non-laminated tempered glass in all 132 units.

Morgan Lewis Stamford LLC

Morgan Lewis Stamford LLC is instructed on commercial, corporate, financial and tax disputes. The practice acts on contentious matters for clients from a myriad of sectors, including finance, tax, energy, mining and resources, projects and infrastructure. Daniel Chia oversees the team, dealing with investment disputes, shareholder litigation, fraud prosecution and securities, as well as regulatory enforcement proceedings. Wendy Tan supports clients across the shipping, international trade and commodities, energy, insurance and logistics sectors.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Chia

Other key lawyers:

Wendy Tan; Ker Yanguang

Testimonials

‘Excellent team at all levels. High level of partner involvement throughout.’

‘Daniel Chia is highly involved in cases from start to finish. This, combined with his keen intellect and high commercial acumen, ensures that the case is well run and well-pleaded throughout.’

‘Ker Yanguang’s personable demeanour demonstrates a deep knowledge of the law and a tenacious drive to secure the best outcome for his clients.’

Key clients

Directors of Verrency Singapore/ Verrency Group Holdings

Convexity

PetroChina International (Singapore)

COSCO Group of companies – Sinfeng Marine Services and Cosco Petroleum Pte Ltd

PTT Thailand Limited

HP Enterprise

Shanghai Shipyard

Tembusu Growth Fund III

Gracious Land Pte Ltd – linked to the Mayapada Group

Darco Water Limited

Union Power Limited

ISO Team Limited

Oil Brokerage International

Mann & Noble Retail Brands Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Engaged by the Indonesian billionaire tycoon Tahir to act for one of the companies in his Mayapada Group – Gracious Land – in legal proceedings against Oxley Gem (a prominent property developer in Singapore).
  • Acted for Convexity Limited involved in both arbitration and setting aside proceedings with a series of related entities trading under the name “KuCoin” which is linked to a crypto currency exchange.
  • Advised PetroChina on various issues arising out of the high profile collapse of Hin Leong Trading, one of Asia’s largest fuel traders and bunker suppliers, and its shipping arm, Ocean Tankers (Pte) Ltd which operates a fleet of FSU and tankers, as well as its shipowning arm, Xihe Holdings and Xihe Capital group of companies.

Oon & Bazul LLP

Oon & Bazul LLP is recommended for its work regarding trade finance and international trade disputes. The team also fields a dedicated fraud and asset recovery practice, offering expertise in obtaining urgent protective injunctions and freezing orders. Practice head Bazul Ashhab is supported by Kelly Yap, who focuses on international trade and shipping matters. Lionel Chan specialises in complex commercial dispute resolution matters involving significant cross-border elements. Jerald Foo and Priscilla Lua joined from Clifford Chance in September 2021, with the latter focusing on international arbitration and commercial litigation.

Practice head(s):

Bazul Ashhab

Other key lawyers:

Kelly Yap; Lionel Chan; Priscilla Lua; Jerald Foo; Benedict Eoon

Testimonials

‘The team is very responsive and is able to provide practical and commercial advices.’

‘I would recommend Bazul Ashhab.’

Key clients

Zaftr Inc.

Winson Oil Trading

Taconic Capital Advisors (“Taconic”)

TransAsia Capital

ICICI Bank

Wivewaters Resources Pte Ltd

Universal Metal Coating Company (UNICOIL)

Shree Ramkrishna Exports Pvt Ltd (“SRK”)

National Bank of Oman

Work highlights

  • Acted for Zaftr Inc., a company in Alberta, Canada, that trades in Bitcoins. Client is a formally registered and regulated virtual currency service provider with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada.
  • Acted for Winson Oil Trading, in its claim against the defendant for their failure to effect payment pursuant to an irrevocable documentary letter of credit.
  • Advised Taconic on professional negligence claims by Dynamic Oil Trading (Singapore) Pte Ltd against Deloitte & Touche LLP in Singapore High Court proceedings.

Pinsent Masons MPillay

Pinsent Masons MPillay is renowned for handling disputes arising out of infrastructure and energy projects. Practice head Sam Boyling advises Chinese clients in arbitrations based in Singapore, London, Hong Kong, and Stockholm. Mohan Pillay deals with commercial litigation and regional arbitration work relating to construction and engineering projects. Frédéric Gillion and Chen Han Toh are further important team members.

Practice head(s):

Sam Boyling

Other key lawyers:

Mohan Pillay; Frédéric Gillion; Chen Han Toh

Testimonials

‘Very approachable and attentive.’

RPC Premier Law

RPC Premier Law is instructed on complex commercial and civil, corporate, insurance and aviation disputes. The firm represents senior individuals and companies in claims involving leading banks and asset managers. Practice head Swee Siang Boey offers expertise in contractual and tortious claims, including construction, defamation, professional negligence and employment disputes. Navin Joseph Lobo has considerable experience dealing with complex cross-jurisdiction commercial and civil disputes. Yuankai Lin supports clients across the technology, communications and media, retail, entertainment and sport, consumer life sciences and healthcare, and aviation sectors.

Practice head(s):

Swee Siang Boey

Other key lawyers:

Navin Joseph Lobo; Yuankai Lin

Testimonials

‘Swee Sian Boey  is a lawyer that I literally trust with my life.’

‘Yuankai Lin is stellar at client management, and makes clients feel valued and important.’

‘Always provide lucid, up to date, pragmatic legal advice.’

Key clients

PT. Pipit Mutiara Indah

Chia Seong Fatt

QL Mutiara (S) Pte. Ltd.

Hainan Hui Bang Construction Investment Group Ltd

Siemens Industry Software Inc

Huationg Contractor Pte Ltd

Energy Market Authority

Building and Construction Authority

Council of Estate Agencies

Yong Gui Investment Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Handled a dispute pertaining to a master joint venture agreement on the development and operation of an oil palm plantation that arose among joint venture partners.
  • Acted for Hainan Hui Bang Construction Investment Group Ltd in a prolonged trial on a dispute that dealt with multiple legal issues involved arising out of both Singapore and PRC law.
  • Acted for the Council For Estate Agencies as prosecuting counsel in disciplinary proceedings (including trials) against errant salespersons and estate agents for their various instances of misconduct.

Simmons & Simmons JWS

Simmons & Simmons JWS acts on commercial dispute resolution matters, often with an employment focus. Practice head Mohammed Reza is experienced in commercial and banking disputes, advising on matters involving financial institutions and multinational corporations across various business sectors. Associate Darren Low arrived from Davinder Singh Chambers in June 2021, acting for clients across the financial services, banking, commodities, oil and gas, technology, engineering and mining sectors.

Practice head(s):

Mohammed Reza

Other key lawyers:

Darren Low

Testimonials

‘The Singapore disputes resolution team is involved in a number of high profile disputes making their way through the court system.’

‘Mohammed Reza’s team offers financial institutions, listed companies and more recently blockchain companies deep expertise in litigation and investigations.’

‘Mohammed Reza is a superb advocate. Incisive, determined and focused, he brings calm and reason to any dispute.’

Key clients

Qatar National Bank (Q.P.S.C.), Singapore Branch

Seabury Trade Capital SPC

Societe-Generale, Singapore Branch

RCMA Asia Pte Ltd

Nicolas Rohrlach (CEO of Velocity, Virgin Australia Airlines Pty Ltd)

Moody’s Asia Pacific Limited

KPF Singapore Pte Ltd

Cosimo Borrelli and Benjamin John Crilly (Kroll Integrated Global Solutions, receivers appointed over Agritrade Power Holdings Pte Ltd)

XinFin Fintech Pte Ltd

Alipay Singapore Holding Pte. Ltd

De Nora Water Technologies

Capula Investment Management LLP

Vopak Asia Pte Ltd and Vopak Terminal Singapore Pte Ltd

TSGF SpA

Epik Pte Ltd Yes

UBS AG (Hong Kong and Singapore branches)

Work highlights

  • Acted for Societe-Generale, Singapore Branch, an institutional creditor, against the Lim Family in the high-profile and widely reported restructuring of Hin Leong Trading Pte Ltd, with debts in excess of US$3.8billion.
  • Acted for the receivers in Singapore court proceedings arising from the highly complex and widely reported restructuring of Agritrade International Pte Ltd, with debts reportedly in excess of US$1.55 billion.
  • Acted for Qatar National Bank (Q.P.S.C.), Singapore Branch, an institutional creditor, in the widely reported and high profile restructuring of Hin Leong Trading Pte Ltd with debts in excess of US$3.6 billion.

Tan Kok Quan Partnership

Tan Kok Quan Partnership handles a variety of complex commercial disputes. The practice is instructed by clients across a broad spectrum of industries such as hospitality and leisure, banking and finance, food and beverage, and energy. Marina Chin co-leads the team with Eddee Ng ; the latter offers experience in arbitration and commercial litigation covering a plethora of sectors. Paul Seah is regarded as another crucial member within the department.

Practice head(s):

Marina Chin, SC; Eddee Ng

Other key lawyers:

Paul Seah

Testimonials

‘The team consists of people who are experienced in the field of commercial litigation and procedural law at SIAC.’

‘Their ability to explain complex commercial disputes in a language that is easy for clients to understand, including strategic and logical solutions.’

‘Responsive and knowledgeable.’

‘Marina Chin is responsive and knowledgeable and provides a no-nonsense, down-to-earth and commercially sound service.’

‘The leadership was strong with a good team below to support them.’

‘Their legal strategy is compelling.’

‘The team is very knowledgeable and efficient.’

Key clients

AE Brands Korea Ltd

Asahi Brands Asia Ltd

Asahi Premium Brands Ltd

Asahi Brands Germany GmbH

Sengkang Town Council

Beyonics group of companies

United Overseas Bank Limited (“UOB”)

Mr Lim Wee Li, the former Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chairman of the Catalist-listed Kitchen Culture Holdings Ltd

Mr Hamish Alexander Christie

Virtus Law LLP

Virtus Law LLP retains expertise in resolving disputes relating to maritime and international trade, restructuring and insolvency, commercial litigation, employment and international arbitration. Recently, the practice has seen an uptake in fraud, regulatory and investigation instructions from private clients, dedicated family office and private investment funds. Practice head Daryll Ng specialises in fintech, shareholder and marine dispute resolution. Co-head Terence Seah is noted for dealing with white-collar crime matters. Commercial litigator Lauren Tang completes the leadership trio, focusing on restructuring and insolvency issues.

Practice head(s):

Daryll Ng; Terence Seah; Lauren Tang

Testimonials

‘Daryll Ng is very approachable, responsive and helpful.’

‘Led by Daryll Ng, this exceptional group of practitioners takes people through the dispute resolution process with care, precision and with a manner which makes you feel they care about the outcome and not necessarily engaging in action which will prolong or exacerbate the dispute.’

‘Daryll Ng is empathetic and a great strategic mind.’

Key clients

Prudential Assurance

BNP Paribas

9050558 Canada Ltd and Bridging Finance Inc.

Bestjet Travel Pty Ltd

Volatility Token Master Fund

Various clients in the cryptocurrency sector

Great Eastern Assurance No

Equiom Fiduciary Services Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acted  for Volatility Token Master Fund in relation to a Simple Agreement for Future Token dispute with EFC Foundation Ltd.
  • Advised BNP Paribas, the financiers in claims against a defaulting borrower and enforcement against security.
  • Advised and acted for two major secured lenders on the collapse of a well-known Singapore oil trader (Hin Leong Trading), its related vessel ownership group (Xihe Holdings) and its related bareboat charterer (Ocean Tankers), with an exposure of well over US$500 million.

Withers KhattarWong LLP

Withers KhattarWong LLP is recognised for acting on white-collar, employment, private capital and tax disputes. The client base includes corporate entities, high net worth individuals, governments, trading firms funds, manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers, property owners, and banks. Particular sectors of focus for the department include energy, commodities, telecommunications, insurance, banking, securities, healthcare, shipping, defence and construction. Practice head Deborah Barker SC has extensive experience in civil and commercial litigation. Chenthil Kumarasingam concentrates on the technology, banking and financial services industries. Ushan Premaratne works on disputes relating to joint ventures, software contacts, private equity, trust, commodities, banking and securities. Shaun Leong is a further vital member of the team.

Practice head(s):

Deborah Barker

Other key lawyers:

Chenthil Kumarasingam; Ushan Premaratne; Shaun Leong

Testimonials

‘Collaborative approach to solving disputes. Very dedicated individuals who find creative solutions.’

‘Chenthil Kumarasingam is outstanding. Dedicated, and fights for his clients.’

‘Knowledgeable about the space, can handle complex cross-border matters, able to provide solid and practical advice.’

‘Special mention to Shaun Leong who is extremely helpful and “switched-on”.’

‘The team is super efficient and has a great work ethic combined with a positive client facing attitude.’

‘Ushan Premaratne is a top class strategist, who finds effective and practical solutions to resolve complex commercial disputes.’

Key clients

Delphinium Capital PLC

American Greenfuels Rockwood (Tennessee) LLC

Choon Hin Group

Multimedia Engineering Pte Ltd

NPE Print Communications Pte Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acted for Delphinium Capital PLC, the sole shareholder of oCap Management Pte Ltd in relation to a dispute involving the Wirecard entities.
  • Acted for and advised American Greenfuels Rockwood (Tennessee) LLC, in respect of its claim brought against Aik Chuan Construction Pte Ltd.
  • Acted for Mr Shantanu Prakash, a well-known businessman with substantial influence in India and a founder of Educomp Solutions Limited which promotes equitable access to education in India.