Focus Law Asia is a boutique firm specialising in North Asian commercial disputes, often appearing in complex High Court and SICC litigation on behalf of major Japanese, Korean, and global clients. Group head Shem Khoo is a seasoned disputes specialist with decades of experience representing major corporates in high-value, cross-border litigation and arbitration cases across the energy, shipping, commodities, and finance sectors. Mark Tan leverages deep commercial litigation expertise across various sectors including banking, construction, shipping, and commodities. While Lim Ker Sheon is adept in handling commercial and construction disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Veronica Teo is an up-and-coming lawyer that is thoughtful, methodical and measured in her advice and approach.’
- ‘Results driven team. As a client, I'm happy they save me every cent.’
- ‘I have worked with Shem and his team, and they are dedicated to achieve the outcome in the best interest of the client.’
- ‘Focus Law Asia stands out in the dispute resolution arena for its rare blend of deep legal expertise, pragmatic strategy, and a genuinely client-focused approach. Unlike many firms, they craft tailored solutions for each case, combining top-notch litigators and arbitration specialists with in-house experts across sectors to handle complex, cross-border matters seamlessly.'
- ‘The firm demonstrates strong technical knowledge and tactical judgment in taking on complex multi-jurisdictional disputes, and are especially capable in maritime and shipping disputes.’
- 'Veronica is our lead day to day lawyer. Deeply motivated, Veronica is always on and involved. She will be a big name in the Singapore legal industry, Mark my words.'
Key clients
- D-Well Pte Ltd
- Maersk Tankers Singapore Pte Ltd
- Banque de Commerce et de Placements SA
- International Venture Group
- Oshima Yumiko and Asia Capital Management Pte. Ltd
- Angager Phoenix Pte Ltd
- Nishiki Real Estate Pte Ltd
- Mindanao Marine Limited
- SMT Shipping (Cyprus) Ltd
Work highlights
Acting for and advising Swiss bank Banque de Commerce et de Placements SA (“BCP”) in its claims for fraudulent misrepresentation, breach of contract, unjust enrichment and conspiracy to injure against China Aviation Oil Limited.
Acting for and advising Nishiki Real Estate Pte Ltd, Nishiki International Investments Pte Ltd and Nishiki Holdings Pte Ltd in a slew of litigation arising out of breaches of fiduciary duties by their ex-director.
Acting for and advising Michiyo Kawabe and her holding companies in claims brought by a Japanese-government entity, The Resolution and Collection Corporation, to enforce Japanese judgments against the defendants.
Practice head
Shem Khoo
Other key lawyers
Mark Tan; Lim Ker Sheon; Hannah Cheang; Veronica Teo; Christine Chiam