Established in July 2019, JLex is headed by Joseph Tan and Joanna Poh specialising in commercial disputes with a particular focus on shipping and international trade. The firm often receives instructions from foreign solicitors to act in Singapore litigation cases. Tan regularly acts as arbitrator in international arbitrations seated in Singapore and Hong Kong and speaks at various conferences involving maritime and international trade matters.
Client feedback
“Commercially minded in their approach.” – Shipping
“They are very professional.” – Shipping
Joseph Tan
“Contactable, commercial-minded.”
“Very detailed.”
Work highlights
Acted for China Coal Solution (Singapore) in the Singapore Court of Appeal on a case to determine the extent of the doctrine of ‘subject to contract’.
Acted for SP PowerAssets in a claim against the owner of a jackup rig for damage to an undersea cable tunnel caused by the negligent mooring of the jackup rig.
Key clients
Bary Commodities, Global Projects Services, Ishima, Orient Asia Maritime, Ultro International
Niru & Co is known for its shipping practice, active in both litigation and advisory work. The firm often deals with substantial ship collision cases as well as major oil pollution cases. Apart from shipping, the firm also advises on aviation matters including work injury claims, freight forwarders’ liability issues and so on. It has Malaysian associated office Suflan T H Liew & Partners.
Client feedback
“Efficiency and timely manner.” – Dispute resolution
“Follow up a summary of our discussions. Keep us posted with the developments. Provide meaningful advice on the approach, with our target objectives in mind. Act with our interest in mind.” – Dispute resolution
“The firm was very meticulous towards details and possible loopholes. The firm was also able to communicate with clients in a way that is very detailed yet keeping their language easy to understand.” – Dispute resolution
“Niru and Co provides proactive and practical legal approaches to address legal issues and the matter in hand. Treating customers friendly and respectfully.” – Insurance
“Extremely committed, reliable and professional.” – Shipping
“Positively details and meticulously organised.” – Shipping
Teck Huat Liew
“Very good communication skills. Unique ability to simplify complexed legal matters for us businessman to digest and decide upon.”
“In-depth knowledge and responsive to our industry requirement.”
Niru Pillai
“Expert knowledge practical approaches positive relationship with the professionals.”
Alex Yeo
“Alex was very meticulous towards details and possible loopholes. He was also able to communicate with clients in a way that is very detailed yet keeping the language easy to understand.”
“Listens well, provides good advice, acts with our interest in mind, patient and reachable.”
“Alex was very meticulous towards details and possible loopholes. He was also able to communicate with clients in a way that is very detailed yet keeping the language easy to understand.”
Work highlights
Represented Swiss bank Banque Cantonale de Geneve in a claim against the defendant for breach of bailee’s duty and/or conversion of cargo that was shipped aboard the vessel ‘Kronviken’.
Acted for the plaintiff Trans Asian Shipping Services in a claim against the defendant for negligence and breach of duty.
Rajah & Tann is one of the most visible among Singapore’s ‘Big Four’ law firms in the southeast Asian market. It occupies the top tier across an array of practice areas and sectors, with well-established teams in both the transactional and contentious arena. The firm has outstanding experience in complex and high-value cross-border matters, closely working with its R&T Asia network with specialised industry expertise. The firm has a traditional strength in dispute resolution backed by the largest litigation practice in Singapore with seven senior counsels. Key names include Angela Lim for banking and finance, Kim Huat Chia for capital markets and corporate and M&A, Kala Anandarajah for competition, Francis Xavier and Andre Yeap for dispute resolution, Arnold Tan for investment funds, Patrick Ang and Eng Beng Lee for restructuring and insolvency, Vikna Rajah for tax and private client matters, and Rajesh Sreenivasan for technology and telecommunications.
Client feedback
"Deep expertise in banking and finance and has a network of law firms to support cross-border deals in a seamless manner." – Banking and finance
"The positive attribute that we most appreciate is the proactive attitude of the team. They help us navigate the regulations in Singapore. They are responsive and easy to work with." – Capital markets
"They demonstrate strong regulatory knowledge, provide clear and practical advice, and have a solid understanding of the fund management landscape in Singapore." – Investment funds
Jasmine Chew
"She is knowledgeable, capable and very professional. She has provided valuable opinions and is central to helping us navigate the regulatory landscape."
"Jasmine is responsive, detail-oriented, and provides clear and well-structured advice. She has a strong grasp of MAS regulations and offers practical guidance tailored to our business needs."
Xin Mei Lee
"Xin Mei is our go-to lawyer for highly structured and complex leveraged and acquisition financings. She is a high-calibre and top-tier legal talent with an extremely astute mind. She is always able to quickly grasp the nuances in highly complex transactions and is extremely knowledgeable in both legal and commercial issues. She is solution-oriented and is always able to structure bespoke and innovative solutions to meet the needs of her demanding clients. She is extremely dedicated, always responsive/accessible to clients and highly reliable – you can always count on her to deliver high quality work even under compressed deadlines. She is also highly personable, excellent at managing client relationships and connects well with clients. She demonstrates great leadership on projects and is an absolute bright spark amongst the banking and finance equity partners in Singapore."
Zixiang Sun
"Brings a standard of practice that is more often found in international law firms than in domestic law firms"
"Took the time to understand our commercial needs and has been on point in advocating for us ever since."
Cheryl Tan
"Cheryl is very responsive and reliable, and very pleasant to work with. She always responds promptly and consistently provides highly practical solutions. She is a highly trusted and valued advisor of the bank."
Work highlights
Acted for Vietjet on its landmark S$8 billion ($6.24 billion) acquisition of CFM advanced Leap 1B aircraft engines.
Advised a Bruneian airline on its acquisition of four Boeing widebody aircraft.
Successfully obtained an anti-suit injunction for a China-headquartered shipping group, restraining a defendant from pursuing claims exceeding $100 million in Indonesian courts.
Represented a Qingdao investment management company in a $200 million claim related to the seizure of the tanker Inherit. The case involves complex issues of maritime law and cross-border transactions.
CNPLaw, formerly known as Colin Ng & Partners, is active in all major practice areas, including banking and finance, capital markets, corporate and M&A, investment funds and private equity. The firm has experience in advising companies in the real estate and technology and telecommunication sectors, particularly active in blockchain and cryptocurrency. The corporate and finance team has established a niche practice advising companies in high-growth, emerging markets like Myanmar, Indo-China and the Philippines. Lisa Theng, Ken Chia, Pradeep Kumar Singh, Min-Li Tan, Xiaomeng Ge and Bill Jamieson are key contacts for transactional work. Soo Ling See Tow and Subramanian Pillai are the key partners for contentious matters.
Work highlights
Advised a Chinese lender and several other major banks on a substantial term loan amounting to $1.6 billion.
Assisted a Turkish real-estate developer on a master developer agreement with the Indonesian government for a $750 million social housing initiative.
Advised a Japanese bank on navigating banking regulations for a loan agreement.
JT Legal is a boutique law firm recognised for its expertise in corporate law, banking and finance, and investment funds. The firm has carved a niche in providing tailored legal solutions to startups and established businesses, with managing director and investment funds specialist Joshua Tan leading the team. The firm is noted for its strategic advisory on fund formation and compliance, as well as its handling of intricate financing arrangements.
Work highlights
Advised Mosaic Hospitality Solutions on the issuance of multiple convertible notes valued at $1.52 million. This involved negotiating with various private equity firms across different jurisdictions.
JurisAsia is a boutique firm that specialises in corporate and M&A and general commercial transactions. Its intellectual property practice has been fairly active in the past year. It has an exclusive association with international law firm Gowling. The firm’s offering includes M&As, foreign direct investment, joint ventures, venture capital and private equity investments, fund management and capital markets advice, with a particular focus on Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, China and Vietnam. Tan Choon Leng is the key contact.
Client feedback
“Fast responses and accommodating.” – Corporate and M&A
“They are always available to help, are creative, concise and supportive. Lawyers have a very positive attitude.” – Corporate and M&A
Choon Leng Tan
“He’s the best lawyer I ever met: practical, quick, innovative and concise.”
Vincent Tan
“Vincent offers quick responses and can give commercial feedback on the deal.”
Work highlights
Advised Claret Capital Partners, a UK-based private credit fund with a focus on providing growth financing to innovative businesses, on its financing facility to Una Brands.
Key clients
Geeq Corporation
QED Law Corporation is a banking and finance focused boutique law firm. It handles a significant body of structured financing, real estate financing, acquisition financing, project financing as well as regulatory and advisory work. The firm is increasingly involved in the structuring of financing transactions particularly with cross-border elements, complex shareholding and asset-holding structures. Susan Kong, Marilyn Goh and Linda Cai are core members of the firm.
Client feedback
“Hard-working, cooperative and swift. Awareness of the time zone difference.” – Banking and finance
“The lawyers are very responsive, careful and business-oriented.” – Corporate and M&A
Annabelle Wang
“Annabelle is very professional. She definitely manages her time very good, which allows her to respond to our queries in time. It is very important for us as we are in a timezone which is -5 hours to Singapore. Her advice is always clear and thoughtful.”
Work highlights
All the deals submitted during the research period remain strictly confidential. However, the firm has been busy acting for clients in various term loan facility and refinancing matters.
Stephenson Harwood has a noted aviation and maritime practice, and a well-regarded banking and finance offering. It is part of the Stephenson Harwood (Singapore) Alliance, which includes a formal relationship between Stephenson Harwood and Virtus Law. The firm’s aviation finance experience includes leasing, lessor financings and complex structured financings for household name aviation sector clients. Gregory Xu is a key contact, with Pedram Norton being another name to note.
Work highlights
Acted for Golden Equator Capital and other investors in connection with its loan to Agritrade Resources.
Represented ABN AMRO, acting out of its head office in Amsterdam, in relation to a senior secured multi-currency revolving and term loan to Peacock Asset Company.
Key clients
ADB, Axis Bank, Bank of China, ICICI Bank, MUFG Bank, OCP, TransAsia Private Capital, Venturra Capital
TSMP Law Corporation is a prestigious, mid-sized law firm renowned for its expertise in dispute resolution, corporate law, and private client services. Recognized for its strategic and innovative approach, the firm effectively handles complex legal issues for a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations, local businesses, and high-net-worth individuals. The firm not only acts for various major corporations and financial institutions but also is frequently sought out by different regulatory bodies.
A key strength of TSMP lies in its dispute resolution capabilities, particularly in litigation and arbitration. The dispute resolution practice proudly states that it takes on difficult cases, ones that test, shape or advance the law. The disputes team covers the full gamut of litigation and arbitration, notably complex commercial and corporate litigation with a focus on boardroom, shareholder and investment disputes. There is additionally a growing practice specialising in the crypto-space, working with clients across the ecosystem from investors to exchanges.
The firm’s lawyers are adept at managing intricate disputes, whether in court or through alternative mechanisms, and are frequently engaged in high-stakes commercial cases. On the corporate front, the firm excels in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, corporate governance, and compliance, offering clients comprehensive legal advice tailored to their business objectives. TSMP is also known for its private client practice, where it provides bespoke solutions for wealth management, estate planning, and family business succession.
TSMP serves a wide range of industries, including banking and finance, construction and engineering, employment, corporate real estate, and private wealth. It is also expanding its focus into emerging sectors such as technology and fintech, positioning itself to address the legal challenges of digital transformation.
The TSMP team includes some of Singapore’s most respected legal professionals, including two senior counsels. Joint managing partner Thio Shen Yi SC is a leading figure in litigation and arbitration, known for his ability to navigate complex disputes. Joint managing partner Stefanie Yuen Thio is an illustrious corporate law specialist with a focus on capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance.
Other notable figures include Jeffrey Chan SC, disputes specialist Felicia Tan, who has contributed to high-profile discussions such as the Bukom Island shutdown, and employment specialist Ian Lim, who is recognized for his insights into workplace injury scams. The firm’s strength is further bolstered by experienced partners like construction specialists Derek Loh and Melvin Chan, and Jennifer Chia and Leon Lim in corporate law, as well as consultants like Professors Tang Hang Wu and Hans Tjio, who bring academic depth to their respective specialties.
Work highlights
Acted as legal counsel for a European bank in a substantial financing deal aimed at supporting the offshore operations of a Norwegian shipping company. The financing involves intricate cross-border elements across multiple jurisdictions.
Advised a fund in a refinancing deal with a total value of US$300 million. The financing is crucial for supporting the fund's ongoing investments in the logistics sector.
Advised a Singaporean bank in granting a S$72 million facility for the acquisition of a 6-storey commercial building in Singapore. The deal enhances the client’s portfolio in the real estate sector and involves complex regulatory considerations.
Wong Tan & Molly Lim (WT&ML) offers legal services to clients with international business interests and is focused on capital markets, M&A, banking and finance, and general commercial and corporate law. The firm entered into a formal alliance with Watson Farley & Williams in 2017, lending it a unique strength in contentious and advisory work related to the maritime and international trade sectors.
The banking group covers all areas of banking and finance, including secured and syndicated loan transactions and guarantees, structured finance and project finance. The firm has acted for many international banks in drafting and advising on standard form documentation for general banking transactions. The disputes team has seen a rise in cases involving cryptocurrencies and NFTs.
The firm's strengths lie in its experienced team, which consists of key individuals like joint managing partner Ong Beng Hong, who specializes in banking and finance, securities, and corporate advisory work. He is highly regarded for his insight into complex financial transactions. Joint managing director Tan Swee Gek brings extensive knowledge in M&As, capital markets, and corporate finance, while director Lee Yuan focuses on corporate and commercial law, enhancing the firm’s capabilities in handling sophisticated corporate transactions. Joint managing director Philip Ling helms the dispute resolution practice.
The firm is particularly known for its prowess in facilitating high-value mergers and acquisitions. Recent highlights include advising Green Esteel on its acquisition of HG Metal Manufacturing, a significant transaction in the steel industry valued at S$73.08 million. The firm is also recognized for its work in banking and finance, having acted as counsel in various high-profile credit agreements. For instance, the team recently represented Ecom Agroindustrial Asia in a substantial US$770 million credit agreement, demonstrating its capability to handle large-scale financing arrangements. WT&ML continues to grow and adapt to the evolving legal landscape. It recently expanded its practice areas to include more specialized sectors, positioning themselves to serve clients better in emerging industries.
Client feedback
"They are well-versed with listing requirements and provide sound professional advice." – Corporate and M&A
Beng Hong Ong
"Very professional and competent."
Work highlights
Acted for a Taiwan-based conglomerate on a series of $700 million loan facilities for the acquisition of vessels.
Advised a consortium of multinational lenders and mandated lead arrangers on a $305.6 million term loan facility for the acquisition of container vessels, including the registration of mortgages.
Assisted the Hong Kong subsidiary of a leading Asian export-import bank on a $200 million term loan facility granted to a Singapore gas group for the refinancing of five LPG carriers.
AEI Legal is a boutique firm with strong expertise in capital markets, corporate M&A, private equity, restructuring, and insolvency. The firm is particularly known for its hands-on approach in handling complex cross-border transactions and capital market deals that require a deep understanding of multiple regulatory environment. The team has significant experience advising underwriters and issuers on Singapore law matters while coordinating with international counsel. The main contact is managing director Andrea Chee.
Work highlights
Advised the underwriter for the BrilliA Group’s Nasdaq IPO.
Acted for the underwriter in the Nasdaq IPO of the Rectitude Group.
Aquinas Law Alliance is recognized for its expertise in corporate law, capital markets, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and dispute resolution. The firm has built a solid reputation by providing tailored legal solutions across various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and construction. Its robust corporate finance practice covers a wide range of capital markets work, making it highly active in primary listings, de-listings, privatisations, rights issues, bond issuances and secondary offerings.
The team is skilled in navigating the intricacies of Singapore’s regulatory landscape, making it a go-to advisor for companies looking to raise capital or comply with stringent listing requirements. The firm is also noted for its experience with transfer listings, which offers an alternative route for companies to enter the public market without the traditional IPO process.
The M&A practice is another cornerstone of the firm, led by joint managing partners Kok Meng Lim and Aloysius Wee. Lim specializes in corporate finance and securities, while Wee brings extensive knowledge in corporate governance and strategic transactions. Together, they have successfully guided numerous clients through significant acquisitions, restructurings, and joint ventures.
The firm's success is underscored by its impressive client roster, which includes major players in the healthcare, technology, and consumer goods sectors. Recent highlights include advising Camsing Healthcare on a significant investment deal and assisting T T J Holdings with the sale of its green energy business. The firm has also played a pivotal role in facilitating capital raises for various companies, demonstrating its strong capabilities in financial transactions.
Aquinas Law Alliance is not just focused on traditional legal services; it is actively expanding its influence in cross-border transactions, particularly involving Chinese clients. The firm has established strong ties with companies in China, helping them navigate the complexities of the Singapore market. This strategic focus on China-related transactions positions the firm uniquely in the region.
Recently, the firm added corporate and M&A specialist Nichola Koh. Her joining reflects the firm’s commitment to strengthening its practice areas and meeting the growing demands of clients in an evolving market. Additionally, the firm is actively involved in structuring various investment transactions, ensuring clients can capitalize on new opportunities.
Work highlights
Acted for Clearbridge Health on its renounceable non-underwritten rights issues, successfully raising S$2.479 million.
Assisted a public company with the placement of ordinary shares, generating around S$959,450 in gross proceeds.
Advised a client through the conversion of convertible bonds into ordinary shares, facilitating a smoother transition and financial restructuring.
Bird & Bird ATMD upholds its ‘Outstanding’ ranking with a strong intellectual property practice and expertise in the technology and telecommunications sector. Lorraine Tay and Alban Kang are key figures for IP. The firm is also active in capital markets, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, energy and labour and employment. This year it moves up in the energy table, and debuts in the construction and private equity categories. Marcus Chow, Sandra Seah and Beng Chai Tay are the main corporate partners at the firm. Jonathan Choo is a dispute resolution lawyer particularly active in international arbitration and Seow Hui Goh focuses on labour and employment.
Client feedback
“Extremely pragmatic and commercial, excellent attention to detail, but does not belabour legal points unnecessarily.” – Aviation
“Commercially sound while providing solid legal advice and willing to go the extra mile.” – Aviation
“Responsive, practical and commercial-oriented.” – Capital markets
“Proactive and responsible.” – Capital markets
“Responsive with the ability to anticipate and identify potential issues. Has the ability to propose solutions.” – Capital markets
“Fast and logical responses.” – Competition/antitrust
“Highly responsive and can devise value-adding solutions to commercial issues.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm's legal documents are sophisticated and can capture most legal issues that we need to mitigate or prevent. When there is an issue, they are quick to provide solutions.” – Corporate and M&A
“Staff are timely, dedicated, professional, responsive and client-oriented.” – Corporate and M&A
“Prompt and completed the work within the schedule.” – Corporate and M&A
“Professional and efficient.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, work effectively within time frame.” – Corporate and M&A
“It has comprehensive in-depth knowledge of the energy industry and thus is in position to provide good advice” – Energy
“The partner is helpful and turnaround time is quick. Great service.” – Intellectual property
“They are very responsive and the team has demonstrated in past projects their ability to deliver commercially sensible legal advice at very competitive fee quotes.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive, understands our business and our needs.” – Privacy and data protection
“Fast, reliable and a trusted partner.” – Private equity
“Completed the task promptly.” – Regulatory
Chua Lijun
“Receptive, fast responses and good knowledge of the relevant law and good understanding of the issues.”
Goh Seow Hui
“We value her professionalism, compassion for clients and humility.”
“Seow Hui did an outstanding job of understanding the client's needs. She advised me what was best for the client. She handled the case so swiftly to settle it amicably and moved on. I am impressed by her professionalism to take ownership after [another] lawyer left the firm. She took the responsibility of closing it. I am pleased with her customer service and compassion.”
Jeremy Tan
“Responsive, great attention to detail, he is client and results oriented.”
Jolie Giouw
“Highly responsive, she identifies the key issues quickly and comes out with solutions. We have always been impressed.”
“Excellent service-oriented mindset, has strong commercial acumen and able to advise well on the law.”
“Responsive and experienced. Able to provide prompt and quality advice and solutions.”
Lawrence Wong
“Communicates well to solve all the requirements requested by the SGX in Singapore.”
Leo Fattorini
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly. With counterparts he comes across very well without compromising our position.”
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly.”
“He has industry-wide knowledge of the Asian region, and is commercially savvy when it comes to negotiating with external parties.”
“Fast turnaround time and knowledgeable.”
Marcus Chow
“Marcus is knowledgeable in early-stage transactions and he is always available to the team to provide an opinion.”
“He is very smart and has extensive knowledge in venture capital investment as well as M&A.”
“Listens to what the client wants, and provides accurate suggestions and solutions.”
“Responsive, responsible and is able to communicate effectively with people of all levels.”
“Very commercial and good understanding of the client's needs.”
“Responsive, has ability to propose innovative solutions, and has good client relationship management.”
“Provides in-depth knowledge and advice to the board, resolving issues with advance steps taken.”
“Marcus was very responsive and can be depended on to deliver sound pragmatic advice, even outside of regular office hours. He is also quick to understand the commercial issues at hand, and propose solutions to address these issues.”
Sandrea Seah
“Very helpful and exhibits very good in-depth industrial knowledge. Gives very sound advice.”
“Professional, good listener, understands issues quickly and timely in responses.”
Work highlights
Advised SenseTime Group on its $700 million IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Acted for Viu International on its proposed listing in the US.
Representing Hyphen Group on its proposed listing via an acquisition by special purpose acquisition company, Provident Acquisition Corporation.
Key clients
JEP Holdings, LS 2 Holdings, Starburst Holdings, United Global, United Overseas Bank
Founded in 2016, Covenant Chambers has built a strong reputation in several key practice areas, including dispute resolution, corporate and M&A, and capital markets. The firm's lawyers are recognised for their deep subject-matter expertise, strategic advisory capabilities, and ability to handle complex, high-stakes matters. The firm leverages digital automation to serve clients on technology-driven advisory and strategic solutions.
For dispute resolution, the firm has an impressive track record of success, particularly in handling multi-jurisdictional disputes involving allegations of conspiracy, breach of fiduciary duties, and intellectual property infringement. The team works with individuals, as well as institutional clients and businesses across a range of industries on contentious corporate commercial, IP and employment matters, among others.
The team's in-depth understanding of emerging technologies like cryptocurrency and digital assets has enabled them to navigate novel legal issues and achieve favourable outcomes for clients. For example, the firm recently represented a group of over 80 claimants in a multi-million-dollar claim against a cryptocurrency exchange operator, successfully obtaining summary judgment that was upheld on appeal.
The corporate and M&A practice is fairly new but rapidly growing under the leadership of Pei Tong Ng, who joined the firm in early 2025 from Drew & Napier. Ng has extensive experience advising on high-profile M&A transactions, public company takeovers, and capital markets deals across a diverse range of industries, including technology, telecommunications, infrastructure and consumer goods. The capital markets team is also spearheaded by Ng. It has demonstrated its ability to navigate complex regulatory requirements and facilitate successful fundraising exercises for clients.
The firm is helmed by managing director Ee Yang Lee and deputy managing director Ronald JJ Wong. Lee is a contentious real estate expert, while Wong has a strength in technology disputes. They lead a team of no less than eight senior practitioners, including four directors and four associate directors.
Work highlights
Represented The Trendlines Group on its $3.9 million rights issue as well as its $4.6 million placement.
Advised TMK Chemical on its $385 million initial public offering on the Bursa Malaysia.
As one of Singapore’s ‘Big Four’ law firms, Drew & Napier possesses a diverse roster of lawyers offering an extensive range of legal services in Singapore and across the region. The firm remains a dispute resolution powerhouse with a deep bench of top advocates including Jimmy Yim and Cavinder Bull. Construction specialist Christopher Chong, regulatory doyenne Corinne Chew and elite tax practitioner Ong Sim Ho further reinforce the team. Other key names to note include Pauline Chong for finance, Petrus Huang for capital markets, Chong Kin Lim for competition and technology, Steven Lo for corporate and M&A, Tony Yeo for IP, and Sushil Nair and Blossom Hing for restructuring and insolvency. Consultant Gary Pryke is another well-known practitioner in the development and implementation of a licensing, regulatory and competition framework for the liberalisation of the Bruneian postal sector corporate and finance space.
Client feedback
"Incredibly professional and to the point, advocating for the client and pointing out blindspots for the client." – Corporate and M&A
"The team demonstrated a deep knowledge of the subject matters and was responsive, quickly addressing concerns and providing timely advice throughout the process. They maintained a high standard of professionalism, ensuring their conduct was exemplary at all times. Their client-centric approach prioritized our interests, tailoring their services to meet our specific needs effectively.
“Effective communication was evident as they clearly articulated legal concepts, making them accessible and understandable. They actively represented our interests, showcasing strong advocacy skills. Additionally, their problem-solving skills were apparent as they demonstrated creativity in finding solutions to potential roadblocks during the process. The team maintain a strong reputation within the industry, which added credibility to our efforts. Finally, their collaborative spirit fostered a cooperative environment, allowing for successful outcomes as they worked well with our team.” – Investment funds
"Technically strong, collaborative in a distress situation to find a workable solution for stakeholders. Tough but reasonable." – Restructuring and insolvency
Wei Meng Chan
"Experienced in insolvency, hard-working and always accessible for advice. Technically sound, commercial-minded, thinks out-of-the box and responsive."
Ron Cheng
"Ron demonstrated strong expertise and strategic thinking, effectively enhancing our position. Clear communication and responsiveness ensured that our interests were prioritized, while his professionalism and strong advocacy fostered a respectful and collaborative atmosphere. Worked effectively with our team and creativity in overcoming challenges and finding effective solutions and alternatives."
Blossom Hing
"Blossom is an outstanding leader of her team and has gone from strength to strength since her elevation to senior counsel. Blossom is 100% dedicated to her clients and to achieving results for them. She is creative and highly experienced while also being pragmatic and user-friendly."
Julian Kwek
"Julian is an intelligent and creative problem-solver who always makes sure to understand his clients' objectives and concerns in developing effective strategies in their complicated cross-border restructuring matters."
Wendell Wong
"Wendell is the consummate legal adviser, fully committed to his clients, dedicated to his craft, professional in his dealings with counterparties and respected by the courts. He leads a team of talented lawyers who are committed to his exacting service standards."
Tony Yeo
"Tony is very detailed in the legal work and has a well-trained team under him. Tony takes all issues seriously and will leave no stones unturned. Reasonable fees with exceptional results."
Work highlights
Advised TMK Chemical on its IPO on Bursa Malaysia, where it raised RM385 million ($91 million).
Acted for IBM International Capital on its multi-billion-dollar bond issuance, one of the largest bond sales ever conducted by a Singapore-incorporated issuer.
Duane Morris & Selvam provides a range of legal services to assist clients in banking and finance, capital markets, corporate and M&A, construction and dispute resolution. The firm is regularly instructed by Korean, Chinese and Indian companies on various banking and regulatory matters. Key figures include Jamie Benson for capital markets, Leon Yee for corporate and M&A, and Sarbjit Singh Chopra for dispute resolution. The firm welcomed litigation and arbitration director Clement Tan from Singapore’s state courts.
Work highlights
Acted for the president of India and Life Insurance Corporation of India in relation to its India IPO. This will be the largest IPO in Indian history.
Represented Elara Capital, IIFL Securities, Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors, and Yes Securities on the QIP of Union Bank of India.
Advised ICICI Securities, Nomura and UBS on Sansera Engineering’s IPO.
Key clients
Ambit Private, Arvind Fashions, Axis Capital, Equirus Capital
Icon Law is focused specifically on corporate-related work, including equity capital markets, investments, M&A, employment, privacy, funds and corporate administration. Launched in late 2022, it is an evolution of the former Singapore member firm of the ZICO Law network and is currently being integrated into KPMG. It is ZICO's new Singapore member firm and has “best friend” status with KPMG Law in Singapore.
The firm is helmed by managing director Chun Bin Soh and director Jeremiah Huang.
Work highlights
Represented Carsome on its fundraising round in 2023.
Advised Noco-Noco on its de-spac, one of the first few of this type involving a Singapore company.
Key clients
Global Holdings, Hyphens Pharma International, ISOTeam, Swettenham Capital
Wong Tan & Molly Lim (WT&ML) offers legal services to clients with international business interests and is focused on capital markets, M&A, banking and finance, and general commercial and corporate law. The firm entered into a formal alliance with Watson Farley & Williams in 2017, lending it a unique strength in contentious and advisory work related to the maritime and international trade sectors.
The banking group covers all areas of banking and finance, including secured and syndicated loan transactions and guarantees, structured finance and project finance. The firm has acted for many international banks in drafting and advising on standard form documentation for general banking transactions. The disputes team has seen a rise in cases involving cryptocurrencies and NFTs.
The firm's strengths lie in its experienced team, which consists of key individuals like joint managing partner Ong Beng Hong, who specializes in banking and finance, securities, and corporate advisory work. He is highly regarded for his insight into complex financial transactions. Joint managing director Tan Swee Gek brings extensive knowledge in M&As, capital markets, and corporate finance, while director Lee Yuan focuses on corporate and commercial law, enhancing the firm’s capabilities in handling sophisticated corporate transactions. Joint managing director Philip Ling helms the dispute resolution practice.
The firm is particularly known for its prowess in facilitating high-value mergers and acquisitions. Recent highlights include advising Green Esteel on its acquisition of HG Metal Manufacturing, a significant transaction in the steel industry valued at S$73.08 million. The firm is also recognized for its work in banking and finance, having acted as counsel in various high-profile credit agreements. For instance, the team recently represented Ecom Agroindustrial Asia in a substantial US$770 million credit agreement, demonstrating its capability to handle large-scale financing arrangements. WT&ML continues to grow and adapt to the evolving legal landscape. It recently expanded its practice areas to include more specialized sectors, positioning themselves to serve clients better in emerging industries.
Client feedback
"They are well-versed with listing requirements and provide sound professional advice." – Corporate and M&A
Beng Hong Ong
"Very professional and competent."
Work highlights
Advised a domestic corporate finance firm as the sponsor, issue manager, underwriter and placement agent on the $25 million listing of Food Innovators Holdings. This was one of only four listings on the Singapore Exchange in 2024.
Represented a client in a rights issue worth S$19.5 million, enhancing the client's working capital and strategic positioning in the market.
Dentons Rodyk & Davidson is one of Singapore’s largest full-service firms, stacked with notable partners who are experts in their fields. The firm has stellar banking, construction, disputes, competition, and technology and telecommunications practices. The firm is recognised for its robust capabilities in handling complex, high-stakes transactions and disputes across these areas. Its combination with Dentons, the largest law firm in the world, provides clients with an extensive network of global experts from over 200 offices around the world in more than 80 countries.
Partners to note include banking specialist Doreen Sim, M&A partner Eng Leng Ng, IP specialists Ai Ming Lee and I-An Lim, construction experts Kia Jeng Koh and Kirindeep Singh, insurance director Edric Pan, projects expert Joo Thye Tan, disputes specialist Lawrence Teh, and senior counsel Edmund Leow.
Work highlights
Advised a leading poultry producer on its compliance strategies with the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore, helping to mitigate risks associated with market operations.
As one of Singapore’s ‘Big Four’ law firms, Drew & Napier possesses a diverse roster of lawyers offering an extensive range of legal services in Singapore and across the region. The firm remains a dispute resolution powerhouse with a deep bench of top advocates including Jimmy Yim and Cavinder Bull. Construction specialist Christopher Chong, regulatory doyenne Corinne Chew and elite tax practitioner Ong Sim Ho further reinforce the team. Other key names to note include Pauline Chong for finance, Petrus Huang for capital markets, Chong Kin Lim for competition and technology, Steven Lo for corporate and M&A, Tony Yeo for IP, and Sushil Nair and Blossom Hing for restructuring and insolvency. Consultant Gary Pryke is another well-known practitioner in the development and implementation of a licensing, regulatory and competition framework for the liberalisation of the Bruneian postal sector corporate and finance space.
Client feedback
"Incredibly professional and to the point, advocating for the client and pointing out blindspots for the client." – Corporate and M&A
"The team demonstrated a deep knowledge of the subject matters and was responsive, quickly addressing concerns and providing timely advice throughout the process. They maintained a high standard of professionalism, ensuring their conduct was exemplary at all times. Their client-centric approach prioritized our interests, tailoring their services to meet our specific needs effectively.
“Effective communication was evident as they clearly articulated legal concepts, making them accessible and understandable. They actively represented our interests, showcasing strong advocacy skills. Additionally, their problem-solving skills were apparent as they demonstrated creativity in finding solutions to potential roadblocks during the process. The team maintain a strong reputation within the industry, which added credibility to our efforts. Finally, their collaborative spirit fostered a cooperative environment, allowing for successful outcomes as they worked well with our team.” – Investment funds
"Technically strong, collaborative in a distress situation to find a workable solution for stakeholders. Tough but reasonable." – Restructuring and insolvency
Wei Meng Chan
"Experienced in insolvency, hard-working and always accessible for advice. Technically sound, commercial-minded, thinks out-of-the box and responsive."
Ron Cheng
"Ron demonstrated strong expertise and strategic thinking, effectively enhancing our position. Clear communication and responsiveness ensured that our interests were prioritized, while his professionalism and strong advocacy fostered a respectful and collaborative atmosphere. Worked effectively with our team and creativity in overcoming challenges and finding effective solutions and alternatives."
Blossom Hing
"Blossom is an outstanding leader of her team and has gone from strength to strength since her elevation to senior counsel. Blossom is 100% dedicated to her clients and to achieving results for them. She is creative and highly experienced while also being pragmatic and user-friendly."
Julian Kwek
"Julian is an intelligent and creative problem-solver who always makes sure to understand his clients' objectives and concerns in developing effective strategies in their complicated cross-border restructuring matters."
Wendell Wong
"Wendell is the consummate legal adviser, fully committed to his clients, dedicated to his craft, professional in his dealings with counterparties and respected by the courts. He leads a team of talented lawyers who are committed to his exacting service standards."
Tony Yeo
"Tony is very detailed in the legal work and has a well-trained team under him. Tony takes all issues seriously and will leave no stones unturned. Reasonable fees with exceptional results."
Work highlights
Defended an engineering and construction company against proposed infringement decisions from the Singapore competition authority.
Key clients
Aboitiz Equity Ventures, ATH Holdings, Bulten Holding, Chuan Hup Holdings, Dale Ventures, Flame Gold International, IBS Software, Metis Energy, MOL Chemical Tankers, THM Partners, Yokogawa Electric Corporation
A formidable market leader in the full gamut of corporate and finance matters, WongPartnership comprises over 300 lawyers in eight global cities. It offers extensive experience in handling high-stakes structured finance, M&A, funds, private equity, project finance and syndicated loans. The firm also has plentiful expertise on big-ticket domestic and cross-border disputes involving corporate, construction, insolvency and regulatory matters. Key lawyers include Susan Wong for banking and finance, Ameera Ashraf for competition, Andrew Ang and Wai King Ng for corporate and M&A and private equity, Alvin Yeo and Koh Swee Yen SC for dispute resolution, and Manoj Pillay Sandrasegara for restructuring and insolvency. In addition, Chung Nian Lam, Kah Keong Low, Jenny Tsin and Dorothy Marie Ng are regarded for their work in IP, investment funds, employment and real estate, respectively.
Client feedback
"Highly professional, deep and wide bench of dedicated talent with a strong commitment to deliver." – Banking and finance
"Very committed, responsive and highly professional across the team." – Real estate
"The team provides in-depth analysis of issues with practical solutions." – Real estate
Monica Yip
"She has a deep and strong knowledge of the sector and always goes the extra mile to help us resolve issues and ensure that her client's interests are met within the commercial environment. Meets tight timelines."
"She knows exactly what issues we are facing from first engagement and gives both in-depth and practical advice."
Work highlights
Acted for CapitaLand Investment on global merger filings for its acquisition of SC Capital Partners.
Assisted Eu Yan Sang on the competition aspects of its sale to Mitsui.
Established in late 2023, Christopher Chuah Law Chambers is a rapidly growing boutique law firm in Singapore that specialises in construction and infrastructure law. The firm is known for its strong expertise in construction arbitration and offering clients comprehensive legal support throughout a project’s life cycle. This includes procurement strategy, contract structuring, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. The firm is led by highly-regarded managing director Christopher Chuah, who is hailed for his prominence in construction disputes. He has successfully navigated numerous high-profile cases that have shaped Singapore's legal landscape. Director Hwai Bin Lee is another name to note.
Work highlights
Represented a Singaporean equipment supplier in a landmark case against Builders Hub, which clarified significant aspects of the Building and Construction Security of Payment Act. The firm successfully set aside an adjudication determination on grounds of fraud.
Advised in the Integrated Waste Management Facility project.
CMS Holborn Asia houses a number of renowned specialist lawyers, such as construction experts Kelvin Aw and Lynette Chew, employment director Lakshanthi Fernando, as well as IP and TMT-focused Sheena Jacob. The firm is particularly known for its sector focus across technology, healthcare, life science, media, consumer goods and services, and infrastructure. It has a robust portfolio of managing large-scale construction projects and disputes.
Work highlights
Advised a Korean construction company in a SIAC arbitration against a specialist mechanical and electrical subcontractor in relation to a major mixed-use development, being one of the largest shopping malls in Singapore.
Represented Cluny Development in relation to disputes arising out of a residential property development project in Singapore.
Dentons Rodyk & Davidson is one of Singapore’s largest full-service firms, stacked with notable partners who are experts in their fields. The firm has stellar banking, construction, disputes, competition, and technology and telecommunications practices. The firm is recognised for its robust capabilities in handling complex, high-stakes transactions and disputes across these areas. Its combination with Dentons, the largest law firm in the world, provides clients with an extensive network of global experts from over 200 offices around the world in more than 80 countries.
Partners to note include banking specialist Doreen Sim, M&A partner Eng Leng Ng, IP specialists Ai Ming Lee and I-An Lim, construction experts Kia Jeng Koh and Kirindeep Singh, insurance director Edric Pan, projects expert Joo Thye Tan, disputes specialist Lawrence Teh, and senior counsel Edmund Leow.
Work highlights
Defended a major construction firm against significant claims related to design defects in a large-scale project.
Represented a prominent architectural firm in a lawsuit concerning alleged construction defects.
Harry Elias Partnership has offices in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. Built upon one of the most respected and influential litigation lawyers in the country, the late Harry Elias, the firm has an established reputation for its dispute resolution and family and matrimonial expertise. The firm is also notable for its construction, infrastructure, corporate and M&A, and intellectual property practices. Philip Fong, S Suressh, Justin Chia, Siew Fong Foo, Yvonne Foo, Pearl Lim and Claudia Teo are key contacts for dispute resolution, restructuring and insolvency, family and matrimonial, construction, banking, and corporate and M&A, respectively.
Work highlights
Advises on claims against contractors of the Marina East Desalination Plant for delays and defects.
Advising on various claims arising from the Changi Airport T5 operationalisation delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Legis Point is an established law firm that focuses on several key practice areas, including banking, construction, dispute resolution, M&A, and labour and employment. The firm's diverse client base includes multinational corporations, financial institutions and established local companies across various industries. In the labour and employment space, the group has advised clients on a range of matters, including regulatory compliance, employment restructuring and wrongful dismissal claims. The key contact is seasoned dispute resolution and arbitration specialist Samuel Chacko. Other team members to note include director Chee Foong Young and associate directors Minghao Ang, Michelle Loh and Paul Tan.
Client feedback
"We have been consistently impressed with Legis Point's expertise in construction law and adjudication. Their ability to provide thoughtful advice that balances our commercial objectives with legal considerations has been invaluable." – Construction
"Legis Point patiently hears our issues, understands them, clearly explains and proposes possible options on the approach and strategies to be adopted." – Dispute resolution
Samuel Chacko
"Samuel excels with his polished communication skills, in-depth knowledge and quick thinking."
"Samuel has deep understanding and ability not only to visualize technical construction details, but he also identifies facts, interprets complex drawings, from which he constructs logical arguments. He thoroughly researches legal issues to support the case he is working on. He intelligently articulates his stance when negotiating settlements and agreements with his opposite number."
Work highlights
Represented an established contractor and developer in a multi-party arbitration against employers regarding the construction of a luxury bungalow, navigating intricate legal issues related to the interpretation of construction contracts and the role of the project architect.
Advised a prominent piling and engineering contractor on claims against a main contractor for outstanding payments and breach of contract arising from multiple public sector projects involving pipe-jacking works.
Established in 2018, LIMN Law Corporation has a strong track record of excellence for contentious construction matters. The firm climbs into the ‘Recognised’ tier for construction this year. Key partner John Lim is an experienced litigator with specialisms in construction and engineering and infrastructure projects such as mass rapid transit projects, hotels, specialised warehouses and residential developments. Lim also has front-end drafting capability. The firm’s clientele includes established local owners, developers, contractors and consultants as well as award-winning interior design firms.
Work highlights
Advised an owner of a flatted factory, an industrial products supplier, in a dispute with the main contractor over progress payments.
Acted for a lift installation sub-contractor in a claim against Kone, an international engineering and service company.
Representing a subsidiary proprietor in disputing the quantum of compensation pursuant to a land acquisition before the Appeals Board.
Founded in 2017 by senior counsel Lok Vi Ming, LVM Law Chambers is a respected, mid-sized disputes boutique offering a comprehensive range of dispute resolution services spanning commercial litigation, construction, insurance, media and telecommunications, tax, mediation, real estate, regulatory and white-collar matters. 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 and has been quite active for these clients in the construction, technology, infrastructure and PE sectors. The firm added shipping capabilities to its growing array of specialisms, with the hiring of former Incisive Law director, Mohd Haireez. Managing director Lok Vi Ming leads an experienced team that includes construction specialists Joseph Lee and Waltan Pak. The team also welcomed the arrival of director Jean Chan from the Singapore High Court to bolster its white-collar crime and regulatory offering. Construction expert Joanna Seetoh departed last year for Harry Elias Partnership.
Client feedback
“LVM is very proactive in providing practical solutions to the client. LVM does not only advise on the legal aspect, but they really help the client to choose the 'best' route to achieve the best outcome possible, given the commercial circumstances.” – Dispute resolution
“They have lawyers who are intelligent, attentive and know their specialised areas well.” – Dispute resolution
“The firm is able to distil complex issues to distinct bitesize chunks and tackle each of these pointedly. They have the grit and soft skills to disarm the defendants with finesse. They deliver par excellence.” – Dispute resolution
“The lawyers are professional and knowledgeable on the case; they were able to find the supporting evidence in the court documents to defend my case.” – Private client
“Responsive and experienced team, able to pull in senior counsel when required.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Honest, quick and frank.” – Shipping
“Quick response and practical advice.” – Shipping
Mohd Haireez
“Able to provide quick and concise advice.”
“Solid legal and sector knowledge, attentive and meticulous.”
“Hard-working, efficient, brilliant and affable.”
Jonathan Muk
“Jonathan has very good legal knowledge as well as industry knowledge, to provide the client with practical advice. He is also very responsive to clients’ queries.”
“Jonathan not only listens, he does his homework and always researches thoroughly. He is always accessible and he responds to queries promptly. He keeps tabs on costs and timeline diligently.”
Huey Hien Ooi
“Responsive, detailed and diligent.”
Michelle Yeo
“She is hardworking and well-versed in knowledge on my case.”
Work highlights
Assisted Fajarbaru Builders to enforce the arbitral award of a Malaysian court order in Singapore against the individual defendant.
Representing Laud Architects and one of its directors in an ongoing dispute commenced in the Singapore High Court by SH Design and Build.
TSMP Law Corporation is a prestigious, mid-sized law firm renowned for its expertise in dispute resolution, corporate law, and private client services. Recognized for its strategic and innovative approach, the firm effectively handles complex legal issues for a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations, local businesses, and high-net-worth individuals. The firm not only acts for various major corporations and financial institutions but also is frequently sought out by different regulatory bodies.
A key strength of TSMP lies in its dispute resolution capabilities, particularly in litigation and arbitration. The dispute resolution practice proudly states that it takes on difficult cases, ones that test, shape or advance the law. The disputes team covers the full gamut of litigation and arbitration, notably complex commercial and corporate litigation with a focus on boardroom, shareholder and investment disputes. There is additionally a growing practice specialising in the crypto-space, working with clients across the ecosystem from investors to exchanges.
The firm’s lawyers are adept at managing intricate disputes, whether in court or through alternative mechanisms, and are frequently engaged in high-stakes commercial cases. On the corporate front, the firm excels in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, corporate governance, and compliance, offering clients comprehensive legal advice tailored to their business objectives. TSMP is also known for its private client practice, where it provides bespoke solutions for wealth management, estate planning, and family business succession.
TSMP serves a wide range of industries, including banking and finance, construction and engineering, employment, corporate real estate, and private wealth. It is also expanding its focus into emerging sectors such as technology and fintech, positioning itself to address the legal challenges of digital transformation.
The TSMP team includes some of Singapore’s most respected legal professionals, including two senior counsels. Joint managing partner Thio Shen Yi SC is a leading figure in litigation and arbitration, known for his ability to navigate complex disputes. Joint managing partner Stefanie Yuen Thio is an illustrious corporate law specialist with a focus on capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance.
Other notable figures include Jeffrey Chan SC, disputes specialist Felicia Tan, who has contributed to high-profile discussions such as the Bukom Island shutdown, and employment specialist Ian Lim, who is recognized for his insights into workplace injury scams. The firm’s strength is further bolstered by experienced partners like construction specialists Derek Loh and Melvin Chan, and Jennifer Chia and Leon Lim in corporate law, as well as consultants like Professors Tang Hang Wu and Hans Tjio, who bring academic depth to their respective specialties.
Work highlights
Acted for a Korean MNC in an ongoing dispute with a residential management corporation over alleged defects in construction. The matter involves claims of approximately S$1 billion.
Represented a Korean chaebol in a dispute related to alleged delays and breaches in the construction of a healthcare facility.
Advised a Singaporean developer in various disputes related to the construction of the Punggol Digital District. The project holds strategic importance for Singapore’s urban development and involves multiple stakeholders.
Aquinas Law Alliance is recognized for its expertise in corporate law, capital markets, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and dispute resolution. The firm has built a solid reputation by providing tailored legal solutions across various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and construction. Its robust corporate finance practice covers a wide range of capital markets work, making it highly active in primary listings, de-listings, privatisations, rights issues, bond issuances and secondary offerings.
The team is skilled in navigating the intricacies of Singapore’s regulatory landscape, making it a go-to advisor for companies looking to raise capital or comply with stringent listing requirements. The firm is also noted for its experience with transfer listings, which offers an alternative route for companies to enter the public market without the traditional IPO process.
The M&A practice is another cornerstone of the firm, led by joint managing partners Kok Meng Lim and Aloysius Wee. Lim specializes in corporate finance and securities, while Wee brings extensive knowledge in corporate governance and strategic transactions. Together, they have successfully guided numerous clients through significant acquisitions, restructurings, and joint ventures.
The firm's success is underscored by its impressive client roster, which includes major players in the healthcare, technology, and consumer goods sectors. Recent highlights include advising Camsing Healthcare on a significant investment deal and assisting T T J Holdings with the sale of its green energy business. The firm has also played a pivotal role in facilitating capital raises for various companies, demonstrating its strong capabilities in financial transactions.
Aquinas Law Alliance is not just focused on traditional legal services; it is actively expanding its influence in cross-border transactions, particularly involving Chinese clients. The firm has established strong ties with companies in China, helping them navigate the complexities of the Singapore market. This strategic focus on China-related transactions positions the firm uniquely in the region.
Recently, the firm added corporate and M&A specialist Nichola Koh. Her joining reflects the firm’s commitment to strengthening its practice areas and meeting the growing demands of clients in an evolving market. Additionally, the firm is actively involved in structuring various investment transactions, ensuring clients can capitalize on new opportunities.
Work highlights
Represented a Singaporean construction and engineering company on the sale and purchase agreement of its green energy business.
Assisted in the proposed management buyout of a domestic engineering and design firm.
Supported a China-based tech client in structuring an investment in a Singapore-based tech target.
Asia Practice is a corporate and finance-focused firm with experience in the projects and shipping space. The firm’s clients include corporations and financial institutions including export credit agencies and other state-owned banks and leasing subsidiaries. It works with borrowers and other market players on transactions including container leasing, asset-backed securitisation and ECA-supported financing. The firm is adept at advising on regulatory matters relating to the financial industry, particularly to clients in the fintech, wealthtech and startups sectors. Chien Herr Lee is the main partner for corporate and M&A, while Jonathan Tan and Leon Low lead its banking and finance practice. Associate director Marc Teh brings further strength to the finance team.
Work highlights
Advised a China-based water company on the strategic acquisition of the photovoltaic silver paste business division from the Heraeus Group
Assisted on the acquisition of a local veterinary clinic by Moki And Co.
Atlas Asia Law Corporation is a Singapore law firm in association with EY. The firm has a team of five directors and eight associates active in acquisitions, investments and divestments as well as private equity across various sectors including fintech, logistics, real estate, insurance, education and healthcare. The team is experienced in providing strategic advisory services in complex corporate transactions, mergers and reorganisations. The team is led by managing director, corporate and PE specialist Kenneth Cheow. Director Kayleigh Wee is another key contact.
Work highlights
Advised a New Zealand-based multinational on its corporate reorganisation exercise in Singapore, facilitating the transfer of business assets and the merger of key entities within the group.
Assisted a French MNC on its corporate reorganisation in Singapore, which included the transfer of shares and the subsequent merger of associated entities to streamline operations.
Bird & Bird ATMD upholds its ‘Outstanding’ ranking with a strong intellectual property practice and expertise in the technology and telecommunications sector. Lorraine Tay and Alban Kang are key figures for IP. The firm is also active in capital markets, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, energy and labour and employment. This year it moves up in the energy table, and debuts in the construction and private equity categories. Marcus Chow, Sandra Seah and Beng Chai Tay are the main corporate partners at the firm. Jonathan Choo is a dispute resolution lawyer particularly active in international arbitration and Seow Hui Goh focuses on labour and employment.
Client feedback
“Extremely pragmatic and commercial, excellent attention to detail, but does not belabour legal points unnecessarily.” – Aviation
“Commercially sound while providing solid legal advice and willing to go the extra mile.” – Aviation
“Responsive, practical and commercial-oriented.” – Capital markets
“Proactive and responsible.” – Capital markets
“Responsive with the ability to anticipate and identify potential issues. Has the ability to propose solutions.” – Capital markets
“Fast and logical responses.” – Competition/antitrust
“Highly responsive and can devise value-adding solutions to commercial issues.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm's legal documents are sophisticated and can capture most legal issues that we need to mitigate or prevent. When there is an issue, they are quick to provide solutions.” – Corporate and M&A
“Staff are timely, dedicated, professional, responsive and client-oriented.” – Corporate and M&A
“Prompt and completed the work within the schedule.” – Corporate and M&A
“Professional and efficient.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, work effectively within time frame.” – Corporate and M&A
“It has comprehensive in-depth knowledge of the energy industry and thus is in position to provide good advice” – Energy
“The partner is helpful and turnaround time is quick. Great service.” – Intellectual property
“They are very responsive and the team has demonstrated in past projects their ability to deliver commercially sensible legal advice at very competitive fee quotes.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive, understands our business and our needs.” – Privacy and data protection
“Fast, reliable and a trusted partner.” – Private equity
“Completed the task promptly.” – Regulatory
Chua Lijun
“Receptive, fast responses and good knowledge of the relevant law and good understanding of the issues.”
Goh Seow Hui
“We value her professionalism, compassion for clients and humility.”
“Seow Hui did an outstanding job of understanding the client's needs. She advised me what was best for the client. She handled the case so swiftly to settle it amicably and moved on. I am impressed by her professionalism to take ownership after [another] lawyer left the firm. She took the responsibility of closing it. I am pleased with her customer service and compassion.”
Jeremy Tan
“Responsive, great attention to detail, he is client and results oriented.”
Jolie Giouw
“Highly responsive, she identifies the key issues quickly and comes out with solutions. We have always been impressed.”
“Excellent service-oriented mindset, has strong commercial acumen and able to advise well on the law.”
“Responsive and experienced. Able to provide prompt and quality advice and solutions.”
Lawrence Wong
“Communicates well to solve all the requirements requested by the SGX in Singapore.”
Leo Fattorini
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly. With counterparts he comes across very well without compromising our position.”
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly.”
“He has industry-wide knowledge of the Asian region, and is commercially savvy when it comes to negotiating with external parties.”
“Fast turnaround time and knowledgeable.”
Marcus Chow
“Marcus is knowledgeable in early-stage transactions and he is always available to the team to provide an opinion.”
“He is very smart and has extensive knowledge in venture capital investment as well as M&A.”
“Listens to what the client wants, and provides accurate suggestions and solutions.”
“Responsive, responsible and is able to communicate effectively with people of all levels.”
“Very commercial and good understanding of the client's needs.”
“Responsive, has ability to propose innovative solutions, and has good client relationship management.”
“Provides in-depth knowledge and advice to the board, resolving issues with advance steps taken.”
“Marcus was very responsive and can be depended on to deliver sound pragmatic advice, even outside of regular office hours. He is also quick to understand the commercial issues at hand, and propose solutions to address these issues.”
Sandrea Seah
“Very helpful and exhibits very good in-depth industrial knowledge. Gives very sound advice.”
“Professional, good listener, understands issues quickly and timely in responses.”
Work highlights
Advised Ingram Micro on its $7.2 billion acquisition by Platinum Equity.
Acted for KludeIn I Acquisition Corporation on its merger with Near Intelligence Holdings.
Assisted Blockchain.com Group Holdings’ cash and stock acquisition of Altonomy.
Key clients
90 Seconds, CurrencyFair, EV Growth, LYS Energy Solutions, Treis Asia
Founded in 2016, Covenant Chambers has built a strong reputation in several key practice areas, including dispute resolution, corporate and M&A, and capital markets. The firm's lawyers are recognised for their deep subject-matter expertise, strategic advisory capabilities, and ability to handle complex, high-stakes matters. The firm leverages digital automation to serve clients on technology-driven advisory and strategic solutions.
For dispute resolution, the firm has an impressive track record of success, particularly in handling multi-jurisdictional disputes involving allegations of conspiracy, breach of fiduciary duties, and intellectual property infringement. The team works with individuals, as well as institutional clients and businesses across a range of industries on contentious corporate commercial, IP and employment matters, among others.
The team's in-depth understanding of emerging technologies like cryptocurrency and digital assets has enabled them to navigate novel legal issues and achieve favourable outcomes for clients. For example, the firm recently represented a group of over 80 claimants in a multi-million-dollar claim against a cryptocurrency exchange operator, successfully obtaining summary judgment that was upheld on appeal.
The corporate and M&A practice is fairly new but rapidly growing under the leadership of Pei Tong Ng, who joined the firm in early 2025 from Drew & Napier. Ng has extensive experience advising on high-profile M&A transactions, public company takeovers, and capital markets deals across a diverse range of industries, including technology, telecommunications, infrastructure and consumer goods. The capital markets team is also spearheaded by Ng. It has demonstrated its ability to navigate complex regulatory requirements and facilitate successful fundraising exercises for clients.
The firm is helmed by managing director Ee Yang Lee and deputy managing director Ronald JJ Wong. Lee is a contentious real estate expert, while Wong has a strength in technology disputes. They lead a team of no less than eight senior practitioners, including four directors and four associate directors.
Work highlights
Acted for Nera Telecommunications on a $27 million mandatory cash offer by Ennoconn Corporation.
Advised a Singapore-based property developer on its proposed acquisition of land in Malaysia.
Eng and Co, PwC Legal’s member firm in Singapore, provides corporate and commercial legal services to financial institutions, corporates, funds and private clients. This year it moves up the ranks in the capital markets and investment fund tables. Founding partner Rachel Eng, who has nearly 30 years of corporate experience, offers clients a one-stop service covering the capital markets, corporate and M&A, investment funds and labour and employment. Directors Andrew Heng, Lynn Soh, Colin Ong and Yuh Huey Khoo are other key contacts.
Client feedback
“Professional, fast and effective.” – Corporate and M&A
“Responsive, capable and measured.” – Corporate and M&A
“Their turnaround time is quite quick and their responses are generally professional. The senior lawyer is fairly involved in the advisory process which is assuring when being advised by the firm.” – Regulatory
“Prompt, responsive and professional.” – Technology and telecommunications
Andrew Heng
“He is perfect.”
“Andrew is always responsive, measured and knowledgeable.”
Yuh Huey Khoo
“Attends to the matter promptly and has good initiative. Good follow-up and meets requested timelines.”
Lynn Soh
“Responsible, thorough and highly knowledgeable.”
Work highlights
Advised Boustead Singapore on its voluntary general offer to acquire, privatise and delist its real estate subsidiary, Boustead Projects.
Acted for YCP Holdings Global on its acquisition of Auctus Advisors Private.
Represented Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation on its acquisition of 13.63% of Indo Trans Logistics Corporation in Vietnam from funds managed by Franklin Templeton.
The corporate department at FC Legal Asia advises on business and asset acquisitions across various industries as well as the structuring of joint ventures and resolving disputes between joint venture partners. The firm has strong expertise in equity and quasi-equity investments across various industries, including early to late-stage fundraising rounds, and business and asset acquisitions. Senior director Chan Wan Hong is the key contact for corporate and M&A transactions.
Client feedback
"FC Legal Asia stands out for its strong expertise in M&A transactions, particularly in reviewing and advising on SPAs, SHAs, and completion of documents. The firm is thorough, practical, and highly responsive, offering clear legal advice that is aligned with commercial objectives. Their ability to handle cross-border matters – especially involving Vietnam – and to support clients throughout the entire transaction process adds significant value. Their solution-oriented approach and attention to detail make them a reliable legal partner for complex share sales." – Corporate and M&A
"The firm understands the company’s operations matters and legal implications and is able to advise the client in a pragmatic manner." – Corporate and M&A
"Professional, extensive experience in the field, attentive customer service." – Dispute resolution
Maw Shen Foo
“Very experienced, sharp, knowledgeable and pragmatic in approach. The best attribute is his honesty and he will not pursue any case where he is of the opinion that the cost outweighs the benefits."
Wan Hong Chan
"Professional, extensive experience, attentive, responsive, able to work on complex cases."
"Very professional, knowledgeable, responsible and can be trusted."
"Friendly, professional, knowledgeable thinker and responsive."
"Demonstrates professionalism, listens to clients, understands our needs, and provides effective legal advice."
"Hardworking, professional and knowledgeable."
"Mr. Wan Hong is very professional, gives the right advice to clients and tries to keep his fees to the minimum. He can be trusted! Even when he was on vacation, he made sure that my work was not affected." – Corporate and M&A
"Wan Hong is very responsive and gives proactive suggestions to clients in addressing tricky topics."
"Wan Hong Chan has been an exceptional legal advisor, demonstrating a high degree of professionalism, responsiveness, and depth of expertise in complex transactions. His ability to identify key legal and commercial issues early on, and to propose practical, well-reasoned solutions, has been instrumental in helping us navigate high-stakes cross-border matters. His commercial acumen and clarity in communication consistently add value to both strategic planning and execution phases. He is a trusted and highly competent legal partner."
Work highlights
Advised a consortium on a $4 million investment in AI Palette.
Assisted a client in the acquisition of shares in iFocus for $2.2 million.
Acted for Globaltix on its $20 million investment from Trip.com Travel Singapore.
Harry Elias Partnership has offices in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. Built upon one of the most respected and influential litigation lawyers in the country, the late Harry Elias, the firm has an established reputation for its dispute resolution and family and matrimonial expertise. The firm is also notable for its construction, infrastructure, corporate and M&A, and intellectual property practices. Philip Fong, S Suressh, Justin Chia, Siew Fong Foo, Yvonne Foo, Pearl Lim and Claudia Teo are key contacts for dispute resolution, restructuring and insolvency, family and matrimonial, construction, banking, and corporate and M&A, respectively.
Work highlights
Advised on the strategic divestment by a Singaporean construction company of a substantial stake in a portfolio of student accommodation properties in Australia.
Icon Law is focused specifically on corporate-related work, including equity capital markets, investments, M&A, employment, privacy, funds and corporate administration. Launched in late 2022, it is an evolution of the former Singapore member firm of the ZICO Law network and is currently being integrated into KPMG. It is ZICO's new Singapore member firm and has “best friend” status with KPMG Law in Singapore.
The firm is helmed by managing director Chun Bin Soh and director Jeremiah Huang.
Work highlights
Advised the founders and shareholders of Brylchem Group on its sale to IMCD.
Acted for Ditrolic Energy Holdings on its investment by BlackRock Climate Finance Partnership.
JurisAsia is a boutique firm that specialises in corporate and M&A and general commercial transactions. Its intellectual property practice has been fairly active in the past year. It has an exclusive association with international law firm Gowling. The firm’s offering includes M&As, foreign direct investment, joint ventures, venture capital and private equity investments, fund management and capital markets advice, with a particular focus on Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, China and Vietnam. Tan Choon Leng is the key contact.
Client feedback
“Fast responses and accommodating.” – Corporate and M&A
“They are always available to help, are creative, concise and supportive. Lawyers have a very positive attitude.” – Corporate and M&A
Choon Leng Tan
“He’s the best lawyer I ever met: practical, quick, innovative and concise.”
Vincent Tan
“Vincent offers quick responses and can give commercial feedback on the deal.”
Work highlights
Advised Rimkus Consulting Group on its £104 million acquisition of Capital Consulting International, a global consultancy of delay, quantum and technical experts advising the insurance and construction industries.
Acting for Annamite Resources Holdings, a French-based precious and base metals mineral exploration company in relation to its proposed investment into a copper and gold mineral prospecting and exploration company in Laos.
Represented Hangry, the leading Indonesian cloud kitchen company, in relation to the investment by a Singapore-based venture debt firm, InnoVen Capital.
RHTLaw Asia is a full-service firm that has a well-respected technology practice. Boasting partners that are qualified in multiple jurisdictions such as China, US, Hong Kong, Australia and Malaysia, the firm routinely handles complex cross-border transactions. The firm is organised around eight industry groups: consumer brands, healthcare and life sciences, private wealth, technology and media, construction and projects, financial institutions and technology, transportation and logistics, and education. The technology group specialises in tech infrastructure, blockchain, data processing and telecommunications. The key contacts include corporate partners Erwan Barre and Eu Jin Yang, IP specialist Rizwi Wun and disputes leader Nandakumar Renganathan. The corporate and capital markets groups last winter welcomed partners Parikhit Sarma and Esther Wee from Virtus Law and Harry Elias Partnership, respectively.
Client feedback
“They have amazing customer service, are passionate about their job and their knowledge is unparalleled. Total empathy for clients.” – Dispute resolution
“Organised, efficient, understands the interaction of business and law, cost-conscious and smart.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive and excellent professional advice provided by the lawyers.” – Intellectual property
Sharon Chong
“Had empathy and total understanding of the subject-matter. Amazing advice and foresight.”
“Sharon was always genuine and sincere in offering help. At every interaction she was always positive yet realistic. I am not exaggerating when I say Sharon was a god-sent angel into my life. In my darkest days, she was doing all the work at the back, so I can stand on my feet again. She was empathetic, passionate and appropriately aggressive when she needs to protect and exert her client's rights. Sharon never fails to provide me with different options and solutions when I seek her professional opinion. It's truly comforting to know someone like her exists in her line of work.”
“Sharon was always prompt to deliver, but more than that, always provided different options and perspectives for me. This is invaluable from a business standpoint because sometimes there are really better ways to do things, ways that are more amicable, professional and pocket-friendly.”
Esther Wee
“Effective, responsive and resourceful.”
Rizwi Wun
“Smart, knowledgeable, creative, business-savvy and organised. He gets that almost every legal decision is at its core a business decision and understands how to navigate that potential conflict.”
Work highlights
Advised Volare Group on rules of the Singapore code on takeovers and mergers in relation to a partial offer.
Acted for Sysma Holdings on its voluntary cash offer to privatise a listed company.
Represented BW Epic Kosan on its offer for all the issued and paid-up outstanding shares in the capital of the company, a company listed on the Oslo Euronext Growth.
Rubicon Law is a corporate boutique firm that was established five years ago. The firm has particular expertise in local and cross-border mergers and acquisitions and fundraising transactions. Its key clients include startup companies, SMEs, venture capital and private-equity firms as well as public-listed companies. It is predominantly an independent Singapore law firm, but enjoys strong informal networks with other law firms around the region, namely Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and the PRC. Seasoned corporate law expert Shiao Ning Lam is the founder and key figure at the firm.
Work highlights
Acted for a domestic precision engineering company and its shareholders in the sale of 100% of the stake in the target to a portfolio company controlled by Prime Movers Equity, through its Malaysian subsidiary.
Advised Southeast Asia-focused venture capital firm on its seed investment in SkinSeoul, which operates an AI-powered online marketplace for Korean skincare products.
TLB focuses on commercial and corporate transactions, capital markets and corporate reorganisations involving both private and public companies, non-profit organisations and entrepreneurs. Due to the founder’s long track record as an in-house counsel at a telecoms firm, TLB has deep expertise in the telecommunications industry. Clients seek the team out for advice on the financial and emerging technologies space, as the lawyers are well-versed in blockchain technologies and crypto-tokens, as well as related services and the attendant legal and regulatory implications. Its clients range from founders of layer-1 or 2 public blockchains, non-profit token foundations, dApps, DAOs, web 3 companies, private investment funds and crypto-exchanges to centralised and decentralised financial intermediaries. The firm has completed over 400 varied transactions, more than half being cross-border. Philippe Taverne and Mathilde Broustau are key contacts. They are qualified to practise Singapore, French and UK law.
Work highlights
Advised a domestic travel company on the formation of a joint venture with another group in Saudi Arabia.
Assisted a French family office regarding post-acquisition matters related to a Singapore company.
TSMP Law Corporation is a prestigious, mid-sized law firm renowned for its expertise in dispute resolution, corporate law, and private client services. Recognized for its strategic and innovative approach, the firm effectively handles complex legal issues for a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations, local businesses, and high-net-worth individuals. The firm not only acts for various major corporations and financial institutions but also is frequently sought out by different regulatory bodies.
A key strength of TSMP lies in its dispute resolution capabilities, particularly in litigation and arbitration. The dispute resolution practice proudly states that it takes on difficult cases, ones that test, shape or advance the law. The disputes team covers the full gamut of litigation and arbitration, notably complex commercial and corporate litigation with a focus on boardroom, shareholder and investment disputes. There is additionally a growing practice specialising in the crypto-space, working with clients across the ecosystem from investors to exchanges.
The firm’s lawyers are adept at managing intricate disputes, whether in court or through alternative mechanisms, and are frequently engaged in high-stakes commercial cases. On the corporate front, the firm excels in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, corporate governance, and compliance, offering clients comprehensive legal advice tailored to their business objectives. TSMP is also known for its private client practice, where it provides bespoke solutions for wealth management, estate planning, and family business succession.
TSMP serves a wide range of industries, including banking and finance, construction and engineering, employment, corporate real estate, and private wealth. It is also expanding its focus into emerging sectors such as technology and fintech, positioning itself to address the legal challenges of digital transformation.
The TSMP team includes some of Singapore’s most respected legal professionals, including two senior counsels. Joint managing partner Thio Shen Yi SC is a leading figure in litigation and arbitration, known for his ability to navigate complex disputes. Joint managing partner Stefanie Yuen Thio is an illustrious corporate law specialist with a focus on capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance.
Other notable figures include Jeffrey Chan SC, disputes specialist Felicia Tan, who has contributed to high-profile discussions such as the Bukom Island shutdown, and employment specialist Ian Lim, who is recognized for his insights into workplace injury scams. The firm’s strength is further bolstered by experienced partners like construction specialists Derek Loh and Melvin Chan, and Jennifer Chia and Leon Lim in corporate law, as well as consultants like Professors Tang Hang Wu and Hans Tjio, who bring academic depth to their respective specialties.
Work highlights
Advised YTL Cement on its acquisition of an 80% stake in NSL, involving a mandatory general offer for all shares. The deal is notable for its size and impact on the regional building materials market.
Acted for Kredivo in its acquisition of GajiGesa, marking its entry into the earned wage access market.
Advised Goldman Sachs in a significant financing transaction amounting to US$1 billion for the Solstad Group. The deal supports critical infrastructure developments in the offshore shipping sector.
Wong Tan & Molly Lim (WT&ML) offers legal services to clients with international business interests and is focused on capital markets, M&A, banking and finance, and general commercial and corporate law. The firm entered into a formal alliance with Watson Farley & Williams in 2017, lending it a unique strength in contentious and advisory work related to the maritime and international trade sectors.
The banking group covers all areas of banking and finance, including secured and syndicated loan transactions and guarantees, structured finance and project finance. The firm has acted for many international banks in drafting and advising on standard form documentation for general banking transactions. The disputes team has seen a rise in cases involving cryptocurrencies and NFTs.
The firm's strengths lie in its experienced team, which consists of key individuals like joint managing partner Ong Beng Hong, who specializes in banking and finance, securities, and corporate advisory work. He is highly regarded for his insight into complex financial transactions. Joint managing director Tan Swee Gek brings extensive knowledge in M&As, capital markets, and corporate finance, while director Lee Yuan focuses on corporate and commercial law, enhancing the firm’s capabilities in handling sophisticated corporate transactions. Joint managing director Philip Ling helms the dispute resolution practice.
The firm is particularly known for its prowess in facilitating high-value mergers and acquisitions. Recent highlights include advising Green Esteel on its acquisition of HG Metal Manufacturing, a significant transaction in the steel industry valued at S$73.08 million. The firm is also recognized for its work in banking and finance, having acted as counsel in various high-profile credit agreements. For instance, the team recently represented Ecom Agroindustrial Asia in a substantial US$770 million credit agreement, demonstrating its capability to handle large-scale financing arrangements. WT&ML continues to grow and adapt to the evolving legal landscape. It recently expanded its practice areas to include more specialized sectors, positioning themselves to serve clients better in emerging industries.
Client feedback
"They are well-versed with listing requirements and provide sound professional advice." – Corporate and M&A
Beng Hong Ong
"Very professional and competent."
Work highlights
Represented a domestic company on its voluntary cash offer to acquire all the issued shares in a Singapore-listed waste management company by way of a scheme of arrangement.
Assisted a Singapore-based investment holding company on its mandatory conditional cash offer to acquire all the issued shares in a Singapore-listed steel company.
Yuen Law is a boutique legal practice offering services ranging from dispute resolution to corporate and commercial, real estate, family law and private wealth. The firm is especially active in fundraising and venture capital investment for SMEs and startups. One of the firm’s key strengths lies in M&A concerning Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) regulated entities, due to its strengths in fintech and financial regulatory law. The investment funds group is focused on advising licensed fund managers and assisting clients to navigate complex MAS licensing requirements and investor eligibility rules. Its corporate department is led by the managing partner Samuel Yuen and is supported by senior director Kevin Chua, while its disputes group is helmed by Amos Cai.
Work highlights
Acted for a Singapore-based construction machinery supplier on a seven-digit equity injection from five strategic investors, structuring the investment to support the client's regional and global expansion while protecting its leadership and mitigating regulatory risks.
Represented a Singapore-based investment firm in a pre-IPO equity investment into a leading European lifestyle brand, negotiating a structure that balanced investor interests with the target's flexibility for its upcoming public listing.
Full-service firm Advocatus Law has been on the scene for over 15 years now. Its dispute resolution offering is a pillar of strength that other areas have branched out from, including corporate and transactions-related work, real estate, regulatory compliance, risk management and IP. The team is known for its strategic approach to high-profile cases, particularly in the banking sector. The experienced litigators had nine reported High Court and Court of Appeal decisions as of early 2024 involving a panoply of issues such as insolvency, fraud, breach of fiduciary duties, professional negligence, misrepresentation and crime. The team has also been involved in various high-profile insolvency cases, including those of Hin Leong Trading and Three Arrows Capital. The firm maintains strong links to various networks around the region. For example, Advocatus Law is a long-standing member of the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the International Trademark Association. It is also a member of the Alliott Global Alliance and the Asia-Pacific Legal Innovation and Technology Association.
Managing partner Christopher Daniel heads the team that includes partners Harjean Kaur, Ganga Avadiar, Mervyn Cheong, Priyalatha Naidu and Eileen Yeo. Daniel notably has a strong insurance practice, while Cheong has a specialist certificate in intangible asset management.
Work highlights
Advising three family members of the Hin Leong Group in a litigation against their former Singapore solicitors.
Successfully defended a wealth consultancy against claims by the plaintiff for fraudulent misrepresentation, negligent misrepresentation, innocent misrepresentation, and unlawful and lawful means conspiracy.
Acted for three defendants in a counterclaim against claims of conspiracy, which arose out of an action commenced for minority oppression against other parties.
Represented a defendant in a case commenced by the securityholders of a real estate investment trust (REIT) against the directors of the REIT manager. The plaintiffs are seeking damages against the client on the basis they allegedly had breached certain duties under the Securities and Futures Act.
Aldgate Chambers is a boutique disputes firm that has been active at all levels of court. It works with domestic and international clients and has experience representing other law firms and lawyers in disciplinary tribunal hearings. Its highlights from the past year include defending a listed company’s subsidiary and acting in an arbitration against another country. The firm is helmed by managing director Kenneth Pereira and director Francine Lai.
Work highlights
Acted for CH Biovest in the High Court in relation to the Envy Holdings fraud. The liquidators of Envy are claiming back the profits paid to the client by Envy. The dispute is unique as the issue on how to deal with the proceeds of a Ponzi scheme for an unknowing investor has not been clarified under Singapore law. The judge hearing the matter also noted its novelty of issues and suggested that a young amicus curiae be appointed to assist in the decision-making.
Aquinas Law Alliance is recognized for its expertise in corporate law, capital markets, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and dispute resolution. The firm has built a solid reputation by providing tailored legal solutions across various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and construction. Its robust corporate finance practice covers a wide range of capital markets work, making it highly active in primary listings, de-listings, privatisations, rights issues, bond issuances and secondary offerings.
The team is skilled in navigating the intricacies of Singapore’s regulatory landscape, making it a go-to advisor for companies looking to raise capital or comply with stringent listing requirements. The firm is also noted for its experience with transfer listings, which offers an alternative route for companies to enter the public market without the traditional IPO process.
The M&A practice is another cornerstone of the firm, led by joint managing partners Kok Meng Lim and Aloysius Wee. Lim specializes in corporate finance and securities, while Wee brings extensive knowledge in corporate governance and strategic transactions. Together, they have successfully guided numerous clients through significant acquisitions, restructurings, and joint ventures.
The firm's success is underscored by its impressive client roster, which includes major players in the healthcare, technology, and consumer goods sectors. Recent highlights include advising Camsing Healthcare on a significant investment deal and assisting T T J Holdings with the sale of its green energy business. The firm has also played a pivotal role in facilitating capital raises for various companies, demonstrating its strong capabilities in financial transactions.
Aquinas Law Alliance is not just focused on traditional legal services; it is actively expanding its influence in cross-border transactions, particularly involving Chinese clients. The firm has established strong ties with companies in China, helping them navigate the complexities of the Singapore market. This strategic focus on China-related transactions positions the firm uniquely in the region.
Recently, the firm added corporate and M&A specialist Nichola Koh. Her joining reflects the firm’s commitment to strengthening its practice areas and meeting the growing demands of clients in an evolving market. Additionally, the firm is actively involved in structuring various investment transactions, ensuring clients can capitalize on new opportunities.
Work highlights
Represented a local marine engineering group in a contractual dispute with a Chinese subcontractor.
Advised a domestic engineering company in claims against former employees regarding bribery related to a high-value construction contract.
Defended an individual in a complex conspiracy claim initiated by Petrotech Marine Services.
Ascendant Legal has been in a formal law alliance with Norton Rose Fulbright since 2018. The disputes offering has long been a core area of strength for the firm, notably acting in all manners of corporate and commercial, restructuring and insolvency, regulatory compliance, shipping, competition and IP disputes. Due to its sprawling and deep regional and global network, the firm is active in numerous sophisticated and complex cross-border litigation and arbitration mandates. Its enviable client list spans household name multinationals, listed companies and Asian giants.
The 12 fee-earner team is led by managing partner Chew Kei-Jin. Another key name to note is R&I head, Meiyen Tan.
Work highlights
Successfully represented a creditor in the Singapore courts regarding a debt recovery claim against a prominent cryptocurrency hedge fund, navigating complex cross-border insolvency issues.
Acted for a global energy company in multi-jurisdictional disputes involving substantial investment and restructuring matters.
Bird & Bird ATMD upholds its ‘Outstanding’ ranking with a strong intellectual property practice and expertise in the technology and telecommunications sector. Lorraine Tay and Alban Kang are key figures for IP. The firm is also active in capital markets, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, energy and labour and employment. This year it moves up in the energy table, and debuts in the construction and private equity categories. Marcus Chow, Sandra Seah and Beng Chai Tay are the main corporate partners at the firm. Jonathan Choo is a dispute resolution lawyer particularly active in international arbitration and Seow Hui Goh focuses on labour and employment.
Client feedback
“Extremely pragmatic and commercial, excellent attention to detail, but does not belabour legal points unnecessarily.” – Aviation
“Commercially sound while providing solid legal advice and willing to go the extra mile.” – Aviation
“Responsive, practical and commercial-oriented.” – Capital markets
“Proactive and responsible.” – Capital markets
“Responsive with the ability to anticipate and identify potential issues. Has the ability to propose solutions.” – Capital markets
“Fast and logical responses.” – Competition/antitrust
“Highly responsive and can devise value-adding solutions to commercial issues.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm's legal documents are sophisticated and can capture most legal issues that we need to mitigate or prevent. When there is an issue, they are quick to provide solutions.” – Corporate and M&A
“Staff are timely, dedicated, professional, responsive and client-oriented.” – Corporate and M&A
“Prompt and completed the work within the schedule.” – Corporate and M&A
“Professional and efficient.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, work effectively within time frame.” – Corporate and M&A
“It has comprehensive in-depth knowledge of the energy industry and thus is in position to provide good advice” – Energy
“The partner is helpful and turnaround time is quick. Great service.” – Intellectual property
“They are very responsive and the team has demonstrated in past projects their ability to deliver commercially sensible legal advice at very competitive fee quotes.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive, understands our business and our needs.” – Privacy and data protection
“Fast, reliable and a trusted partner.” – Private equity
“Completed the task promptly.” – Regulatory
Chua Lijun
“Receptive, fast responses and good knowledge of the relevant law and good understanding of the issues.”
Goh Seow Hui
“We value her professionalism, compassion for clients and humility.”
“Seow Hui did an outstanding job of understanding the client's needs. She advised me what was best for the client. She handled the case so swiftly to settle it amicably and moved on. I am impressed by her professionalism to take ownership after [another] lawyer left the firm. She took the responsibility of closing it. I am pleased with her customer service and compassion.”
Jeremy Tan
“Responsive, great attention to detail, he is client and results oriented.”
Jolie Giouw
“Highly responsive, she identifies the key issues quickly and comes out with solutions. We have always been impressed.”
“Excellent service-oriented mindset, has strong commercial acumen and able to advise well on the law.”
“Responsive and experienced. Able to provide prompt and quality advice and solutions.”
Lawrence Wong
“Communicates well to solve all the requirements requested by the SGX in Singapore.”
Leo Fattorini
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly. With counterparts he comes across very well without compromising our position.”
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly.”
“He has industry-wide knowledge of the Asian region, and is commercially savvy when it comes to negotiating with external parties.”
“Fast turnaround time and knowledgeable.”
Marcus Chow
“Marcus is knowledgeable in early-stage transactions and he is always available to the team to provide an opinion.”
“He is very smart and has extensive knowledge in venture capital investment as well as M&A.”
“Listens to what the client wants, and provides accurate suggestions and solutions.”
“Responsive, responsible and is able to communicate effectively with people of all levels.”
“Very commercial and good understanding of the client's needs.”
“Responsive, has ability to propose innovative solutions, and has good client relationship management.”
“Provides in-depth knowledge and advice to the board, resolving issues with advance steps taken.”
“Marcus was very responsive and can be depended on to deliver sound pragmatic advice, even outside of regular office hours. He is also quick to understand the commercial issues at hand, and propose solutions to address these issues.”
Sandrea Seah
“Very helpful and exhibits very good in-depth industrial knowledge. Gives very sound advice.”
“Professional, good listener, understands issues quickly and timely in responses.”
Work highlights
Acted for a global software supplier in a dispute with its customer, including delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Representing Retrospect Investment, Permenpronic Technologies and its main shareholder in a series of Singapore court proceedings involving minority oppression and conspiracy and issues relating to buy-out of client’s shares.
Acting for Voltas in multiple Singapore court proceedings against various sub-contractors arising out of multiple government infrastructural projects.
Represented Greenbay Marine in an action involving breach of confidence and breach of contract.
Key clients
ICOP Construction, Oracle Corporation Singapore, Roche Singapore
BR Law Corporation provides a strong dispute resolution offering for clients, with its roots in litigation and arbitration planted long before the firm was rebranded into its current iteration 15 years ago. The team is well-versed in complex commercial disputes and boasts a panel of experienced litigators who have advocated at the highest levels of court. The family and matrimonial practice is another busy bright spot for the firm, with its key practitioners working across a spectrum of family issues, from separation to annulments, and adoption to divorce.
The firm has expanded its reach into China and India, with the opening of two branches in China as well as forming alliances with law firms in Shanghai, Guangdong, Chongqing, Hong Kong and in India.
BR Law Corporation's real-estate practice is distinguished by its comprehensive approach to property transactions and regulatory compliance. The firm is adept at handling a wide range of real-estate matters, including the acquisition, sale and financing of both residential and commercial properties. The practice extends beyond mere transactions, with the firm providing strategic advice on regulatory compliance and risk management. This includes conducting due diligence on property titles and advising clients on the implications of any legal encumbrances. Their expertise ensures that clients are well-informed about potential risks associated with property ownership and transactions.
Managing director Bernard Doray leads a veteran team that includes co-founder and senior consultant S Radakrishnan and disputes specialists Soon Yien Foo, Sivakumar Ponnampalam, Daniel Loh and Luke Lee.
Work highlights
Acted for a Malaysian marine services company in a multi-million-dollar fraud claim against multiple defendants, which raised complex cross-border legal issues between Singapore and Malaysia.
Represented a family-owned company in a high-value family shareholder dispute, and helped navigate sensitive family dynamics alongside corporate governance challenges. The firm successfully defending its clients against allegations of minority oppression and breach of directors’ duties.
Founded in 1883, Braddell Brothers is one of Singapore’s oldest independent law practices that exclusively focuses on dispute resolution. The team is currently handling disputes worth a combined value of over $5 billion and prides itself on working on some of the toughest, most complex cases from around the region. The firm regularly advises financial institutions, high net-worth individuals and clients in the energy, real estate and healthcare sectors. Apart from counsel work, the partners are presently handling seven arbitration cases as arbitrator seated in various forums around the region. The team prides itself on being “hopeless case” specialists, for example successfully representing PT First Media to block an enforcement of over 99% of a $250 million SIAC arbitral award in the Astro-Lippo case in Singapore. It remains one of the few Singapore firms engaging in Russian federation and Kazakhstan arbitration work.
Edmund Kronenburg, Angelia Thng and Kyle Gabriel Peters are key contacts at the firm.
Client feedback
"They are very professional." – Dispute resolution
"Offer clear and practical advice in support of business objectives." – Dispute resolution
"I had the pleasure of instructing Braddell Brothers and was thoroughly impressed by their professionalism and courtesy throughout the engagement. Their team was consistently prompt in responding to queries, no matter the hour, and showed genuine attentiveness to my concerns and objectives. I especially appreciated their ability to strategize effectively – always thinking several steps ahead and offering practical, well-reasoned advice. Their calm, confident approach gave me great assurance at every stage. BB delivered not only excellent legal support but also peace of mind, which is invaluable. I would not hesitate to work with them again or to recommend them to others." – Dispute resolution
"Responsive and assertive." – Dispute resolution
"The lawyers provide excellent support, local knowledge and strategic advice." – Dispute resolution
"They provide sound legal advice and are responsive to the client's needs." – Dispute resolution
"Braddell Brothers can provide very detailed offensive as well as defensive litigation strategies to be implemented in Singapore in line with the litigation process undertaken by us in Indonesia. Our client is happy with the details and comprehensive advice given by Braddell Brothers." – Dispute resolution
"They demonstrate professionalism and integrity and take a proactive approach to client needs. They excel in client service, communication, and legal expertise." – Dispute resolution
“The team consists of highly qualified professionals who are prompt in responding to inquiries. They provide comprehensive and detailed answers to questions, ensuring that all concerns are addressed thoroughly. Additionally, they offer flexible pricing options to accommodate various needs." – Dispute resolution
"The lawyers always show their best efforts by giving us the best solution to our legal matters. It is easy to communicate with them and they are always fast at responding." – Corporate and M&A
"Ability to get straight to the point – avoid lots of unnecessary words and sentiments – which is a great value nowadays. Do not get off the radar and are easily reachable." – Dispute resolution
Edmund Kronenburg
"Edmund brought a calm, reassuring presence that made a real difference during a challenging time. He consistently provided advice grounded in commercial reality – offering solutions that were not only legally sound, but also practical and workable. With a sharp grasp of the broader picture, he was always thinking ahead and helping the client I referred to make informed, strategic decisions. His professionalism and steady guidance gave the client great confidence throughout the matter."
"He is very experienced at handling disputes. He has a great knowledge of law and is a good strategic thinker. He understands what foreign lawyers and clients may not know and provides the information proactively, like traps for the unwary."
"He can listen and understand the complex disputed matters and directly answer all questions raised by providing comprehensive strategies and steps to solve or litigate the matters."
"Ed has always impressed me by his ability to get straight to the point. He avoids lots of unnecessary words and sentiments, which is a great value nowadays. He does not get off the radar and is easily reachable."
"Senior practitioner, assertive, sharp."
"He is an innovative thinker that has a strong understanding of the law and integrity."
"Edmund J. Kronenburg is an outstanding professional who maintains a high standard of service quality, responds promptly to inquiries, and delivers exceptionally thorough and comprehensive advice."
"Always easy to communicate with and he gives great legal solutions towards our legal matters."
Angelia Thng
"She is responsive and patient."
"Responsive, clear and professional."
Work highlights
Successfully acted for a prominent Italian businessman in an action for conspiracy and breaches of contract against Revez Corporation and its subsidiary and defending the client against counterclaims.
Represented a regional medical clinic network against claims filed by a group of nine medical clinics, and pursuing counterclaims asserting improper medical treatment and possible medical fraud.
Acted for a Korean company in a massive SIAC IP-related arbitration.
Starred in a high-value Vietnam power plant arbitration involving a Russian contractor
Key clients
Atlas Asset Management, Autodesk, BASF, BeIn Sports, Ericsson Telecommunications, Garuda, Hyundai Engineering, JSC Power Machines, Krafton, NTT Asia Pacific Holdings, OSO Group, Singapore Medical Council, Transmedia, Wondershare Technology
Characterist is a well-established law firm that is recognized for its deep expertise in civil and commercial litigation, arbitration, and related fields. The firm is particularly noted for its strong capabilities in handling complex disputes, often involving intricate legal and factual issues. Their proficiency in construction law is complemented by a strong focus on regulatory compliance, particularly in sectors impacted by government policies and industry standards. Characterist has a rich history dating back to 1978 and has gained a strong reputation for its practical approach to legal issues, making it a trusted advisor for a wide range of clients, including multinational corporations and local businesses.
The firm's strengths lie in its comprehensive dispute resolution capabilities, particularly in commercial disputes, construction-related matters, restructuring and insolvency, and family law cases. The lawyers are experienced at handling complex legal challenges that often involve high-stakes negotiations and litigation. They have successfully represented clients in significant cases, including those involving minority oppression claims, construction defects, and intricate family trust disputes. Their ability to navigate both local and international contexts enhances their appeal, especially for clients engaged in cross-border transactions.
Key individuals at Characterist include director and head of litigation, Dominic Chan. He specialises in dispute resolution, particularly in commercial transactions and construction law. Another notable partner is managing director and insurance and personal injury litigation specialist Daniel Goh. Other key names include Vicki Loh and Francis Wong.
Work highlights
Advised the claimant on a minority oppression claim against six defendants, including an interim injunction application against five of them, in a potential reverse takeover
Represented the defendant in multiple anti-suit injunctions related to a common intention constructive trust and family provision claims against family members in New South Wales.
Advised a client regarding beneficial interests in properties disputed among family members, estimated to be worth around S$ 60 million, stemming from their involvement in a family business.
Assisted the plaintiff in applying for the removal and substitution of executors of a deceased estate, amidst ongoing disputes regarding the estate's management.
Handled a winding-up application for a company, with claims exceeding S$4 million, focusing on the financial difficulties faced by the aquaculture business.
CHP Law is a full-service firm with ties to CNPLaw, its senior consultant being Colin Ng. The team has particular strengths in regulatory compliance, investment funds, intellectual property, real estate and dispute resolution. Its team is highly experienced in handling complex, high-stakes matters that often cut across multiple jurisdictions and legal disciplines. The firm boasts a solid track record at handling multi-jurisdictional, complex legal challenges that often sit at the intersection of technology, finance and regulatory compliance. The TMT group has demonstrated its know-how in emerging sectors like Web3, digital assets and innovative financial structures.
One of the firm’s standout capabilities is its deep expertise in regulatory law, especially within the financial services sector. The team has successfully guided clients through intricate licensing processes, capital requirements, and ongoing regulatory challenges. The firm has a proven track record of advising capital markets licensees, cryptocurrency players, and fund managers, demonstrating a thorough understanding of Singapore’s regulatory landscape as well as foreign jurisdictions like the Cayman Islands.
The investment funds practice is another notably robust group that routinely works with clients on fund formation and structuring, including ventures into variable capital companies (VCCs) and segregated portfolio companies. The firm supports venture capital funds investing in technology startups in Asia and has experience working with family offices on bespoke fund structures tailored to high-net-worth individuals.
The firm’s IP practice is unique, with a strategic approach to IP beyond traditional patent and trademark registrations. The firm offers IP strategy consulting that helps clients leverage their intangible assets to transform and diversify their business models. The IP team has worked with major corporations in the energy and technology sectors to devise IP strategies that support structural shifts away from traditional operations. This forward-thinking approach positions them uniquely as advisers who connect legal IP considerations to broader business goals, including brand valuation and innovation ecosystems.
Dispute resolution is another core strength, with the team adept at managing a broad spectrum of contentious matters, from high-profile corporate disputes to cross-border insolvency cases. CHP Law has handled landmark litigation involving cryptocurrency insolvencies, hostile takeovers of hospitality assets, shareholder oppression claims, and professional negligence.
Their clients range from founders of distressed tech companies to family offices and multinational corporations. The firm is also trusted for representing individuals in complex commercial disputes and criminal cases, achieving notable outcomes such as full acquittals in difficult trials.
In real estate, CHP Law is known for handling sophisticated transactions involving state land and high-value residential and commercial properties. The firm has managed complex lease structures for government-linked entities like the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, including ground-breaking arrangements for airport land leases involving strata lots. They also work on high-value residential transactions involving stamp duty optimisation and creative property structuring, reflecting an ability to navigate both regulatory constraints and client commercial objectives effectively.
The firm is helmed by managing partner Christopher Huang and includes seven senior lawyers, including funds and FSR specialist Ian Phung, IP and intangible assets expert Dixon Soh, real estate specialist Tan Ching Chern, dispute resolution partner Danny Quah and private client expert Kannan Nadarajan.
Client feedback
"The lawyers are proactive, provide professional opinions and advice, and put in extra time to get the work done." – Corporate and M&A
"Great attention to detail and client management." – Corporate and M&A
"Lawyers are meticulous and provide strategic solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Good size. Good lawyers." – Dispute resolution
"Advice provided is very commercial and the director in charge is very responsive." – Dispute resolution
"Clear communications, prompt and reasonably quick turnaround." – Dispute resolution
"They have been positive and patient in handling all our queries and requests." – Investment funds
"Responsive and have expertise in funds." – Investment funds
"Perfect guidance and support, fast responses and friendly." – Investment funds
"Demonstrate expertise and competency, integrity and ethics and a client-centered approach. They promptly address client enquiries, keeping them informed and accessible when needed." – Investment funds
"Excellent client servicing." – Intellectual property
"Flexible but professional. Strong industry knowledge." – Private equity
"They explain the rationale, took many aspects into account to interpret the law specific to our case. They understood the limits of our processes and how to structure our case to show we acted in good faith." – Regulatory
"Partners are very accessible and available to provide advice. Advice is practical and aligned with the mandate. Flexible pricing for smaller firms." – Regulatory
"CHP Law stands out for its deep expertise in financial regulation and its strong grasp of emerging sectors like digital assets. The team is responsive, pragmatic, and solutions-oriented – able to simplify complex legal issues while remaining precise and thorough. They consistently deliver high-quality advice with a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, making them a trusted legal partner for any capital markets or Web3-related matters." – Regulatory
Raj Mannar
"Gives professional and sound advice and is responsive."
"Great attention to detail and keeps the client informed and made to feel important."
Ian Phung
"Extremely knowledgeable in his field of expertise. He is always ready to provide advice and is easy to talk to."
"Provides practical advice which addresses the problem at hand."
"He gave us very clear guidance with his professionalism, and he is also very kind and nice."
"He is patient."
"He is responsive and has a strong sense of responsibility."
"Great problem-solving ability and responsiveness."
"Ian is highly professional, responsive, and pragmatic. He goes beyond standard legal support by clearly outlining both the regulatory expectations and the practical boundaries. His advice is always well-considered and precise – often recommending a stricter approach to ensure we stay fully compliant and avoid any future issues. A true partner we can rely on."
Danny Quah
"He will listen and ask thorough questions."
"Strategic and empathetic."
"Sharp analysis, good strategizing, valuable advice, clear communication and prompt turnaround."
"Danny is very responsive and offers creative yet commercial solutions."
Dixon Soh
"Excellent client servicing and explains matters succinctly and clearly."
Work highlights
Represented the founders of the Hodlnaut Group in complex proceedings across Singapore and Hong Kong involving a cryptocurrency platform with total liabilities of S$674 million ($526 million). The case involved putting the Hodlnaut Group into judicial management and challenging a criminal freezing order. The litigation resulted in two significant Singapore High Court judgments exploring novel questions about cryptocurrency claims.
Coleman Street Chambers was founded in 2011 as a dispute resolution boutique with a focus on high-value commercial litigation and arbitration, and criminal litigation. It has a high win and settlement rate in court and through mediations. Its clients largely comprise offshore and onshore SMEs. Director Daniel Chia Jin Chong and associate director Vickie Tan Lin Yin are the key contacts.
Work highlights
Advised four defendants, including Big Bus Singapore City Sightseeing and Singapore Ducktours, on a claim and counterclaim against two foreign companies in an intellectual property suit.
Acted for Shanghai Afute Food and Beverage Management on an intellectual property claim and unlawful conspiracy matter, and two defendants in counterclaim in a misrepresentation claim.
Key clients
Certis CISCO Aviation, Citiponics, Exim & Mfr Holdings, Primustech
Founded in 2016, Covenant Chambers has built a strong reputation in several key practice areas, including dispute resolution, corporate and M&A, and capital markets. The firm's lawyers are recognised for their deep subject-matter expertise, strategic advisory capabilities, and ability to handle complex, high-stakes matters. The firm leverages digital automation to serve clients on technology-driven advisory and strategic solutions.
For dispute resolution, the firm has an impressive track record of success, particularly in handling multi-jurisdictional disputes involving allegations of conspiracy, breach of fiduciary duties, and intellectual property infringement. The team works with individuals, as well as institutional clients and businesses across a range of industries on contentious corporate commercial, IP and employment matters, among others.
The team's in-depth understanding of emerging technologies like cryptocurrency and digital assets has enabled them to navigate novel legal issues and achieve favourable outcomes for clients. For example, the firm recently represented a group of over 80 claimants in a multi-million-dollar claim against a cryptocurrency exchange operator, successfully obtaining summary judgment that was upheld on appeal.
The corporate and M&A practice is fairly new but rapidly growing under the leadership of Pei Tong Ng, who joined the firm in early 2025 from Drew & Napier. Ng has extensive experience advising on high-profile M&A transactions, public company takeovers, and capital markets deals across a diverse range of industries, including technology, telecommunications, infrastructure and consumer goods. The capital markets team is also spearheaded by Ng. It has demonstrated its ability to navigate complex regulatory requirements and facilitate successful fundraising exercises for clients.
The firm is helmed by managing director Ee Yang Lee and deputy managing director Ronald JJ Wong. Lee is a contentious real estate expert, while Wong has a strength in technology disputes. They lead a team of no less than eight senior practitioners, including four directors and four associate directors.
Work highlights
Represented clients in a complex multi-jurisdictional dispute involving alleged conspiracy and breach of fiduciary duties, managing legal strategies across various jurisdictions.
Led representative proceedings for over 80 claimants against a cryptocurrency exchange, successfully obtaining summary judgment upheld on appeal, paving the way for damage assessments involving novel valuation issues.
Duane Morris & Selvam provides a range of legal services to assist clients in banking and finance, capital markets, corporate and M&A, construction and dispute resolution. The firm is regularly instructed by Korean, Chinese and Indian companies on various banking and regulatory matters. Key figures include Jamie Benson for capital markets, Leon Yee for corporate and M&A, and Sarbjit Singh Chopra for dispute resolution. The firm welcomed litigation and arbitration director Clement Tan from Singapore’s state courts.
Work highlights
Acted for an established Korean logistics and shipping company in a case against former employees for embezzlement.
Representing Hyundai Corporation in the Singapore High Court on its $9 million action against a metal trading company in Singapore for fraud and conspiracy to defraud.
Key clients
AGR1, Apex Energy International, KDB, Kitchen Culture Holdings, TransAsia Private Capital
Boutique dispute resolution firm Eugene Thuraisingam specialises in high-stakes disputes and multi-jurisdictional commercial disputes including international arbitration. The firm is also known for its criminal defence capability and its regular representation of clients in public interest litigation and pro bono cases. As the firm has partners who are proficient in Mandarin and Bahasa Indonesia, the firm is regularly instructed on cross-border matters with Chinese or Indonesian connection.
The firm is best known for its involvement in landmark cases, particularly in criminal law. Peers continue to unfailingly acknowledge Eugene Thuraisingam as a lawyer of note in the criminal law space and for constitutional matters. The firm's lawyers have successfully represented clients in significant cases, including high-profile money laundering scandals and complex fraud allegations. Their track record includes navigating the intricacies of the Singapore legal system, achieving favourable outcomes even in challenging circumstances. The firm is particularly adept at handling cases that attract media attention.
In addition to criminal law, the firm has a strong presence in the commercial disputes space, often representing clients in sectors such as banking, finance, and consumer goods. The lawyers’ depth of knowledge in these industries allows them to provide tailored legal solutions that meet the specific needs of their clients. The key commercial disputes partner is Suang Wijaya and other partners to note are Jerrie Tan and Johannes Hadi. They form a respected litigation team that fluidly navigates complex legal disputes. Tan joined at the beginning of 2025 from K&L Gates Straits Law.
Work highlights
Acted for a renewable energy company in an expedited arbitration worth US$2.4 million, successfully securing a ruling from the Singapore International Arbitration Centre that allowed the client to enforce the award in the Singapore courts.
Represented a client that was caught up in a high-profile money-laundering scandal.
Advised a fugitive accused of running the world’s largest botnet, facing extradition to the US.
Acted for clients in a dispute against a Singaporean bank regarding unauthorized transactions allegedly made by their relationship manager. The case involves high-value claims and complex issues of fiduciary duty and unauthorized withdrawals.
Represented an individual in a medical negligence suit against a prominent private hospital. The case involves allegations that inadequate post-operative care led to significant health complications, including kidney failure.
Represented two plaintiffs in a defamation lawsuit against Lalit Modi for alleged malicious falsehoods published online.
Acted for a sporting-related company in a dispute involving former directors accused of misappropriating company funds. The case raises complex issues of fiduciary duty and financial mismanagement, with significant financial implications for the company.
Focus Law Asia is a prominent boutique law firm based in Singapore, renowned for its specialized legal services in shipping, restructuring, and insolvency. It also has a rapidly growing family and matrimonial practice. The team counts major world-class ship owners such as Maersk, Torm and Ardmore Shipping as loyal clients, as well as leading marine insurers like Skuld, UK P&I Club and Japan P&I Club.
One of the firm’s primary strengths lies in its shipping practice. Focus Law Asia is trusted by world-class ship owners such as Maersk and TORM to manage their maritime disputes. The firm’s expertise extends to advising on charter party agreements and bills of lading, making it a go-to for clients requiring guidance in maritime law.
The firm is a member of the One Asia Lawyers network and it boasts Japan and Korea desks with Japanese and Korean lawyers. It uniquely is focused on developing a North Asian disputes practice. The firm recently enhanced its capabilities by hiring a Japanese-qualified shipping lawyer. This strategic addition allows the firm to better serve Japanese shipping companies and offers clients legal advice in their native language.
In the restructuring and insolvency arena, the firm has gained recognition for its adept handling of high-stakes cases. The firm has been involved in significant matters, such as acting for the liquidators of Hin Leong Trading, one of Singapore’s largest oil trading houses, during its compulsory liquidation. This case has been particularly noteworthy, with claims exceeding $4.5 billion. The liquidators rely on the team's expertise to navigate complex financial issues and address numerous creditor claims. This capability is bolstered by the firm’s low-cost structure, allowing it to provide top-tier legal services at competitive rates.
In addition to its shipping and restructuring practices, the firm also offers services in other areas, including commercial litigation, international arbitration, and commodities trading. The firm’s versatility across various legal disciplines allows it to assist clients in navigating a wide range of legal challenges.
Managing director Shem Khoo and directors Mark Tan and Ker Sheon Lim are the key contacts. The firm's approach combines the depth of knowledge typical of larger firms with the personalized service characteristic of boutique practices. This model enables Focus Law Asia to maintain a lean operational structure while actively engaging its senior partners in day-to-day case management.
Client feedback
"They are an experienced and reasonable team that aims to secure just and practical outcomes." – Dispute resolution
"I find that Focus Law is a firm practising professionally. They are not unduly adversarial. They are fair where concessions must be made, and do not waste time writing antagonistic correspondence to fellow practitioners. I found that their work was of good quality as well. Their submissions are clear and easy to read. It was a pleasure to go to trial with them." – Oil and gas
“They detailed in their work, ensuring that every aspect is thoroughly addressed. They exhibit precision in their tasks, which contributes to the quality of their output. Additionally, they are known for providing intelligent and practical solutions to challenges, making them an asset in any situation." – Shipping
Mimi Ahn
"Pleasure to work with, genuine and generous."
Veronica Teo
"Veronica is pragmatic and laser-focused on proposing reasonable and sensible solutions."
Shem Khoo
"He is efficient, practical and intelligent."
"I really like Shem. He is a consummate professional. I found that I could easily pick up the phone to resolve matters with Shem, and trust that he will honour his word on what had been discussed. In a world where trust is a rare commodity, Shem stands out as a practitioner who says what he means and means what he says."
"Shem is a practical lawyer who is easy to work with."
Work highlights
Acted for a Swiss bank in proceedings against a Chinese aviation oil company for unpaid sums of $19 million, arising from a paper trade with no genuine underlying cargo.
Represented a Japanese holdings corporation and its related companies in a claim against a former director for breaches of fiduciary duties. This case involved allegations of misappropriation and is significant due to the complex corporate governance issues it raises.
Fullerton Law Chambers is a lean, strategic litigation-focused firm that is primarily focused on corporate and commercial dispute resolution, with a rising number of energy-related cases. Founded by experienced lawyers who previously held leadership positions in larger firms, the practice has quickly established itself as a go-to boutique firm for high-stakes, nuanced legal challenges.
The firm’s practice spans a wide range of domestic and cross-border disputes, frequently acting for blue-chip corporate clients. Its client base also includes multinational corporations, technology companies, construction firms, financial institutions, and high-net-worth individuals. Recent active areas of representation include finance, infrastructure, employment, defamation, TMT, real estate, insolvency and regulatory disputes. Corporate and white-collar crime investigations, as well as international asset tracing and fraud matters, are on the uptick for the firm. It has demonstrated remarkable success across diverse and high-profile cases. A marquee achievement for the team was acting for Bank of China in the complex Hin Leong Trading collapse, which involved competing claims over oil and gas cargoes worth millions.
In the construction sector, the team has represented major players like Soilbuild Construction Group and SK Ecoplant, handling disputes involving project delays, prolongation costs, and technical contractual nuances arising from events like the Covid-19 pandemic. On the international arbitration side, the firm has worked in multiple jurisdictions and arbitration forums like the Singapore International Arbitration Centre, SCMA, China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission, and International Chamber of Commerce.
Edmund Eng and Wei Chern Tham are key directors, with associate director Brinden Anandakumar gaining prominence among clients. All of the directors have also consistently been instructed as both arbitrator and counsel in international and domestic arbitrations conducted under the auspices of various leading arbitration institutions.
Work highlights
Represented an individual against Shopee Singapore in a landmark dispute concerning non-compete covenants. The proceedings clarified legal standards for interim injunctions related to post-employment non-compete clauses.
Defended Ong & Ong, one of Singapore's most prominent architectural firms, in a high-stakes litigation brought by a condominium development's Management Corporation Strata Title alleging substantial construction defects.
Advised a German warehouse and logistics provider in an internal investigation concerning potential employee misconduct.
Represented a Hong Kong-headquartered petrochemicals company in a dispute with a major Dubai-based international energy commodities trading group over the sales and purchases of various commodity cargoes.
Acted for the liquidators of MMID Utilities in a complex winding-up proceeding that involved applying for an innovative injunction against the company's shareholders and directors. The case was notable for potentially establishing new legal precedents regarding court injunctions in liquidation scenarios.
Harry Elias Partnership has offices in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. Built upon one of the most respected and influential litigation lawyers in the country, the late Harry Elias, the firm has an established reputation for its dispute resolution and family and matrimonial expertise. The firm is also notable for its construction, infrastructure, corporate and M&A, and intellectual property practices. Philip Fong, S Suressh, Justin Chia, Siew Fong Foo, Yvonne Foo, Pearl Lim and Claudia Teo are key contacts for dispute resolution, restructuring and insolvency, family and matrimonial, construction, banking, and corporate and M&A, respectively.
Work highlights
Defended a Malaysian client accused of masterminding a malware scam syndicate, which attracted significant media attention.
Helmsman is a leading law firm that is renowned for its expertise across various practice areas, notably shipping, dispute resolution, and labour and employment. It boasts a roster of respected and experienced legal professionals that includes managing director Ian Teo, Maureen Poh, Zhida Chen and Peter Huang. The team has played central roles in numerous high-stakes maritime matters and is carving out a specialty in complex contentious labour cases. It has a unique strength in understanding the cross-border legal challenges in international trade, commodities and shipping entanglements.
Work highlights
Advised United Overseas Bank in a $39 million misdelivery claim against Maersk Tankers, successfully asserting the bank's right to enforce security over bills of lading.
The offering at Joseph Lopez is primarily focused on dispute resolution. It is noted for its strength in contentious shipping, commodities, international trade, infrastructure and energy matters. The team is also adept at commercial and corporate litigation. Its client base spans continents from southeast Asia to Africa, Europe and the US. The firm provides litigation at all levels of the Singapore courts, conducts arbitration under the arbitration institutional rules of the key forums around the globe, offers private and institutional mediation, as well as adjudications under the Security of Payment Act for building and construction matters.
The key contacts at the firm are managing partner Joseph Lopez and partner Kyle Yew.
Work highlights
Successfully represented a client in arbitration proceedings regarding a significant dispute related to corporate guarantees, resulting in a favourable reduction of claims worth over $120 million.
Acted for a high-net-worth individual in a dispute involving shares of a Singapore-based fund management company, ensuring the client's rights were upheld during ongoing negotiations.
Represented a client in a personal injury claim, achieving a judgment of nearly S$3 million (US$2.34 million).
JTJB, or Joseph Tan Jude Benny, has one of the most experienced and dedicated shipping practices in Singapore. The firm handles complex high-profile matters in both wet and dry shipping including trade finance, industry M&As and investments, cargo disputes, charterparties and bills of lading disputes, marine casualties, shipbuilding, marine insurance and ship finance. The firm also handles a fair number of restructuring and insolvency matters. Murali Pany, John Sze and Danny Chua are key members of the firm.
Client feedback
“Proactive suggestions and fast, practical advice.” – Dispute resolution
“Fast responses, helpful advice and reasonable charges.” – Shipping
“Deep knowledge of the law practice combined with advice well-honed from decades of experience.” – Shipping
“The solicitors from JTJB listen to the needs of their clients and always have good solutions.” – Shipping
Danny Chua
“Quick, experienced and personable.”
“Incisive knowledge and decisive advice.”
John Sze
“Calm under pressure. Strategic, out-of-the-box analysis and advice.”
“He has been a preferred solicitor for us on local shipping matters. He listens to what we need and want.”
“He acts in an aggressive way for his clients.”
Murali Pany
“Good knowledge and well-planned strategy.”
Work highlights
Acting for the judicial managers of Xihe Holdings and dozens of ship-owning companies in relation to the collapse of Hin Leong Trading Group.
Representing AmBank against a Singapore-listed oil and gas company, Falcon Energy Group, in respect of very significant financing provided.
Key clients
SC Dalian, Shanghai Pudong Development Bank
JTJB, or Joseph Tan Jude Benny, has one of the most experienced and dedicated admiralty and maritime practices in Singapore. The firm handles complex high-profile matters in both wet and dry shipping, including trade finance, industry M&As and investments, cargo disputes, charterparties and bills of lading disputes, marine casualties, shipbuilding, marine insurance and ship finance. The firm also handles a fair number of restructuring and insolvency matters. Murali Pany, John Sze and Danny Chua are key members of the firm. Other names to note are disputes specialist Rafizah Gaffoor and Jolene Tan.
Client feedback
"They are fast and efficient. They’re able to provide sound advice on the action to take against those who contested our claims." – Banking and finance
"A dynamic firm with creative strategies that punches above its weight. Although nimble in size, it has expertise across all areas of its practice." – Shipping
"Joseph Tan Jude Benny has always provided advice quickly with good solutions to protect and benefit the client" – Shipping
Rafizah Gaffoor
"She is knowledgeable, helpful and professional. She is able to advise on the appropriate action to tackle problems. She works 24/7."
John Sze
"Hardworking, thinks outside the box and clever."
"John is very knowledgeable in the shipping area, especially in the arbitration process in Singapore."
Work highlights
Represented a Brazilian energy leader in a major dispute regarding a petroleum cargo sale that involved complex English court proceedings and insolvency issues.
Acted for a consortium of shipowners in enforcing a lien for unpaid charter hire through interpleader proceedings.
Kennedys Legal Solutions is a well-established dispute resolution firm in Singapore, known for its expertise in maritime, shipping and insurance-related disputes. The firm's key strength lies in its experienced team of lawyers who have a deep understanding of complex cross-border legal issues. The firm's dispute resolution practice is led by a group of seasoned directors, including Kevin Kwek, Kevin Tan, Karnan Thirupathy, Hui Ying Lim, and Patrick Yeo. Together, the group has extensive experience in handling a wide range of disputes, from high-profile director's duties claims in the Singapore International Commercial Court to subrogated recovery claims and cargo disputes involving various international parties.
Client feedback
“Excellent advocates in court, highly creative and adept at identifying unique angles to benefit the client.” – Dispute resolution
Charlene Sim
"Responsive and knowledgeable."
Kevin Tan
"Technically very sound, and a very good practitioner and executioner of work relating to disputes and claims in court."
"Kevin Tan is an exceptional practitioner who is technically superior in how he interprets and applies the law to each case."
Work highlights
Represented an American director in a complex cross-border directors’ duties claim case in the Singapore International Commercial Court.
Assisted a global insurer on a high-value subrogated recovery claim. The case required the coordination of various disciplines, including fire and financial experts, to address the complex issues involved.
Legis Point is an established law firm that focuses on several key practice areas, including banking, construction, dispute resolution, M&A, and labour and employment. The firm's diverse client base includes multinational corporations, financial institutions and established local companies across various industries. In the labour and employment space, the group has advised clients on a range of matters, including regulatory compliance, employment restructuring and wrongful dismissal claims. The key contact is seasoned dispute resolution and arbitration specialist Samuel Chacko. Other team members to note include director Chee Foong Young and associate directors Minghao Ang, Michelle Loh and Paul Tan.
Client feedback
"We have been consistently impressed with Legis Point's expertise in construction law and adjudication. Their ability to provide thoughtful advice that balances our commercial objectives with legal considerations has been invaluable." – Construction
"Legis Point patiently hears our issues, understands them, clearly explains and proposes possible options on the approach and strategies to be adopted." – Dispute resolution
Samuel Chacko
"Samuel excels with his polished communication skills, in-depth knowledge and quick thinking."
"Samuel has deep understanding and ability not only to visualize technical construction details, but he also identifies facts, interprets complex drawings, from which he constructs logical arguments. He thoroughly researches legal issues to support the case he is working on. He intelligently articulates his stance when negotiating settlements and agreements with his opposite number."
Work highlights
Represented a US-listed company in a $30 million international arbitration case against a tech company, addressing complex issues of contract law and US forced labour laws.
Acted for a corporate shareholder of a joint venture company and its founder in a high-stakes ICC arbitration involving disputes over the operation of the joint venture.
Founded in 2017 by senior counsel Lok Vi Ming, LVM Law Chambers is a respected, mid-sized disputes boutique offering a comprehensive range of dispute resolution services spanning commercial litigation, construction, insurance, media and telecommunications, tax, mediation, real estate, regulatory and white-collar matters. 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 and has been quite active for these clients in the construction, technology, infrastructure and PE sectors. The firm added shipping capabilities to its growing array of specialisms, with the hiring of former Incisive Law director, Mohd Haireez. Managing director Lok Vi Ming leads an experienced team that includes construction specialists Joseph Lee and Waltan Pak. The team also welcomed the arrival of director Jean Chan from the Singapore High Court to bolster its white-collar crime and regulatory offering. Construction expert Joanna Seetoh departed last year for Harry Elias Partnership.
Client feedback
“LVM is very proactive in providing practical solutions to the client. LVM does not only advise on the legal aspect, but they really help the client to choose the 'best' route to achieve the best outcome possible, given the commercial circumstances.” – Dispute resolution
“They have lawyers who are intelligent, attentive and know their specialised areas well.” – Dispute resolution
“The firm is able to distil complex issues to distinct bitesize chunks and tackle each of these pointedly. They have the grit and soft skills to disarm the defendants with finesse. They deliver par excellence.” – Dispute resolution
“The lawyers are professional and knowledgeable on the case; they were able to find the supporting evidence in the court documents to defend my case.” – Private client
“Responsive and experienced team, able to pull in senior counsel when required.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Honest, quick and frank.” – Shipping
“Quick response and practical advice.” – Shipping
Mohd Haireez
“Able to provide quick and concise advice.”
“Solid legal and sector knowledge, attentive and meticulous.”
“Hard-working, efficient, brilliant and affable.”
Jonathan Muk
“Jonathan has very good legal knowledge as well as industry knowledge, to provide the client with practical advice. He is also very responsive to clients’ queries.”
“Jonathan not only listens, he does his homework and always researches thoroughly. He is always accessible and he responds to queries promptly. He keeps tabs on costs and timeline diligently.”
Huey Hien Ooi
“Responsive, detailed and diligent.”
Michelle Yeo
“She is hardworking and well-versed in knowledge on my case.”
Work highlights
Representing a defendant in relation to a claim by his son, which he alleges that his father had made an oral contract to transfer to him a majority share in a company. This claim raises 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.
Acting for a Beijing-based dental surgeon in an action against a former partner. This case raises issues concerning equity and trusts law.
Assisting Unipec in five disputes which relate to five separate parcels of cargo shipped on board four different ships. They arise out of the collapse of the Hin Leong Trading Group, which is widely recognised as the largest corporate fraud in Singapore history.
Key clients
DBS, Deloitte & Touche, Goldlands Holdings Company, Yihua Lifestyle Technology.
Meritus Law is a dynamic law firm specialising in complex dispute resolution, restructuring and regulatory matters across multiple industry sectors. The firm's distinction is in its ability to handle high-stakes, cross-jurisdictional commercial disputes involving significant financial interests. Its portfolio includes acting for clients in disputes ranging from technology startup conflicts to family business disagreements, and from commodity trading issues to corporate governance challenges.
The firm has shown particular expertise in several key areas: technology sector disputes, corporate governance challenges, cross-border commercial litigation, and restructuring and insolvency matters. They have successfully handled cases involving unicorn startups, listed companies, and family-owned businesses, often resolving complex legal issues that involve intricate financial and corporate dynamics.
The firm’s clients consist of local and international corporations, state-owned enterprises and high-net-worth individuals. The lawyers are experienced in a wide spectrum of contentious matters before the Singapore courts, as well as arbitration proceedings before the Singapore International Arbitration Centre. The firm frequently receives briefs from international law firms and picks up conflict work from larger domestic players. Managing director Alfred Lim spearheads the leadership that includes disputes-focused directors Jaime Lye and Ushan Premaratne, and corporate specialist Amos Tan.
Work highlights
Acted for a domestic auto company in a cross-jurisdictional dispute involving the purchase of a Ferrari, addressing challenges with an agent in Scotland and working to recover payments and potential loss of profit from a complicated international vehicle transaction.
Represented creditors in legal proceedings against Envy Global Trading and its founder, involving claims related to an alleged investment scheme that potentially defrauded investors of approximately S$1 billion ($780 million).
Advised the co-founder of a Singapore-based fashion e-commerce platform in investigations into fraud and breach of fiduciary duties of the other co-founder, and the subsequent sale of the company to new investors.
Nicholas Narayanan established Nicholas & Tan Partnership as a specialist litigation firm in 2010. Its areas of expertise include banking, corporate, real estate and IP disputes. Additionally, it is active in administrative, tort and white-collar crime cases.
Work highlights
Successfully represented foreign listed corporation in an application for partial setting aside of an International Chamber of Commerce arbitral award, the decision for which is currently pending an appeal before the Court of Appeal.
Acting for a client who is accused of theft of gasoil worth approximately $32.1 million from Shell Eastern Petroleum at its Pulau Bukom site. The client is one of the 14 men charged in connection with the alleged theft.
Nine Yards Chambers is a dynamic dispute resolution firm that was founded in late 2022. It has quickly made a name for itself by specialising in complex commercial and transactional disputes, particularly in areas such as shareholder disputes, hostile takeovers and investment recovery. The firm stands out for its commitment to representing listed companies, showcasing a strong track record in high-stakes legal battles. Apart from listed companies, the firm has successfully represented a diverse range of clients, including high-net-worth individuals and listed companies, in various complex legal matters. Its recent robust activity is exemplified in four significant written judgments issued by the Singapore High Court.
At the helm is Nichol Yeo, the firm's founder and director, who has over a decade of experience in dispute resolution. He is recognised for his expertise in high-profile cases, including those involving corporate governance and complex transactions. His leadership has been pivotal in establishing the firm’s reputation. Alongside him, Bi Qi Qua and Nicholas Leong serve as counsel, both bringing specialised skills in dispute resolution and commercial law.
Recent achievements include significant victories in several landmark cases, such as successfully defending against a hostile takeover attempt and securing a landmark decision regarding company membership under the Companies Act. These cases have not only benefited clients but have also contributed to important discussions in corporate law, prompting a re-evaluation of existing legal frameworks.
The firm is actively expanding its practice areas, with a focus on enhancing its capabilities in commercial transactions to better serve its clients. This includes exploring new industry sectors, particularly in renewable energy and technology, to meet the evolving needs of businesses.
Work highlights
Acted for USP Group in a landmark legal matter concerning company membership under Section 176 of the Companies Act. The successful outcome led to a reevaluation of legal standards regarding shareholder meetings.
Represented USP Group in successfully resisting a hostile takeover by declaring that the requisitionists were not members of the company. This ruling was acknowledged as a significant decision in corporate governance.
Represented a high-net-worth individual in recovering approximately S$9.1 million ($7.1 million) in assets following a claim involving the loss of mental capacity. The case emphasised the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals in financial matters.
Successfully advised JMO Pte in claiming S$2.7 million through summary procedure from a listed company, overcoming challenges regarding alleged failure of consideration.
Represented DNG FZE in an appeal related to a $17 million counterclaim after a claim was struck out for alleged discovery breaches.
Successfully obtained a Mareva injunction for a high-net-worth individual who lost mental capacity.
Oon & Bazul, Singapore’s largest conflict-free law firm, is best known for its contentious practices, notably shipping, and restructuring and insolvency. Its corporate M&A practice has been making strong headway in the past few years and is enjoying growing market prominence for its visibility on domestic and cross-border transactions. 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. On the shipping side, the firm is noted for its multi-jurisdictional expertise across the entire spectrum of general dry shipping, casualty and wet work, arrests and security-taking, ship finance, trade and marine insurance, and in the highly specialised area of mis-delivery claims, and it 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 partners: shipping-focused Thian Seng Oon, head of international arbitration Suresh Divyanathan, head of international arbitration Elan Krishna, head of shipping Prakaash Silvam, and insolvency head Keith Han. The corporate division is headed by Yi Wayn Ng.
Work highlights
Successfully represented a major jewellery wholesaler in the Singapore High Court, obtaining a recovery order for $23 million while successfully opposing a $42 million counterclaim from a US-based counterparty.
Acted for a Singapore-based energy company in a complex arbitration involving allegations of contamination against Straits Pinnacle, successfully navigating issues of jurisdiction and interim orders.
PDLegal is a leading law firm with a strong track record in complex disputes, maritime and shipping matters, and high-stakes advisory work. The firm is particularly known for its expertise in international arbitration, commercial litigation, and regulatory issues. PDLegal's dispute resolution practice is spearheaded by managing partner Peter Doraisamy. He has acted in several high-profile cases, including advising the liquidator for a vessel owner in a high-value claim involving allegations of fraudulent bills of lading. The firm’s corporate and commercial practice is led by Gerard Quek, who has expertise in cross-border transactions and advisory work. The team’s client roster includes multinational corporations, financial institutions, and high-net-worth individuals.
Work highlights
Represented the owners of a family-owned business in a complex appeal before the Singapore High Court. The case involved novel legal issues around unjust enrichment and proprietary remedies.
Established over 30 years ago, PK Wong & Nair is known for its expertise in dispute resolution, restructuring and insolvency, and corporate and commercial law. The team has a wealth of experience in a broad range of commercial disputes arising out of breaches of securities regulations, commodity trading disputes, insolvency, employment and contractual disputes, and estate claims.
The firm is particularly well-regarded for its expertise in contentious matters, with a team that has represented clients in significant cases before Singapore's highest courts. Notable achievements include successfully defending multinational corporations and individuals in high-profile litigation and arbitration cases. The firm has also played a crucial role in various insolvency matters, acting for liquidators and creditors in complex cross-border situations.
Key individuals at the firm include co-managing director and seasoned disputes specialist Suresh Nair, and directors Andrew Ang, Bryan Tan, Basil Ong, Jennifer Chih and Jacinda Wong. Co-managing director Mark Wong heads up the commercial and corporate division.
At the beginning of 2023, PK Wong & Nair entered into a joint law venture with international firm Mayer Brown. This entity can provide clients with integrated and seamless advice on international and Singapore law. Local litigation is provided through PK Wong & Nair.
The firm offers unique capabilities in the technology sector, particularly regarding cryptocurrency and digital asset disputes. Its lawyers have acted for clients in significant arbitration cases related to cryptocurrency trading firms, reflecting the growing importance of this sector in Singapore's legal landscape.
Client feedback
"Great listening to the issues. Solid legal advice and experience in providing sound solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Great insights into customer contracts and other company-related contracts." – Infrastructure
"Provides quick responses to difficult situations." – Real estate
"They are able to highlight and concisely summarise key issues to allow for effective negotiations between deal principals. This is key especially when timelines are tight. They are also good at scaling up and down their resources to support assignments." – Real estate
Suresh Nair
"Great personality, approachable, a good listener, and he delivers professional advice."
Marianne Yeo
"Prompt responses, in-depth knowledge and advice."
"She's great at highlighting and advising on key issues to facilitate negotiations, is responsive, detailed and knowledgeable."
Work highlights
Represented a French lender in ongoing arbitration proceedings concerning a breach of terms under a Letter of Credit, involving a significant claim against PPT Energy Trading Co.
Advised the liquidator of Group Lease Holdings in complex proceedings involving claims of unlawful conspiracy and significant financial exposure.
Defended a client against a claim involving misappropriation of confidential information by former directors.
RBN Chambers is an up-and-coming disputes boutique that boasts extensive expertise in complex civil, commercial and employment disputes. The firm is regularly engaged by multinationals, small and medium enterprises and private clients in both local and multi-jurisdictional disputes. The firm is led by Ramesh Nagaratnam.
Client feedback
“Mr Ramesh listens attentively, is prompt, reliable and does thorough research to understand the property law in Malaysia as I am a Singaporean. Most importantly, he makes things easy for me to understand in laymen's terms as I am unsure of many technical terms and procedures. I felt at ease when Mr Ramesh sees this case as an act of unjust enrichment.” – Dispute resolution
“They were very positively engaging. They were patient in allowing me to understand and learn the processes involved. They were very upfront and clear in the ups and downsides of each action we undertook or the path we were looking to embark on. This is very essential for Clients, especially hand-holding us during this entire process, which can be quite stressful and cumbersome.” – Dispute resolution
Ramesh Nagaratnam
“He listens attentively, explains in detail in laymen's terms so that it easy for me to understand, prompt, committed, thorough and reliable.”
“Very professional, well versed with the Employment Dispute laws, and innovative in thinking and strategising for positive results.”
Work highlights
Acting for a former director, the 1st defendant, of a real estate development company in liquidation in a claim initiated by the liquidators of the company for S$65 million in the Singapore High Court.
Acted for the directors of a Singapore group of companies in the construction and engineering industry in their appeal against the decision of the Singapore High Court to dismiss their application to stay the bankruptcy proceedings to restructure the directors’ liabilities amounting to S$15 million.
With eight fee-earners, RevLaw focuses on dispute resolution with a particular expertise in restructuring and insolvency. It has also been active in contentious employment matters, as well as general commercial litigation and arbitration work. The firm comprises experienced litigators who have handled disputes before all levels of Singapore courts and international arbitral tribunals. The firm's expertise spans a range of sectors including banking, finance, oil and gas, and real estate. It has a broad spectrum of clients across various industries including banks, insurers, private-equity funds, property developers, hotel owners and insolvency practitioners. Managing director Sui Tong Chua and director Yik Wee Liew are key contacts.
Client feedback
"Our experience with the firm as a whole has been positive. Rev Law is flexible in its fees and has a good reputation, along with relevant expertise in restructuring and insolvency. Additionally, they are dedicated and knowledgeable in real estate." – Real estate
Sui Tong Chua
"He consistently provides effective solutions to the issues we encounter in engagements. He is prompt in responding to matters and always acts professionally and ethically."
Yik Wee Liew
"He is attentive and careful."
Work highlights
Defended claims against a Philippines-based petroleum group over a $140 million arbitration award, successfully arguing that the arbitration clause should be interpreted expansively.
Acted for a Singaporean client in a $30 million claim against LGT Bank for fraud by a rogue relationship manager.
RHTLaw Asia is a full-service firm that has a well-respected technology practice. Boasting partners that are qualified in multiple jurisdictions such as China, US, Hong Kong, Australia and Malaysia, the firm routinely handles complex cross-border transactions. The firm is organised around eight industry groups: consumer brands, healthcare and life sciences, private wealth, technology and media, construction and projects, financial institutions and technology, transportation and logistics, and education. The technology group specialises in tech infrastructure, blockchain, data processing and telecommunications. The key contacts include corporate partners Erwan Barre and Eu Jin Yang, IP specialist Rizwi Wun and disputes leader Nandakumar Renganathan. The corporate and capital markets groups last winter welcomed partners Parikhit Sarma and Esther Wee from Virtus Law and Harry Elias Partnership, respectively.
Client feedback
“They have amazing customer service, are passionate about their job and their knowledge is unparalleled. Total empathy for clients.” – Dispute resolution
“Organised, efficient, understands the interaction of business and law, cost-conscious and smart.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive and excellent professional advice provided by the lawyers.” – Intellectual property
Sharon Chong
“Had empathy and total understanding of the subject-matter. Amazing advice and foresight.”
“Sharon was always genuine and sincere in offering help. At every interaction she was always positive yet realistic. I am not exaggerating when I say Sharon was a god-sent angel into my life. In my darkest days, she was doing all the work at the back, so I can stand on my feet again. She was empathetic, passionate and appropriately aggressive when she needs to protect and exert her client's rights. Sharon never fails to provide me with different options and solutions when I seek her professional opinion. It's truly comforting to know someone like her exists in her line of work.”
“Sharon was always prompt to deliver, but more than that, always provided different options and perspectives for me. This is invaluable from a business standpoint because sometimes there are really better ways to do things, ways that are more amicable, professional and pocket-friendly.”
Esther Wee
“Effective, responsive and resourceful.”
Rizwi Wun
“Smart, knowledgeable, creative, business-savvy and organised. He gets that almost every legal decision is at its core a business decision and understands how to navigate that potential conflict.”
Work highlights
Acting for a Japanese-owned global hedge fund against a former employee for claims of breach of confidence and breach of contractual duty of confidentiality under an employment agreement
Representing BRF Global, one of the largest food companies in the world, in claiming for a breach of distribution agreement.
Shobna Chandran is a disputes boutique that was founded in late 2023. It is best known for its prowess in complex commercial litigation, insurance litigation, international arbitration, and appellate advocacy. The firm's eponymous partner, Shobna Chandran, is the driving force behind its success. The firm’s clients include global financial institutions, major private-equity funds, and multinational corporations.
Chandran is a skilled litigator with a robust track record of winning high-stakes cases. She has handled commercial disputes across a wide range of industries, including financial services, technology, renewable energy, and more. Her expertise extends to insolvency-related matters, joint venture and shareholder disputes, and insurance litigation. Her meticulous preparation and ability to distil complex issues into clear, persuasive arguments have earned her a reputation as a formidable advocate. Beyond her courtroom skills, Chandran is active in international arbitration. She has handled arbitration matters worth over a billion dollars, spanning jurisdictions from Asia to the US and Africa
One of the firm’s unique strengths is its appellate advocacy practice. Chandran is recognised as an experienced appellate lawyer, often being sought out by other firms to argue their cases before the Singapore Court of Appeal and Appellate Division. The firm's private client practice is another area of distinction. It routinely represents high-net-worth individuals and family businesses in local and cross-border disputes, as well as on private client matters. The firm works closely with other professional advisers, such as those in banking, accounting and tax, to provide clients with comprehensive and discreet legal counsel.
Work highlights
Represented Singapore Airlines in the high-profile case CSDS Aircraft Sales & Leasing Inc v Singapore Airlines Ltd, where the court ruled in favour of Singapore Airlines on several key issues.
Acted for the estate of a high-net-worth individual in a $20 million dispute against beneficiaries in the Singapore High Court.
Represented the Independent State of Papua New Guinea in the case of PNG Sustainable Development Program, securing a favourable outcome for the client
Acted for an American technology company in a SIAC arbitration related to a breach of a distributorship agreement with a Vietnamese provider, securing a favourable award for the client.
Represented an international bank in a SIAC arbitration related to a breach of a derivatives agreement, with a claim worth over $250 million.
Acted for a major service provider in the airline industry against a joint venture partner in south Asia, in an LCIA arbitration with a claim sum of $450 million.
Successfully argued the CSDS Aircraft Sales & Leasing Inc v Singapore Airlines Ltd case before the Singapore Court of Appeal, where the lower court's decision was upheld.
Represented VTB Bank in the landmark case AnAn Group (Singapore) Pte Ltd v VTB Bank, where the Court of Appeal considered complex points of law regarding the interaction between arbitration and insolvency.
Defended the estate of a patriarch in a case involving claims of breach of fiduciary duties, securing a favourable outcome for the client.
Shook Lin & Bok works with an impressive roster of clients, including major banks, multinational corporations and private-equity investors, on large transactions locally and across the region. The firm is highly active in banking and finance, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, and restructuring and insolvency. It is also skilled in advising on real-estate finance, particularly on the lender side. The market-leading banking practice boasts 26 dedicated lawyers, including 13 partners that each specialise in a different area of banking and jurisdictions. Key lawyers include Kai Zee Liew for banking and finance, Marilyn See for capital markets, David Chong for corporate and M&A, Jevon Louis for IP, and Sarjit Singh Gill and David Chan for dispute resolution and insolvency.
Work highlights
Defended a commodities trading arm of an India-headquartered conglomerate in an arbitration claim regarding non-delivery and wrongful refusal to accept delivery of cargo. The dispute involves significant contractual interpretation issues and claims for damages under the relevant charterparty.
Acted for an Indian conglomerate in pursuing a claim against Saachi Singapore for non-payment following the delivery of cargo.
Siraj Omar is a newly established dispute resolution boutique known for its expertise in high-stakes commercial disputes, particularly in the insurance and financial services sectors. The firm's diverse expertise allows it to handle a wide range of commercial disputes, from shareholder and partnership conflicts to fraud and asset-recovery matters. The firm is led by its founding directors and former Drew & Napier partners, Siraj Omar SC and Allister Tan. Omar is widely recognised as one of the top disputes experts in Singapore. The team is further bolstered by a roster of talented lawyers, including Larisa Cheng and Joelle Tan.
Work highlights
Acted for a luxury hotel in Singapore's first reported Covid-19-related business interruption claim, which established important precedents on the applicability of English Supreme Court decisions in Singapore.
Represented Lippo Marina Collection in a multi-million-dollar dispute against UOB Bank involving allegations of fraud and conspiracy.
Represented the estate of a late mining tycoon in a claim for breach of trust over the ownership of various assets valued at over $500 million. The case involved novel issues of trust law and the extent to which the reflective loss principle applies to beneficiaries of a trust.
Established in 2019, Solitaire is a dispute resolution boutique firm. It boasts an enviable client list for a firm of its size, and in its first year of operations it was able to secure a portfolio of disputes work involving $100 million. The litigation team is particularly experienced in shareholders’ disputes, breaches of directors’ duties and investment recovery work, and the practitioners have a keen focus on crisis litigation and management. Partners Nichol Yeo and Marcus Tan are the key contacts. Tan joined last year from Kelvin Chia Partnership.
Client feedback
“Professional and competent.” – Private client
Nichol Yeo
“Competent, professional and responsive.”
Work highlights
Represented Darco Water Technologies on suing its ex-CEO for breaches of fiduciary duties and employee duties for the failure to exercise due care and diligence in the Singapore High Court.
Defending Renaissance United in an employment dispute where a former executive director and CFO claimed alleged unpaid salaries and other sums totalling more than $1 million.
Key clients
Camelot, Milton Exhibits International
Tan Rajah & Cheah is a disputes-focused firm that is led by the widely recognised and acclaimed senior counsel, Chelva Rajah SC. 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. For example, it secured a landmark victory in a widely publicised case against prominent opposition politicians, where the Court of Appeal overturned lower court findings on the scope of duties owed by town councillors. This case established important precedents on the role and obligations of public officials. The firm is active in insolvency, labour disputes, international arbitration and white-collar crime matters. Rajah leads an experienced team that includes Moiz Haider Sithawalla, Megan Chia, and family law veteran Imran Khwaja.
Work highlights
Engaged by the Government of Malaysia to assist in the recovery of seized 1MDB assets in Singapore.
Acted for Innovative Corporation in an account of profits claim against a former director and his company for misappropriating a lucrative business opportunity.
Represented a Bloomberg journalist in separate defamation claims brought by two prominent political figures in Singapore. The case centred around an article published by Bloomberg that the claimants alleged was false and disparaging. The matter raises important questions about the boundaries of public discourse, press freedom and fair comment in Singapore.
Tan Kok Quan Partnership provides legal services across a broad spectrum of industry sectors, with particular recognition for its work in dispute resolution, and restructuring and insolvency. In the past 12 months, the team has handled matters across a spectrum of industries with a portfolio value of more than $1 billion. The firm has a distinguished record of handling litigation in the banking and financial services, energy, real estate and technology sectors. Senior counsel Marina Chin and Eddee Ng are key partners for dispute resolution, while senior partner Paul Seah is a key figure for restructuring and insolvency.
Client feedback
“Very responsive, clear in their advice, pragmatic and commercial.” – Dispute resolution
“Professional and yet commercial.” – Energy
“Responsive, proactive, technically strong and good business acumen.” – Restructuring and insolvency
Marina Chin
“Extremely responsive, commercial, approachable, knowledgeable and with a strategic mindset. She is an accomplished lawyer as well as extremely personable, from a human interaction perspective.”
Keith Tnee
“Approachable and quick to respond.”
Paul Seah
“Good business acumen and a good communicator.”
Work highlights
Acted for Sengkang Town Council in three appeals. This is a widely reported Court of Appeal case that concerns important and novel questions of law, including the question of whether elected members of parliament owe fiduciary duties to the town council and if so, what the scope of such duties is.
Representing United Overseas Bank on its claims for fraud and conspiracy against, among others, property developer Lippo Marina Collection.
Advising a client, the former CEO and chairman of Kitchen Culture Holdings, in four suits concerning allegations of breach of Catalist rules, fiduciary duties, the Companies Act and the Code of Corporate Governance, wrongful termination and defamation, and conspiracy, hiring and payroll improprieties.
TSMP Law Corporation is a prestigious, mid-sized law firm renowned for its expertise in dispute resolution, corporate law, and private client services. Recognized for its strategic and innovative approach, the firm effectively handles complex legal issues for a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations, local businesses, and high-net-worth individuals. The firm not only acts for various major corporations and financial institutions but also is frequently sought out by different regulatory bodies.
A key strength of TSMP lies in its dispute resolution capabilities, particularly in litigation and arbitration. The dispute resolution practice proudly states that it takes on difficult cases, ones that test, shape or advance the law. The disputes team covers the full gamut of litigation and arbitration, notably complex commercial and corporate litigation with a focus on boardroom, shareholder and investment disputes. There is additionally a growing practice specialising in the crypto-space, working with clients across the ecosystem from investors to exchanges.
The firm’s lawyers are adept at managing intricate disputes, whether in court or through alternative mechanisms, and are frequently engaged in high-stakes commercial cases. On the corporate front, the firm excels in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, corporate governance, and compliance, offering clients comprehensive legal advice tailored to their business objectives. TSMP is also known for its private client practice, where it provides bespoke solutions for wealth management, estate planning, and family business succession.
TSMP serves a wide range of industries, including banking and finance, construction and engineering, employment, corporate real estate, and private wealth. It is also expanding its focus into emerging sectors such as technology and fintech, positioning itself to address the legal challenges of digital transformation.
The TSMP team includes some of Singapore’s most respected legal professionals, including two senior counsels. Joint managing partner Thio Shen Yi SC is a leading figure in litigation and arbitration, known for his ability to navigate complex disputes. Joint managing partner Stefanie Yuen Thio is an illustrious corporate law specialist with a focus on capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance.
Other notable figures include Jeffrey Chan SC, disputes specialist Felicia Tan, who has contributed to high-profile discussions such as the Bukom Island shutdown, and employment specialist Ian Lim, who is recognized for his insights into workplace injury scams. The firm’s strength is further bolstered by experienced partners like construction specialists Derek Loh and Melvin Chan, and Jennifer Chia and Leon Lim in corporate law, as well as consultants like Professors Tang Hang Wu and Hans Tjio, who bring academic depth to their respective specialties.
Work highlights
Represented a defendant in an ongoing claim brought by the liquidators of Inter-Pacific Petroleum for alleged financial irregularities.
Acted for a client in a significant fraud claim involving former officers and auditors related to the acquisition of Blackgold International.
Represented a global accounting firm in ongoing claims of audit negligence concerning the liquidation of Hyflux.
Yuen Law is a boutique legal practice offering services ranging from dispute resolution to corporate and commercial, real estate, family law and private wealth. The firm is especially active in fundraising and venture capital investment for SMEs and startups. One of the firm’s key strengths lies in M&A concerning Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) regulated entities, due to its strengths in fintech and financial regulatory law. The investment funds group is focused on advising licensed fund managers and assisting clients to navigate complex MAS licensing requirements and investor eligibility rules. Its corporate department is led by the managing partner Samuel Yuen and is supported by senior director Kevin Chua, while its disputes group is helmed by Amos Cai.
Work highlights
Acted for a respondent in resisting an appeal to set aside a statutory demand, overcoming the appellant's abusive litigation tactics aimed at delaying bankruptcy proceedings.
Represented a subcontractor in a $1 million construction dispute, securing a favourable outcome by dismantling the claimant's contractual arguments.
Bird & Bird ATMD upholds its ‘Outstanding’ ranking with a strong intellectual property practice and expertise in the technology and telecommunications sector. Lorraine Tay and Alban Kang are key figures for IP. The firm is also active in capital markets, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, energy and labour and employment. This year it moves up in the energy table, and debuts in the construction and private equity categories. Marcus Chow, Sandra Seah and Beng Chai Tay are the main corporate partners at the firm. Jonathan Choo is a dispute resolution lawyer particularly active in international arbitration and Seow Hui Goh focuses on labour and employment.
Client feedback
“Extremely pragmatic and commercial, excellent attention to detail, but does not belabour legal points unnecessarily.” – Aviation
“Commercially sound while providing solid legal advice and willing to go the extra mile.” – Aviation
“Responsive, practical and commercial-oriented.” – Capital markets
“Proactive and responsible.” – Capital markets
“Responsive with the ability to anticipate and identify potential issues. Has the ability to propose solutions.” – Capital markets
“Fast and logical responses.” – Competition/antitrust
“Highly responsive and can devise value-adding solutions to commercial issues.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm's legal documents are sophisticated and can capture most legal issues that we need to mitigate or prevent. When there is an issue, they are quick to provide solutions.” – Corporate and M&A
“Staff are timely, dedicated, professional, responsive and client-oriented.” – Corporate and M&A
“Prompt and completed the work within the schedule.” – Corporate and M&A
“Professional and efficient.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, work effectively within time frame.” – Corporate and M&A
“It has comprehensive in-depth knowledge of the energy industry and thus is in position to provide good advice” – Energy
“The partner is helpful and turnaround time is quick. Great service.” – Intellectual property
“They are very responsive and the team has demonstrated in past projects their ability to deliver commercially sensible legal advice at very competitive fee quotes.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive, understands our business and our needs.” – Privacy and data protection
“Fast, reliable and a trusted partner.” – Private equity
“Completed the task promptly.” – Regulatory
Chua Lijun
“Receptive, fast responses and good knowledge of the relevant law and good understanding of the issues.”
Goh Seow Hui
“We value her professionalism, compassion for clients and humility.”
“Seow Hui did an outstanding job of understanding the client's needs. She advised me what was best for the client. She handled the case so swiftly to settle it amicably and moved on. I am impressed by her professionalism to take ownership after [another] lawyer left the firm. She took the responsibility of closing it. I am pleased with her customer service and compassion.”
Jeremy Tan
“Responsive, great attention to detail, he is client and results oriented.”
Jolie Giouw
“Highly responsive, she identifies the key issues quickly and comes out with solutions. We have always been impressed.”
“Excellent service-oriented mindset, has strong commercial acumen and able to advise well on the law.”
“Responsive and experienced. Able to provide prompt and quality advice and solutions.”
Lawrence Wong
“Communicates well to solve all the requirements requested by the SGX in Singapore.”
Leo Fattorini
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly. With counterparts he comes across very well without compromising our position.”
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly.”
“He has industry-wide knowledge of the Asian region, and is commercially savvy when it comes to negotiating with external parties.”
“Fast turnaround time and knowledgeable.”
Marcus Chow
“Marcus is knowledgeable in early-stage transactions and he is always available to the team to provide an opinion.”
“He is very smart and has extensive knowledge in venture capital investment as well as M&A.”
“Listens to what the client wants, and provides accurate suggestions and solutions.”
“Responsive, responsible and is able to communicate effectively with people of all levels.”
“Very commercial and good understanding of the client's needs.”
“Responsive, has ability to propose innovative solutions, and has good client relationship management.”
“Provides in-depth knowledge and advice to the board, resolving issues with advance steps taken.”
“Marcus was very responsive and can be depended on to deliver sound pragmatic advice, even outside of regular office hours. He is also quick to understand the commercial issues at hand, and propose solutions to address these issues.”
Sandrea Seah
“Very helpful and exhibits very good in-depth industrial knowledge. Gives very sound advice.”
“Professional, good listener, understands issues quickly and timely in responses.”
Work highlights
Assisted the Building and Construction Authority on a template energy performance contract to accelerate the adoption of energy conservation measures for the Green Building Council.
Advising the energy regulator, Energy Market Authority of Singapore, in the implementation of Singapore's first utility-scale energy storage system.
Appointed as legal counsel to the Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Association of Singapore to help Singapore in its decarbonisation efforts and move towards a greener environment.
Key clients
Energy Market Company, FE Energy Efficiency, LYS Energy Group, SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust
Dentons Rodyk & Davidson is one of Singapore’s largest full-service firms, stacked with notable partners who are experts in their fields. The firm has stellar banking, construction, disputes, competition, and technology and telecommunications practices. The firm is recognised for its robust capabilities in handling complex, high-stakes transactions and disputes across these areas. Its combination with Dentons, the largest law firm in the world, provides clients with an extensive network of global experts from over 200 offices around the world in more than 80 countries.
Partners to note include banking specialist Doreen Sim, M&A partner Eng Leng Ng, IP specialists Ai Ming Lee and I-An Lim, construction experts Kia Jeng Koh and Kirindeep Singh, insurance director Edric Pan, projects expert Joo Thye Tan, disputes specialist Lawrence Teh, and senior counsel Edmund Leow.
Work highlights
Advised on a $425 million financing for a hybrid solar and wind project in India.
Dentons Rodyk & Davidson is one of Singapore’s largest full-service firms, stacked with notable partners who are experts in their fields. The firm has stellar banking, construction, disputes, competition, and technology and telecommunications practices. The firm is recognised for its robust capabilities in handling complex, high-stakes transactions and disputes across these areas. Its combination with Dentons, the largest law firm in the world, provides clients with an extensive network of global experts from over 200 offices around the world in more than 80 countries.
Partners to note include banking specialist Doreen Sim, M&A partner Eng Leng Ng, IP specialists Ai Ming Lee and I-An Lim, construction experts Kia Jeng Koh and Kirindeep Singh, insurance director Edric Pan, projects expert Joo Thye Tan, disputes specialist Lawrence Teh, and senior counsel Edmund Leow.
Work highlights
Advised a leading insurance provider in a complex case involving professional misconduct charges against a medical practitioner.
Founded in 2017 by senior counsel Lok Vi Ming, LVM Law Chambers is a respected, mid-sized disputes boutique offering a comprehensive range of dispute resolution services spanning commercial litigation, construction, insurance, media and telecommunications, tax, mediation, real estate, regulatory and white-collar matters. 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 and has been quite active for these clients in the construction, technology, infrastructure and PE sectors. The firm added shipping capabilities to its growing array of specialisms, with the hiring of former Incisive Law director, Mohd Haireez. Managing director Lok Vi Ming leads an experienced team that includes construction specialists Joseph Lee and Waltan Pak. The team also welcomed the arrival of director Jean Chan from the Singapore High Court to bolster its white-collar crime and regulatory offering. Construction expert Joanna Seetoh departed last year for Harry Elias Partnership.
Client feedback
“LVM is very proactive in providing practical solutions to the client. LVM does not only advise on the legal aspect, but they really help the client to choose the 'best' route to achieve the best outcome possible, given the commercial circumstances.” – Dispute resolution
“They have lawyers who are intelligent, attentive and know their specialised areas well.” – Dispute resolution
“The firm is able to distil complex issues to distinct bitesize chunks and tackle each of these pointedly. They have the grit and soft skills to disarm the defendants with finesse. They deliver par excellence.” – Dispute resolution
“The lawyers are professional and knowledgeable on the case; they were able to find the supporting evidence in the court documents to defend my case.” – Private client
“Responsive and experienced team, able to pull in senior counsel when required.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Honest, quick and frank.” – Shipping
“Quick response and practical advice.” – Shipping
Mohd Haireez
“Able to provide quick and concise advice.”
“Solid legal and sector knowledge, attentive and meticulous.”
“Hard-working, efficient, brilliant and affable.”
Jonathan Muk
“Jonathan has very good legal knowledge as well as industry knowledge, to provide the client with practical advice. He is also very responsive to clients’ queries.”
“Jonathan not only listens, he does his homework and always researches thoroughly. He is always accessible and he responds to queries promptly. He keeps tabs on costs and timeline diligently.”
Huey Hien Ooi
“Responsive, detailed and diligent.”
Michelle Yeo
“She is hardworking and well-versed in knowledge on my case.”
Work highlights
Advised MS First Capital Insurance in relation to claims relating to an insurance policy insuring against business interruption losses, and whether they will be engaged in respect of losses caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Represented the insurers of Singapore’s railway network in relation to a dispute which arose out of a collision between two trains.
Assisted EQ Insurance, whose client, Asia Medical Enviro Services, suffered damages due to a nearby fire which spread to its premises.
Siraj Omar is a newly established dispute resolution boutique known for its expertise in high-stakes commercial disputes, particularly in the insurance and financial services sectors. The firm's diverse expertise allows it to handle a wide range of commercial disputes, from shareholder and partnership conflicts to fraud and asset-recovery matters. The firm is led by its founding directors and former Drew & Napier partners, Siraj Omar SC and Allister Tan. Omar is widely recognised as one of the top disputes experts in Singapore. The team is further bolstered by a roster of talented lawyers, including Larisa Cheng and Joelle Tan.
Work highlights
Represented a global data centre operator in a multi-million-dollar claim arising from a major fire incident.
Acted for a global invoice financing platform in a high-profile coverage dispute with its insurers.
WhiteFern is a prominent insurance-focused law firm that regularly acts for major insurance and reinsurance companies on a wide spectrum of both contentious and non-contentious matters including property and casualty, public liability, financial lines, and professional indemnity matters. Its core offerings include policy coverage advice, third-party claim management, defence and mitigation, and business-related advice for insurers. The team is experienced at providing counsel on disputes between insurers and service providers, contract reviews with business partners such as vendor and marketing platforms, and policy wording evaluations for new products. Beyond insurers, the firm is a trusted adviser to intermediaries, loss adjusters and other market players.
The key individuals at WhiteFern are managing director K. Anparasan Kamachi, and directors Grace Tan and Jin Sheng Tang. All three specialise in dispute resolution in the insurance sector, and their extensive experience and strategic insights make them each highly sought after. They are known for understanding the nuances as industry specialists and simplifying complex legal issues.
WhiteFern excels in high-stakes cases that involve significant financial implications. The firm's ability to navigate complex disputes in various sectors, including insurance, construction, and commercial enterprises, reflects its adaptability. What truly sets the firm apart in the market is its client-centric approach. It emphasises collaboration and communication, ensuring that clients are not only well-represented but also actively involved in their legal journeys. This level of engagement fosters trust and transparency, which many clients find invaluable. Clients have acknowledged the lawyers for being responsive and approachable, providing timely updates and tailored advice that resonates with their specific needs.
Client feedback
"They are prompt on services and work along with all interested parties." – Insurance
"Prompt service, responsive and sound advice." – Insurance
"The firm demonstrates sound knowledge of insurance law and benefits from a multidisciplinary team. They are thorough in their evaluation of facts and provide concise and clear advice on legal matters. The team ensures that clients are informed at every stage of the proceedings, and their charges are reasonable." – Insurance
Anparasan Kamachi
"He is very responsive and gets things done in a very nice way."
"Experienced lawyer with sound advice."
"He possesses sound knowledge of the law and has extensive experience in handling insurance claim matters. A thorough and analytical approach enables them to assess cases effectively, and they excel at explaining complex concepts clearly. Furthermore, they are prompt in responding to various matters, ensuring that clients receive timely assistance."
Grace Tan
"Concise and efficient.”
Work highlights
Defended a motor insurer against a multi-million-dollar personal injury claim. The case centred on the complex issue of damages computation, with a particular focus on the application of the Singapore Actuarial Tables.
Assisted reinsurers in a claim involving glass contamination in a batch of rice exported to the US.
Acted for a registered surveyor in a dispute regarding alleged breaches of professional duties, stemming from an encroachment issue between adjoining properties.
Represented a telecommunications company in a claim brought by a condominium management corporation for damage allegedly caused by the installation of telecommunication equipment on the building's rooftop. This case involves complex issues surrounding the application of the industry's Code of Practice for Info-communication Facilities in Buildings and the jurisdiction of the regulatory authority versus the courts.
Advised the insurers of a radiology clinic defending allegations of vicarious liability for radiologists' negligence in failing to detect abnormalities on x-ray reports.
Representing a local insurer in a significant claim involving a $5 million indemnity issue, focusing on enforcement of contractual rights under a Deed of Indemnity and Repayment Agreement.
Defended a client in a negligence claim related to a workplace injury sustained by a former employee while conducting operations at sea, with potential implications for statutory duty of care.
Advised an insurer in a subrogation claim involving damages from a water ingress incident at a commercial property, navigating intricate liability and indemnity matters.
Key clients
Allied World Assurance Company, AXS Insurance Singapore, MSIG Insurance, QBE Insurance Singapore
Amica Law is the largest boutique intellectual property firm in Singapore and is recommended for the breadth of its local and international IP expertise. The firm climbs into the top tier for IP this year for the continued demonstration of market-leading work. Its leadership are all former Allen & Gledhill IP partners. In the past year, the firm was appointed to the panels of the government’s Housing and Development Board and the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s JTC Corporation to advise on intellectual property matters. It also launched a new corporate and commercial department that complements its IP and technology offerings. Jo-Ann See, Wilson Wong, Winnie Tham, Jason Chan, Geraldine Tan and Melvin Pang are key figures at the firm. The firm welcomed director Yee-Swan Boo from Lee & Lee earlier this year.
Work highlights
Represented Element Six Technologies in a long-running patent infringement suit over synthetic diamond patents, which is now on appeal before Singapore’s apex court.
Successfully defended the operators of Luke’s Lobster lobster roll shacks against a trademark infringement and passing off action launched by the owners of Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House restaurants.
Acted for Align Technology in a trademark infringement suit in the High Court against Zenyum.
Key clients
Amazon.com, Banking Computer Services, National University of Singapore, Twitter, UOL Group
Bird & Bird ATMD upholds its ‘Outstanding’ ranking with a strong intellectual property practice and expertise in the technology and telecommunications sector. Lorraine Tay and Alban Kang are key figures for IP. The firm is also active in capital markets, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, energy and labour and employment. This year it moves up in the energy table, and debuts in the construction and private equity categories. Marcus Chow, Sandra Seah and Beng Chai Tay are the main corporate partners at the firm. Jonathan Choo is a dispute resolution lawyer particularly active in international arbitration and Seow Hui Goh focuses on labour and employment.
Client feedback
“Extremely pragmatic and commercial, excellent attention to detail, but does not belabour legal points unnecessarily.” – Aviation
“Commercially sound while providing solid legal advice and willing to go the extra mile.” – Aviation
“Responsive, practical and commercial-oriented.” – Capital markets
“Proactive and responsible.” – Capital markets
“Responsive with the ability to anticipate and identify potential issues. Has the ability to propose solutions.” – Capital markets
“Fast and logical responses.” – Competition/antitrust
“Highly responsive and can devise value-adding solutions to commercial issues.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm's legal documents are sophisticated and can capture most legal issues that we need to mitigate or prevent. When there is an issue, they are quick to provide solutions.” – Corporate and M&A
“Staff are timely, dedicated, professional, responsive and client-oriented.” – Corporate and M&A
“Prompt and completed the work within the schedule.” – Corporate and M&A
“Professional and efficient.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, work effectively within time frame.” – Corporate and M&A
“It has comprehensive in-depth knowledge of the energy industry and thus is in position to provide good advice” – Energy
“The partner is helpful and turnaround time is quick. Great service.” – Intellectual property
“They are very responsive and the team has demonstrated in past projects their ability to deliver commercially sensible legal advice at very competitive fee quotes.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive, understands our business and our needs.” – Privacy and data protection
“Fast, reliable and a trusted partner.” – Private equity
“Completed the task promptly.” – Regulatory
Chua Lijun
“Receptive, fast responses and good knowledge of the relevant law and good understanding of the issues.”
Goh Seow Hui
“We value her professionalism, compassion for clients and humility.”
“Seow Hui did an outstanding job of understanding the client's needs. She advised me what was best for the client. She handled the case so swiftly to settle it amicably and moved on. I am impressed by her professionalism to take ownership after [another] lawyer left the firm. She took the responsibility of closing it. I am pleased with her customer service and compassion.”
Jeremy Tan
“Responsive, great attention to detail, he is client and results oriented.”
Jolie Giouw
“Highly responsive, she identifies the key issues quickly and comes out with solutions. We have always been impressed.”
“Excellent service-oriented mindset, has strong commercial acumen and able to advise well on the law.”
“Responsive and experienced. Able to provide prompt and quality advice and solutions.”
Lawrence Wong
“Communicates well to solve all the requirements requested by the SGX in Singapore.”
Leo Fattorini
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly. With counterparts he comes across very well without compromising our position.”
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly.”
“He has industry-wide knowledge of the Asian region, and is commercially savvy when it comes to negotiating with external parties.”
“Fast turnaround time and knowledgeable.”
Marcus Chow
“Marcus is knowledgeable in early-stage transactions and he is always available to the team to provide an opinion.”
“He is very smart and has extensive knowledge in venture capital investment as well as M&A.”
“Listens to what the client wants, and provides accurate suggestions and solutions.”
“Responsive, responsible and is able to communicate effectively with people of all levels.”
“Very commercial and good understanding of the client's needs.”
“Responsive, has ability to propose innovative solutions, and has good client relationship management.”
“Provides in-depth knowledge and advice to the board, resolving issues with advance steps taken.”
“Marcus was very responsive and can be depended on to deliver sound pragmatic advice, even outside of regular office hours. He is also quick to understand the commercial issues at hand, and propose solutions to address these issues.”
Sandrea Seah
“Very helpful and exhibits very good in-depth industrial knowledge. Gives very sound advice.”
“Professional, good listener, understands issues quickly and timely in responses.”
Work highlights
Acting for HungryPanda SG in a trademark infringement action brought by Foodpanda.
Represented Novartis Singapore in a patent infringement action brought by Millennium Pharmaceuticals and Johnson & Johnson.
Assisting Monster Energy Company in all of its trademark disputes including various trademark oppositions in the Singapore Trade Marks Registry.
Key clients
Banyan Tree Holdings, Coalition Against Piracy, Fanco Fan Marketing, Fox Networks Group, Kao Corporation, Novartis, Smart Shooter
CHP Law is a full-service firm with ties to CNPLaw, its senior consultant being Colin Ng. The team has particular strengths in regulatory compliance, investment funds, intellectual property, real estate and dispute resolution. Its team is highly experienced in handling complex, high-stakes matters that often cut across multiple jurisdictions and legal disciplines. The firm boasts a solid track record at handling multi-jurisdictional, complex legal challenges that often sit at the intersection of technology, finance and regulatory compliance. The TMT group has demonstrated its know-how in emerging sectors like Web3, digital assets and innovative financial structures.
One of the firm’s standout capabilities is its deep expertise in regulatory law, especially within the financial services sector. The team has successfully guided clients through intricate licensing processes, capital requirements, and ongoing regulatory challenges. The firm has a proven track record of advising capital markets licensees, cryptocurrency players, and fund managers, demonstrating a thorough understanding of Singapore’s regulatory landscape as well as foreign jurisdictions like the Cayman Islands.
The investment funds practice is another notably robust group that routinely works with clients on fund formation and structuring, including ventures into variable capital companies (VCCs) and segregated portfolio companies. The firm supports venture capital funds investing in technology startups in Asia and has experience working with family offices on bespoke fund structures tailored to high-net-worth individuals.
The firm’s IP practice is unique, with a strategic approach to IP beyond traditional patent and trademark registrations. The firm offers IP strategy consulting that helps clients leverage their intangible assets to transform and diversify their business models. The IP team has worked with major corporations in the energy and technology sectors to devise IP strategies that support structural shifts away from traditional operations. This forward-thinking approach positions them uniquely as advisers who connect legal IP considerations to broader business goals, including brand valuation and innovation ecosystems.
Dispute resolution is another core strength, with the team adept at managing a broad spectrum of contentious matters, from high-profile corporate disputes to cross-border insolvency cases. CHP Law has handled landmark litigation involving cryptocurrency insolvencies, hostile takeovers of hospitality assets, shareholder oppression claims, and professional negligence.
Their clients range from founders of distressed tech companies to family offices and multinational corporations. The firm is also trusted for representing individuals in complex commercial disputes and criminal cases, achieving notable outcomes such as full acquittals in difficult trials.
In real estate, CHP Law is known for handling sophisticated transactions involving state land and high-value residential and commercial properties. The firm has managed complex lease structures for government-linked entities like the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, including ground-breaking arrangements for airport land leases involving strata lots. They also work on high-value residential transactions involving stamp duty optimisation and creative property structuring, reflecting an ability to navigate both regulatory constraints and client commercial objectives effectively.
The firm is helmed by managing partner Christopher Huang and includes seven senior lawyers, including funds and FSR specialist Ian Phung, IP and intangible assets expert Dixon Soh, real estate specialist Tan Ching Chern, dispute resolution partner Danny Quah and private client expert Kannan Nadarajan.
Client feedback
"The lawyers are proactive, provide professional opinions and advice, and put in extra time to get the work done." – Corporate and M&A
"Great attention to detail and client management." – Corporate and M&A
"Lawyers are meticulous and provide strategic solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Good size. Good lawyers." – Dispute resolution
"Advice provided is very commercial and the director in charge is very responsive." – Dispute resolution
"Clear communications, prompt and reasonably quick turnaround." – Dispute resolution
"They have been positive and patient in handling all our queries and requests." – Investment funds
"Responsive and have expertise in funds." – Investment funds
"Perfect guidance and support, fast responses and friendly." – Investment funds
"Demonstrate expertise and competency, integrity and ethics and a client-centered approach. They promptly address client enquiries, keeping them informed and accessible when needed." – Investment funds
"Excellent client servicing." – Intellectual property
"Flexible but professional. Strong industry knowledge." – Private equity
"They explain the rationale, took many aspects into account to interpret the law specific to our case. They understood the limits of our processes and how to structure our case to show we acted in good faith." – Regulatory
"Partners are very accessible and available to provide advice. Advice is practical and aligned with the mandate. Flexible pricing for smaller firms." – Regulatory
"CHP Law stands out for its deep expertise in financial regulation and its strong grasp of emerging sectors like digital assets. The team is responsive, pragmatic, and solutions-oriented – able to simplify complex legal issues while remaining precise and thorough. They consistently deliver high-quality advice with a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, making them a trusted legal partner for any capital markets or Web3-related matters." – Regulatory
Raj Mannar
"Gives professional and sound advice and is responsive."
"Great attention to detail and keeps the client informed and made to feel important."
Ian Phung
"Extremely knowledgeable in his field of expertise. He is always ready to provide advice and is easy to talk to."
"Provides practical advice which addresses the problem at hand."
"He gave us very clear guidance with his professionalism, and he is also very kind and nice."
"He is patient."
"He is responsive and has a strong sense of responsibility."
"Great problem-solving ability and responsiveness."
"Ian is highly professional, responsive, and pragmatic. He goes beyond standard legal support by clearly outlining both the regulatory expectations and the practical boundaries. His advice is always well-considered and precise – often recommending a stricter approach to ensure we stay fully compliant and avoid any future issues. A true partner we can rely on."
Danny Quah
"He will listen and ask thorough questions."
"Strategic and empathetic."
"Sharp analysis, good strategizing, valuable advice, clear communication and prompt turnaround."
"Danny is very responsive and offers creative yet commercial solutions."
Dixon Soh
"Excellent client servicing and explains matters succinctly and clearly."
Work highlights
Advised a Malaysian oil and gas giant on an IP strategy to transform its business structure, with the goal of earning 30% of annual revenue from non-traditional business using its intangible asset portfolio.
Developed an IP strategy for a content production company specialising in digital experiences and virtual production across southeast Asia.
Collaborated with WIPO to design a national IP strategy for an ASEAN nation, focusing on enhancing the role of IP in key sectors like agriculture, creative economy, and science and technology. The project involved working with nine local ministries to foster a dynamic IP and innovation ecosystem.
Donaldson & Burkinshaw is a well-established intellectual property law firm known for its strong focus on patents, trademarks and designs prosecution. The firm acts primarily as a local representative agent, providing comprehensive services including pre-filing advice, prosecution, responses to office actions, registrations, and ongoing maintenance of IP rights across multiple sectors. Its expertise spans diverse industries such as pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, chemicals, electronics and luxury brands, showing a broad ability to handle complex IP portfolios for major multinational clients. The firm handles high volumes of patent applications and trademark portfolios, often involving strategic advice on protecting traditional and non-traditional marks, including 3D shapes and colours. They also support clients in opposition and enforcement actions, protecting valuable brand assets in competitive markets. Key individuals at the firm include managing partner Michelle Ng and senior partners Shy Tsong Lee, Chi Duan Gooi, E-Laine Chiam, Michael Stephen Kraal and Min Pin Koay. Hubert Giam heads the patents division for the mechanical and electrical groups, while Teck Yeow Lim leads the patents division for life sciences and chemical groups.
Work highlights
Represented a German chemical group of companies in pre-filing advice and prosecution services related to specialty chemicals.
Assisting a Japanese FMCG company and a French beverages group in managing and protecting their extensive portfolio of marks used on personal care and consumer products across multiple jurisdictions.
As one of Singapore’s ‘Big Four’ law firms, Drew & Napier possesses a diverse roster of lawyers offering an extensive range of legal services in Singapore and across the region. The firm remains a dispute resolution powerhouse with a deep bench of top advocates including Jimmy Yim and Cavinder Bull. Construction specialist Christopher Chong, regulatory doyenne Corinne Chew and elite tax practitioner Ong Sim Ho further reinforce the team. Other key names to note include Pauline Chong for finance, Petrus Huang for capital markets, Chong Kin Lim for competition and technology, Steven Lo for corporate and M&A, Tony Yeo for IP, and Sushil Nair and Blossom Hing for restructuring and insolvency. Consultant Gary Pryke is another well-known practitioner in the development and implementation of a licensing, regulatory and competition framework for the liberalisation of the Bruneian postal sector corporate and finance space.
Client feedback
"Incredibly professional and to the point, advocating for the client and pointing out blindspots for the client." – Corporate and M&A
"The team demonstrated a deep knowledge of the subject matters and was responsive, quickly addressing concerns and providing timely advice throughout the process. They maintained a high standard of professionalism, ensuring their conduct was exemplary at all times. Their client-centric approach prioritized our interests, tailoring their services to meet our specific needs effectively.
“Effective communication was evident as they clearly articulated legal concepts, making them accessible and understandable. They actively represented our interests, showcasing strong advocacy skills. Additionally, their problem-solving skills were apparent as they demonstrated creativity in finding solutions to potential roadblocks during the process. The team maintain a strong reputation within the industry, which added credibility to our efforts. Finally, their collaborative spirit fostered a cooperative environment, allowing for successful outcomes as they worked well with our team.” – Investment funds
"Technically strong, collaborative in a distress situation to find a workable solution for stakeholders. Tough but reasonable." – Restructuring and insolvency
Wei Meng Chan
"Experienced in insolvency, hard-working and always accessible for advice. Technically sound, commercial-minded, thinks out-of-the box and responsive."
Ron Cheng
"Ron demonstrated strong expertise and strategic thinking, effectively enhancing our position. Clear communication and responsiveness ensured that our interests were prioritized, while his professionalism and strong advocacy fostered a respectful and collaborative atmosphere. Worked effectively with our team and creativity in overcoming challenges and finding effective solutions and alternatives."
Blossom Hing
"Blossom is an outstanding leader of her team and has gone from strength to strength since her elevation to senior counsel. Blossom is 100% dedicated to her clients and to achieving results for them. She is creative and highly experienced while also being pragmatic and user-friendly."
Julian Kwek
"Julian is an intelligent and creative problem-solver who always makes sure to understand his clients' objectives and concerns in developing effective strategies in their complicated cross-border restructuring matters."
Wendell Wong
"Wendell is the consummate legal adviser, fully committed to his clients, dedicated to his craft, professional in his dealings with counterparties and respected by the courts. He leads a team of talented lawyers who are committed to his exacting service standards."
Tony Yeo
"Tony is very detailed in the legal work and has a well-trained team under him. Tony takes all issues seriously and will leave no stones unturned. Reasonable fees with exceptional results."
Work highlights
Advised Nirvana on opposition to trademark applications by a competitor, resulting in a favourable resolution and withdrawal.
Represented Dyson in a patent infringement case regarding the Dyson Airwrap against a competitor's product.
Gateway Law Corporation’s IP practice delivers services across the region including in Australia, China, Hong Kong and India. In addition to its patent and trademark registration services, the team advises clients on the protection, enforcement and commercialisation of its intellectual property rights. Max Ng is a key figure. The firm recently welcomed director Kevin Lim and advocate Simon Dunbar from King & Spalding.
Work highlights
Managing the IP portfolio of the National University of Singapore.
Advising Formula One Management on its trademark opposition matters in Singapore.
JurisAsia is a boutique firm that specialises in corporate and M&A and general commercial transactions. Its intellectual property practice has been fairly active in the past year. It has an exclusive association with international law firm Gowling. The firm’s offering includes M&As, foreign direct investment, joint ventures, venture capital and private equity investments, fund management and capital markets advice, with a particular focus on Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, China and Vietnam. Tan Choon Leng is the key contact.
Client feedback
“Fast responses and accommodating.” – Corporate and M&A
“They are always available to help, are creative, concise and supportive. Lawyers have a very positive attitude.” – Corporate and M&A
Choon Leng Tan
“He’s the best lawyer I ever met: practical, quick, innovative and concise.”
Vincent Tan
“Vincent offers quick responses and can give commercial feedback on the deal.”
Work highlights
Drafting, filing and prosecuting patents for National University of Singapore and Duke-NUS Medical School.
Filing and prosecution of patents, trademarks and designs for Dyson Technology.
Key clients
Anthr, Government Technology Agency, Nippon Paint Holdings
The Mirandah Group of companies includes Mirandah Asia and Mirandah Law. Mirandah Law has a significant IP footprint in Asia with a proven track record of representing major multinationals in complex IP disputes and contentious issues. Mirandah Asia is a boutique practice providing a full suite of non-contentious services in all IP areas for numerous countries around the region. It has a very busy prosecution practice that includes some of the highest volume of filings in Singapore. The firm Mirandah Law has five lawyers handling contentious and non-contentious IP work, supported by around 40 technical patent specialists and trademark executives in its affiliated companies across Asia. It is particularly strong in the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector. Managing partner Denise Mirandah and partner Suhaimi Lazim are key figures at Mirandah Law, while Gladys Mirandah is the managing partner of Mirandah Asia.
Work highlights
Acted for L`Air Liquide SA on obtaining a foreign filing licence where the Air Liquide Global E&C Solutions Singapore should be included as the entity seeking authority alongside the inventor.
Advised a life sciences company on the removal of an inadvertently included applicant.
Assisted a global pharmaceutical company on patent term extension for different jurisdictions.
Represented an education group in a trademark opposition against Allschools for the registration of the trademark “Allschool”. In dispute was the scope of what makes a mark well-known in Singapore, and the requisite evidential threshold to determine if a mark is well-known.
Mirandah Law is part of the Mirandah Group of companies that includes Mirandah Asia. Mirandah Law has a significant IP footprint in Asia with a proven track record of representing major multinationals in complex IP disputes and registrations. Mirandah Asia is a boutique practice providing non-contentious services in all IP areas for numerous countries around the region, with notable prosecution work. The firm Mirandah Law has five lawyers handling contentious and non-contentious IP work, supported by around 40 technical patent specialists and trademark executives in its affiliated companies across Asia. It is particularly strong in the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector. Managing partner Denise Mirandah and partner Suhaimi Bin Lazim are key figures at Mirandah Law, while Gladys Mirandah is the managing partner of Mirandah Asia.
Work highlights
Representing Parkway Holdings in trademark prosecution matters and its associated companies in order to register its global trademark portfolio in over 20 countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, India, Sudan, China and Kenya.
Established in 2016, OC Queen Street is a member of Osborne Clarke’s international legal practice. The firm is exceptionally active across the TMT, digital businesses, fintech sectors. The firm serves clients in the Asia-Pacific, European and US markets. The firm also advises on various IP matters, with particular strength in copyright protection. Chia Ling Koh is the main contact at the firm.
Client feedback
“Very responsive and understands the market and industry very well.” – Dispute resolution
“Personal approach; work ethic; excellent communication; timely and precise.” – Dispute resolution
Yvette Anthony
“Strengths include good communication, understanding, drilling down, explanations, problem-solving, work ethic, exceeding expectations.”
Work highlights
Represented SingTel in proceedings commenced by the intellectual property rights holder seeking the court’s order to have SingTel prohibit its users from accessing certain sites that infringe upon the holder’s intellectual property rights.
Ravindran Associates is a boutique intellectual property firm renowned for handling contentious IP matters. Additionally, it has an active enforcement practice dealing with online and offline infringements. Managing partner Ravindran Muthucumarasamy is the key contact, he leads a team that includes four partners and two associates. Partner Alvin Lim departed for Withers KhattarWong last year.
Client feedback
“They have vast experience in IP and they are able to balance client's business needs and IP rights protection.” – Intellectual property
“They understand and are able to focus on the core issues of the matter. The lawyers talk in a client-oriented language and are efficient.” – Intellectual property
Ravindran Muthucumarasamy
“He is very honest and upfront about discussing different IP legal matters from trends to obscure points of law. He is extremely intelligent and happy to share his knowledge.”
Work highlights
Acted for the representative body for wine grape growers and winemakers in Australia, Australian Grape & Wine Incorporated, in opposing an application by an Italian consortium to register “Prosecco” as a geographical indication denoting wines only originating from a specified region in Italy.
Represented Louis Vuitton Malletier in opposing an application by a Chinese vehicle company to register “Human Horizons” as a trademark.
Advised Bulgari in a High Court suit for trademark infringement and passing off against a medical services company.
Key clients
Calvin Klein, Christian Dior, Ferrero, GrabTaxi Holdings, L’Oreal, Minor Food Group, NBC Universal, Rolex
Withers KhattarWong is regularly sought out by high-profile private clients and banks for its expertise in financing, dispute resolution, tax and corporate matters. The firm’s funds practice is growing, backed by its established tax advisory team. The managing partner Deborah Barker is a key figure. Other lawyers to note include Chenthil Kumarasingam and Pardeep Khosa for disputes, Jonathan Kok for IP and TMT, and Eric Roose for tax.
Work highlights
Assisted a Singapore-based accommodation assets company on its global trademark portfolio, including advising on the protection of new brands and trademark oppositions.
Acting for a domestic hair and beauty group on the protection of its brands around the world
A formidable market leader in the full gamut of corporate and finance matters, WongPartnership comprises over 300 lawyers in eight global cities. It offers extensive experience in handling high-stakes structured finance, M&A, funds, private equity, project finance and syndicated loans. The firm also has plentiful expertise on big-ticket domestic and cross-border disputes involving corporate, construction, insolvency and regulatory matters. Key lawyers include Susan Wong for banking and finance, Ameera Ashraf for competition, Andrew Ang and Wai King Ng for corporate and M&A and private equity, Alvin Yeo and Koh Swee Yen SC for dispute resolution, and Manoj Pillay Sandrasegara for restructuring and insolvency. In addition, Chung Nian Lam, Kah Keong Low, Jenny Tsin and Dorothy Marie Ng are regarded for their work in IP, investment funds, employment and real estate, respectively.
Client feedback
"Highly professional, deep and wide bench of dedicated talent with a strong commitment to deliver." – Banking and finance
"Very committed, responsive and highly professional across the team." – Real estate
"The team provides in-depth analysis of issues with practical solutions." – Real estate
Monica Yip
"She has a deep and strong knowledge of the sector and always goes the extra mile to help us resolve issues and ensure that her client's interests are met within the commercial environment. Meets tight timelines."
"She knows exactly what issues we are facing from first engagement and gives both in-depth and practical advice."
Work highlights
Advised a leading aircraft engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul provider in complex negotiations with a globally renowned aircraft engine manufacturer on IP licensing arrangements.
Adi Law is a specialist investment funds firm that works with fund managers and investors in relation to open-end and closed-end funds. Clients manage a variety of asset classes and employ different investment strategies. The firm is headed up by managing director Amit Dhume, who has nearly two decades of experience in corporate and financial services law. He is highly adept at advising fund managers in procuring licences in Singapore for Singapore management companies. He has also advised on fund formation in Singapore and in offshore jurisdictions by providing regulatory advice and draughting fund documentation. The firm boasts an impressive client base of hedge funds, PE funds, real estate and infrastructure funds, VC funds and family office funds.
Client feedback
"Partner-driven attention, technical expertise and deep expertise at handing investment funds." – Investment funds
"They’re speedy and accurate." – Investment funds
"Adi Law is very meticulous with their work, and very responsive for quick processing of my requests. They are knowledgeable about the financial sector laws and issues and give the best advice for all the relevant issues related to our projects." – Investment funds
"Adi Law is highly responsive, pragmatic, and commercially minded. They are able to work efficiently with multiple stakeholders – including fund administrators, tax advisors, and regulators – while keeping the legal process smooth and well-coordinated. Their understanding of fund structuring in Singapore, particularly the VCC framework, has been very helpful." – Investment funds
"I appreciate their timeliness of delivery and responsiveness." – Investment funds
"Extremely commercially savvy, quick turnaround, easy accessibility, can-do attitude, and excellent problem solving." – Private equity
"Very intuitive and remarkable turnaround times while maintaining top-level professionalism." – Regulatory
Amit Dhume
"Provides individual attention, very sharp and technically sound."
"Very knowledgeable and responsive to client needs."
"He’s a problem solver. He listens and works fast to come up with innovative solutions."
"He is very responsive. He thinks out of the box for solutions to issues. He knows the legal requirements and processes very well."
"Amit is responsive, pragmatic, and easy to work with. He has a strong understanding of fund structuring and can navigate complex matters efficiently. He communicates clearly, coordinates well with counterparties, and remains solution-oriented even under time pressure."
“Excellent client management and quality of work.
"He’s clear and precise."
Work highlights
Advised Alpha Quest on the formation and launch of an algorithmic trading fund.
Represented Alpha Alternatives Singapore on its umbrella variable capital fund documents, which had to be amended to take in US-domiciled investors.
Established in late 2020, BTPLaw is a boutique corporate law firm with a notable specialism in investment funds and private equity. In particular, it is reputed for advising on fund formation, regulatory compliance and complex financial transactions. It has been established as a market leader for deals using the Singapore variable capital company (VCC) structure. At the time of research, BTPLaw had closed 20% of the global market share of VCC fund formation structures.
In addition to its core areas, the firm covers mergers and acquisitions, equity capital markets, and general corporate work, and is active in the blockchain and cryptocurrency spaces. The firm has its own BVI practice, headed up by an offshore law veteran, and is uniquely able to handle BVI fund matters in-house. Managing director Brandon Tee is the key contact.
Work highlights
Advised Azure Capital in forming the Azure-GushCloud Entertainment Finance Fund. Structured as a sub-fund under the Azure Prime Fund VCC, it focuses on providing capital advances to key opinion leaders in the marketing sector.
Assisted in the establishment of the Virtue Growth Fund, a sub-fund under the Green Power Equity Fund VCC.
CHP Law is a full-service firm with ties to CNPLaw, its senior consultant being Colin Ng. The team has particular strengths in regulatory compliance, investment funds, intellectual property, real estate and dispute resolution. Its team is highly experienced in handling complex, high-stakes matters that often cut across multiple jurisdictions and legal disciplines. The firm boasts a solid track record at handling multi-jurisdictional, complex legal challenges that often sit at the intersection of technology, finance and regulatory compliance. The TMT group has demonstrated its know-how in emerging sectors like Web3, digital assets and innovative financial structures.
One of the firm’s standout capabilities is its deep expertise in regulatory law, especially within the financial services sector. The team has successfully guided clients through intricate licensing processes, capital requirements, and ongoing regulatory challenges. The firm has a proven track record of advising capital markets licensees, cryptocurrency players, and fund managers, demonstrating a thorough understanding of Singapore’s regulatory landscape as well as foreign jurisdictions like the Cayman Islands.
The investment funds practice is another notably robust group that routinely works with clients on fund formation and structuring, including ventures into variable capital companies (VCCs) and segregated portfolio companies. The firm supports venture capital funds investing in technology startups in Asia and has experience working with family offices on bespoke fund structures tailored to high-net-worth individuals.
The firm’s IP practice is unique, with a strategic approach to IP beyond traditional patent and trademark registrations. The firm offers IP strategy consulting that helps clients leverage their intangible assets to transform and diversify their business models. The IP team has worked with major corporations in the energy and technology sectors to devise IP strategies that support structural shifts away from traditional operations. This forward-thinking approach positions them uniquely as advisers who connect legal IP considerations to broader business goals, including brand valuation and innovation ecosystems.
Dispute resolution is another core strength, with the team adept at managing a broad spectrum of contentious matters, from high-profile corporate disputes to cross-border insolvency cases. CHP Law has handled landmark litigation involving cryptocurrency insolvencies, hostile takeovers of hospitality assets, shareholder oppression claims, and professional negligence.
Their clients range from founders of distressed tech companies to family offices and multinational corporations. The firm is also trusted for representing individuals in complex commercial disputes and criminal cases, achieving notable outcomes such as full acquittals in difficult trials.
In real estate, CHP Law is known for handling sophisticated transactions involving state land and high-value residential and commercial properties. The firm has managed complex lease structures for government-linked entities like the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, including ground-breaking arrangements for airport land leases involving strata lots. They also work on high-value residential transactions involving stamp duty optimisation and creative property structuring, reflecting an ability to navigate both regulatory constraints and client commercial objectives effectively.
The firm is helmed by managing partner Christopher Huang and includes seven senior lawyers, including funds and FSR specialist Ian Phung, IP and intangible assets expert Dixon Soh, real estate specialist Tan Ching Chern, dispute resolution partner Danny Quah and private client expert Kannan Nadarajan.
Client feedback
"The lawyers are proactive, provide professional opinions and advice, and put in extra time to get the work done." – Corporate and M&A
"Great attention to detail and client management." – Corporate and M&A
"Lawyers are meticulous and provide strategic solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Good size. Good lawyers." – Dispute resolution
"Advice provided is very commercial and the director in charge is very responsive." – Dispute resolution
"Clear communications, prompt and reasonably quick turnaround." – Dispute resolution
"They have been positive and patient in handling all our queries and requests." – Investment funds
"Responsive and have expertise in funds." – Investment funds
"Perfect guidance and support, fast responses and friendly." – Investment funds
"Demonstrate expertise and competency, integrity and ethics and a client-centered approach. They promptly address client enquiries, keeping them informed and accessible when needed." – Investment funds
"Excellent client servicing." – Intellectual property
"Flexible but professional. Strong industry knowledge." – Private equity
"They explain the rationale, took many aspects into account to interpret the law specific to our case. They understood the limits of our processes and how to structure our case to show we acted in good faith." – Regulatory
"Partners are very accessible and available to provide advice. Advice is practical and aligned with the mandate. Flexible pricing for smaller firms." – Regulatory
"CHP Law stands out for its deep expertise in financial regulation and its strong grasp of emerging sectors like digital assets. The team is responsive, pragmatic, and solutions-oriented – able to simplify complex legal issues while remaining precise and thorough. They consistently deliver high-quality advice with a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, making them a trusted legal partner for any capital markets or Web3-related matters." – Regulatory
Raj Mannar
"Gives professional and sound advice and is responsive."
"Great attention to detail and keeps the client informed and made to feel important."
Ian Phung
"Extremely knowledgeable in his field of expertise. He is always ready to provide advice and is easy to talk to."
"Provides practical advice which addresses the problem at hand."
"He gave us very clear guidance with his professionalism, and he is also very kind and nice."
"He is patient."
"He is responsive and has a strong sense of responsibility."
"Great problem-solving ability and responsiveness."
"Ian is highly professional, responsive, and pragmatic. He goes beyond standard legal support by clearly outlining both the regulatory expectations and the practical boundaries. His advice is always well-considered and precise – often recommending a stricter approach to ensure we stay fully compliant and avoid any future issues. A true partner we can rely on."
Danny Quah
"He will listen and ask thorough questions."
"Strategic and empathetic."
"Sharp analysis, good strategizing, valuable advice, clear communication and prompt turnaround."
"Danny is very responsive and offers creative yet commercial solutions."
Dixon Soh
"Excellent client servicing and explains matters succinctly and clearly."
Work highlights
Advised a Singapore-based venture capital fund manager on an investment into a Chinese technology company.
Assisted a licensed fund manager to launch a new close-ended fund using a segregated portfolio company structure in the Cayman Islands.
Represented a multi-family office fund manager in structuring several sub-funds with bespoke requirements.
JT Legal is a boutique law firm recognised for its expertise in corporate law, banking and finance, and investment funds. The firm has carved a niche in providing tailored legal solutions to startups and established businesses, with managing director and investment funds specialist Joshua Tan leading the team. The firm is noted for its strategic advisory on fund formation and compliance, as well as its handling of intricate financing arrangements.
Work highlights
Advised an Asia-based AIF on the establishment of a sub-fund aimed at financing agricultural activities in emerging markets.
RHTLaw Asia is a full-service firm that has a well-respected technology practice. Boasting partners that are qualified in multiple jurisdictions such as China, US, Hong Kong, Australia and Malaysia, the firm routinely handles complex cross-border transactions. The firm is organised around eight industry groups: consumer brands, healthcare and life sciences, private wealth, technology and media, construction and projects, financial institutions and technology, transportation and logistics, and education. The technology group specialises in tech infrastructure, blockchain, data processing and telecommunications. The key contacts include corporate partners Erwan Barre and Eu Jin Yang, IP specialist Rizwi Wun and disputes leader Nandakumar Renganathan. The corporate and capital markets groups last winter welcomed partners Parikhit Sarma and Esther Wee from Virtus Law and Harry Elias Partnership, respectively.
Client feedback
“They have amazing customer service, are passionate about their job and their knowledge is unparalleled. Total empathy for clients.” – Dispute resolution
“Organised, efficient, understands the interaction of business and law, cost-conscious and smart.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive and excellent professional advice provided by the lawyers.” – Intellectual property
Sharon Chong
“Had empathy and total understanding of the subject-matter. Amazing advice and foresight.”
“Sharon was always genuine and sincere in offering help. At every interaction she was always positive yet realistic. I am not exaggerating when I say Sharon was a god-sent angel into my life. In my darkest days, she was doing all the work at the back, so I can stand on my feet again. She was empathetic, passionate and appropriately aggressive when she needs to protect and exert her client's rights. Sharon never fails to provide me with different options and solutions when I seek her professional opinion. It's truly comforting to know someone like her exists in her line of work.”
“Sharon was always prompt to deliver, but more than that, always provided different options and perspectives for me. This is invaluable from a business standpoint because sometimes there are really better ways to do things, ways that are more amicable, professional and pocket-friendly.”
Esther Wee
“Effective, responsive and resourceful.”
Rizwi Wun
“Smart, knowledgeable, creative, business-savvy and organised. He gets that almost every legal decision is at its core a business decision and understands how to navigate that potential conflict.”
Work highlights
Acted for Falcon Investment Advisors on the formation of a VCC investing into public equities of India and other emerging markets.
Represented InCorp Global on the formation of a private equity VCC with each sub-fund having its own investment metrics.
Key clients
Lima Capital Asia, NH Hedge Asset Management, RHT DigiCapital
Withers KhattarWong is regularly sought out by high-profile private clients and banks for its expertise in financing, dispute resolution, tax and corporate matters. The firm’s funds practice is growing, backed by its established tax advisory team. The managing partner Deborah Barker is a key figure. Other lawyers to note include Chenthil Kumarasingam and Pardeep Khosa for disputes, Jonathan Kok for IP and TMT, and Eric Roose for tax.
Work highlights
Advised a domestic private bank on the formation of new sub-funds.
Acted for a Singapore based private credit investment manager on their first and subsequent closings of a Singapore-domiciled credit fund.
Bird & Bird ATMD upholds its ‘Outstanding’ ranking with a strong intellectual property practice and expertise in the technology and telecommunications sector. Lorraine Tay and Alban Kang are key figures for IP. The firm is also active in capital markets, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, energy and labour and employment. This year it moves up in the energy table, and debuts in the construction and private equity categories. Marcus Chow, Sandra Seah and Beng Chai Tay are the main corporate partners at the firm. Jonathan Choo is a dispute resolution lawyer particularly active in international arbitration and Seow Hui Goh focuses on labour and employment.
Client feedback
“Extremely pragmatic and commercial, excellent attention to detail, but does not belabour legal points unnecessarily.” – Aviation
“Commercially sound while providing solid legal advice and willing to go the extra mile.” – Aviation
“Responsive, practical and commercial-oriented.” – Capital markets
“Proactive and responsible.” – Capital markets
“Responsive with the ability to anticipate and identify potential issues. Has the ability to propose solutions.” – Capital markets
“Fast and logical responses.” – Competition/antitrust
“Highly responsive and can devise value-adding solutions to commercial issues.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm's legal documents are sophisticated and can capture most legal issues that we need to mitigate or prevent. When there is an issue, they are quick to provide solutions.” – Corporate and M&A
“Staff are timely, dedicated, professional, responsive and client-oriented.” – Corporate and M&A
“Prompt and completed the work within the schedule.” – Corporate and M&A
“Professional and efficient.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, work effectively within time frame.” – Corporate and M&A
“It has comprehensive in-depth knowledge of the energy industry and thus is in position to provide good advice” – Energy
“The partner is helpful and turnaround time is quick. Great service.” – Intellectual property
“They are very responsive and the team has demonstrated in past projects their ability to deliver commercially sensible legal advice at very competitive fee quotes.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive, understands our business and our needs.” – Privacy and data protection
“Fast, reliable and a trusted partner.” – Private equity
“Completed the task promptly.” – Regulatory
Chua Lijun
“Receptive, fast responses and good knowledge of the relevant law and good understanding of the issues.”
Goh Seow Hui
“We value her professionalism, compassion for clients and humility.”
“Seow Hui did an outstanding job of understanding the client's needs. She advised me what was best for the client. She handled the case so swiftly to settle it amicably and moved on. I am impressed by her professionalism to take ownership after [another] lawyer left the firm. She took the responsibility of closing it. I am pleased with her customer service and compassion.”
Jeremy Tan
“Responsive, great attention to detail, he is client and results oriented.”
Jolie Giouw
“Highly responsive, she identifies the key issues quickly and comes out with solutions. We have always been impressed.”
“Excellent service-oriented mindset, has strong commercial acumen and able to advise well on the law.”
“Responsive and experienced. Able to provide prompt and quality advice and solutions.”
Lawrence Wong
“Communicates well to solve all the requirements requested by the SGX in Singapore.”
Leo Fattorini
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly. With counterparts he comes across very well without compromising our position.”
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly.”
“He has industry-wide knowledge of the Asian region, and is commercially savvy when it comes to negotiating with external parties.”
“Fast turnaround time and knowledgeable.”
Marcus Chow
“Marcus is knowledgeable in early-stage transactions and he is always available to the team to provide an opinion.”
“He is very smart and has extensive knowledge in venture capital investment as well as M&A.”
“Listens to what the client wants, and provides accurate suggestions and solutions.”
“Responsive, responsible and is able to communicate effectively with people of all levels.”
“Very commercial and good understanding of the client's needs.”
“Responsive, has ability to propose innovative solutions, and has good client relationship management.”
“Provides in-depth knowledge and advice to the board, resolving issues with advance steps taken.”
“Marcus was very responsive and can be depended on to deliver sound pragmatic advice, even outside of regular office hours. He is also quick to understand the commercial issues at hand, and propose solutions to address these issues.”
Sandrea Seah
“Very helpful and exhibits very good in-depth industrial knowledge. Gives very sound advice.”
“Professional, good listener, understands issues quickly and timely in responses.”
Work highlights
Representing a marketing solutions company, its Singapore subsidiary and its director in defending a High Court suit brought by an ex-contractor alleging multiple complex claims for breach of contract, unjust enrichment, breach of fiduciary duties and conspiracy.
Advising a multinational payments company in an employee investigation following whistle-blower allegations.
Representing an international school located in Singapore in an unfair dismissal claim by former faculty staff.
Successfully represented a major liquefied natural gas company in Singapore and its former employee in defending wrongful dismissal and conspiracy claims brought by a former commodities trader.
Collyer Law has a robust corporate law practice, including strengths in labour and employment and in the technology and telecommunications sectors. The firm has a focused approach to advising startups and venture capital firms, offering comprehensive support from initial funding through to mergers and acquisitions. The firm’s technology group excels in providing legal counsel to startups and established companies, helping them navigate regulatory frameworks and compliance issues. The lawyers’ deep understanding of the tech landscape allows them to offer strategic advice on matters such as intellectual property protection, data privacy, and software licensing. The key partners are managing director Azmul Haque, Eric Lai and Ashley Chew.
Work highlights
Advised a tech startup on cross-border employee restructuring and terminations during an acquisition.
Supported the Singaporean arm of a French conglomerate in integrating Aesop's operations by providing critical advice on employment and data-protection matters post-acquisition.
Founded in 2016, Covenant Chambers has built a strong reputation in several key practice areas, including dispute resolution, corporate and M&A, and capital markets. The firm's lawyers are recognised for their deep subject-matter expertise, strategic advisory capabilities, and ability to handle complex, high-stakes matters. The firm leverages digital automation to serve clients on technology-driven advisory and strategic solutions.
For dispute resolution, the firm has an impressive track record of success, particularly in handling multi-jurisdictional disputes involving allegations of conspiracy, breach of fiduciary duties, and intellectual property infringement. The team works with individuals, as well as institutional clients and businesses across a range of industries on contentious corporate commercial, IP and employment matters, among others.
The team's in-depth understanding of emerging technologies like cryptocurrency and digital assets has enabled them to navigate novel legal issues and achieve favourable outcomes for clients. For example, the firm recently represented a group of over 80 claimants in a multi-million-dollar claim against a cryptocurrency exchange operator, successfully obtaining summary judgment that was upheld on appeal.
The corporate and M&A practice is fairly new but rapidly growing under the leadership of Pei Tong Ng, who joined the firm in early 2025 from Drew & Napier. Ng has extensive experience advising on high-profile M&A transactions, public company takeovers, and capital markets deals across a diverse range of industries, including technology, telecommunications, infrastructure and consumer goods. The capital markets team is also spearheaded by Ng. It has demonstrated its ability to navigate complex regulatory requirements and facilitate successful fundraising exercises for clients.
The firm is helmed by managing director Ee Yang Lee and deputy managing director Ronald JJ Wong. Lee is a contentious real estate expert, while Wong has a strength in technology disputes. They lead a team of no less than eight senior practitioners, including four directors and four associate directors.
Work highlights
Successfully defended a major retail coffee chain against claims by a former managing director, while also counterclaiming for breaches of employee and director duties, resulting in a favourable resolution.
Provided comprehensive legal advice on Singapore employment and corporate matters to a top-tier Chinese gaming company, ensuring compliance and strategic alignment with local laws.
Helmsman is a leading law firm that is renowned for its expertise across various practice areas, notably shipping, dispute resolution, and labour and employment. It boasts a roster of respected and experienced legal professionals that includes managing director Ian Teo, Maureen Poh, Zhida Chen and Peter Huang. The team has played central roles in numerous high-stakes maritime matters and is carving out a specialty in complex contentious labour cases. It has a unique strength in understanding the cross-border legal challenges in international trade, commodities and shipping entanglements.
Work highlights
Successfully defended a multinational corporation in a wrongful termination case, effectively dismissing the employee's claims and safeguarding the company's reputation.
IRB Law has six dedicated labour and employment lawyers acting for both employers and employees. It covers a wide range of employment matters from unfair dismissal, non-payment of correct salary, discrimination and breach of contract. Mohamed Baiross and Muntaz Zainuddin are key figures at the firm.
Client feedback
“Ability to keep the legal fees within the budgeted amount. Ability to keep put up a strong defence and reduced the number of charges brought against me to a large extent. Quoted relevant case law to defend my position.” – Labour and employment
Work highlights
Advised a client on his rights and how to change the situation to redundancy or mutual separation from termination or forced resignation.
Established over 30 years ago, PK Wong & Nair is known for its expertise in dispute resolution, restructuring and insolvency, and corporate and commercial law. The team has a wealth of experience in a broad range of commercial disputes arising out of breaches of securities regulations, commodity trading disputes, insolvency, employment and contractual disputes, and estate claims.
The firm is particularly well-regarded for its expertise in contentious matters, with a team that has represented clients in significant cases before Singapore's highest courts. Notable achievements include successfully defending multinational corporations and individuals in high-profile litigation and arbitration cases. The firm has also played a crucial role in various insolvency matters, acting for liquidators and creditors in complex cross-border situations.
Key individuals at the firm include co-managing director and seasoned disputes specialist Suresh Nair, and directors Andrew Ang, Bryan Tan, Basil Ong, Jennifer Chih and Jacinda Wong. Co-managing director Mark Wong heads up the commercial and corporate division.
At the beginning of 2023, PK Wong & Nair entered into a joint law venture with international firm Mayer Brown. This entity can provide clients with integrated and seamless advice on international and Singapore law. Local litigation is provided through PK Wong & Nair.
The firm offers unique capabilities in the technology sector, particularly regarding cryptocurrency and digital asset disputes. Its lawyers have acted for clients in significant arbitration cases related to cryptocurrency trading firms, reflecting the growing importance of this sector in Singapore's legal landscape.
Client feedback
"Great listening to the issues. Solid legal advice and experience in providing sound solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Great insights into customer contracts and other company-related contracts." – Infrastructure
"Provides quick responses to difficult situations." – Real estate
"They are able to highlight and concisely summarise key issues to allow for effective negotiations between deal principals. This is key especially when timelines are tight. They are also good at scaling up and down their resources to support assignments." – Real estate
Suresh Nair
"Great personality, approachable, a good listener, and he delivers professional advice."
Marianne Yeo
"Prompt responses, in-depth knowledge and advice."
"She's great at highlighting and advising on key issues to facilitate negotiations, is responsive, detailed and knowledgeable."
Successfully defended claims against two former directors of a Japanese company for alleged breaches of fiduciary duties, demonstrating that the directors acted within their rights and did not divert business opportunities unlawfully.
Represented a crypto-exchange in a high-stakes wrongful termination claim brought by a former executive, where we maintain that the termination was justified due to multiple breaches of the employment agreement.
Acted for a digital asset trading platform in arbitration proceedings against a former employee regarding breach of a non-compete clause.
Advised an NGO on workplace harassment allegations made against its senior leadership, conducting investigations into the claims.
TSMP Law Corporation is a prestigious, mid-sized law firm renowned for its expertise in dispute resolution, corporate law, and private client services. Recognized for its strategic and innovative approach, the firm effectively handles complex legal issues for a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations, local businesses, and high-net-worth individuals. The firm not only acts for various major corporations and financial institutions but also is frequently sought out by different regulatory bodies.
A key strength of TSMP lies in its dispute resolution capabilities, particularly in litigation and arbitration. The dispute resolution practice proudly states that it takes on difficult cases, ones that test, shape or advance the law. The disputes team covers the full gamut of litigation and arbitration, notably complex commercial and corporate litigation with a focus on boardroom, shareholder and investment disputes. There is additionally a growing practice specialising in the crypto-space, working with clients across the ecosystem from investors to exchanges.
The firm’s lawyers are adept at managing intricate disputes, whether in court or through alternative mechanisms, and are frequently engaged in high-stakes commercial cases. On the corporate front, the firm excels in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, corporate governance, and compliance, offering clients comprehensive legal advice tailored to their business objectives. TSMP is also known for its private client practice, where it provides bespoke solutions for wealth management, estate planning, and family business succession.
TSMP serves a wide range of industries, including banking and finance, construction and engineering, employment, corporate real estate, and private wealth. It is also expanding its focus into emerging sectors such as technology and fintech, positioning itself to address the legal challenges of digital transformation.
The TSMP team includes some of Singapore’s most respected legal professionals, including two senior counsels. Joint managing partner Thio Shen Yi SC is a leading figure in litigation and arbitration, known for his ability to navigate complex disputes. Joint managing partner Stefanie Yuen Thio is an illustrious corporate law specialist with a focus on capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance.
Other notable figures include Jeffrey Chan SC, disputes specialist Felicia Tan, who has contributed to high-profile discussions such as the Bukom Island shutdown, and employment specialist Ian Lim, who is recognized for his insights into workplace injury scams. The firm’s strength is further bolstered by experienced partners like construction specialists Derek Loh and Melvin Chan, and Jennifer Chia and Leon Lim in corporate law, as well as consultants like Professors Tang Hang Wu and Hans Tjio, who bring academic depth to their respective specialties.
Work highlights
Acted for a Singapore insurance company on equity and compensation issues during its multi-billion dollar sale to a Japan-based insurer.
Advised the Singaporean subsidiary of a Chinese SOE in a claim against former employees who conspired against the company.
Represented a global quality assurance company in a High Court dispute over non-compete obligations against a former employee. This case highlighted the enforcement of contractual obligations in the competitive IT sector.
Bird & Bird ATMD upholds its ‘Outstanding’ ranking with a strong intellectual property practice and expertise in the technology and telecommunications sector. Lorraine Tay and Alban Kang are key figures for IP. The firm is also active in capital markets, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, energy and labour and employment. This year it moves up in the energy table, and debuts in the construction and private equity categories. Marcus Chow, Sandra Seah and Beng Chai Tay are the main corporate partners at the firm. Jonathan Choo is a dispute resolution lawyer particularly active in international arbitration and Seow Hui Goh focuses on labour and employment.
Client feedback
“Extremely pragmatic and commercial, excellent attention to detail, but does not belabour legal points unnecessarily.” – Aviation
“Commercially sound while providing solid legal advice and willing to go the extra mile.” – Aviation
“Responsive, practical and commercial-oriented.” – Capital markets
“Proactive and responsible.” – Capital markets
“Responsive with the ability to anticipate and identify potential issues. Has the ability to propose solutions.” – Capital markets
“Fast and logical responses.” – Competition/antitrust
“Highly responsive and can devise value-adding solutions to commercial issues.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm's legal documents are sophisticated and can capture most legal issues that we need to mitigate or prevent. When there is an issue, they are quick to provide solutions.” – Corporate and M&A
“Staff are timely, dedicated, professional, responsive and client-oriented.” – Corporate and M&A
“Prompt and completed the work within the schedule.” – Corporate and M&A
“Professional and efficient.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, work effectively within time frame.” – Corporate and M&A
“It has comprehensive in-depth knowledge of the energy industry and thus is in position to provide good advice” – Energy
“The partner is helpful and turnaround time is quick. Great service.” – Intellectual property
“They are very responsive and the team has demonstrated in past projects their ability to deliver commercially sensible legal advice at very competitive fee quotes.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive, understands our business and our needs.” – Privacy and data protection
“Fast, reliable and a trusted partner.” – Private equity
“Completed the task promptly.” – Regulatory
Chua Lijun
“Receptive, fast responses and good knowledge of the relevant law and good understanding of the issues.”
Goh Seow Hui
“We value her professionalism, compassion for clients and humility.”
“Seow Hui did an outstanding job of understanding the client's needs. She advised me what was best for the client. She handled the case so swiftly to settle it amicably and moved on. I am impressed by her professionalism to take ownership after [another] lawyer left the firm. She took the responsibility of closing it. I am pleased with her customer service and compassion.”
Jeremy Tan
“Responsive, great attention to detail, he is client and results oriented.”
Jolie Giouw
“Highly responsive, she identifies the key issues quickly and comes out with solutions. We have always been impressed.”
“Excellent service-oriented mindset, has strong commercial acumen and able to advise well on the law.”
“Responsive and experienced. Able to provide prompt and quality advice and solutions.”
Lawrence Wong
“Communicates well to solve all the requirements requested by the SGX in Singapore.”
Leo Fattorini
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly. With counterparts he comes across very well without compromising our position.”
“Leo is responsive, accessible and user-friendly.”
“He has industry-wide knowledge of the Asian region, and is commercially savvy when it comes to negotiating with external parties.”
“Fast turnaround time and knowledgeable.”
Marcus Chow
“Marcus is knowledgeable in early-stage transactions and he is always available to the team to provide an opinion.”
“He is very smart and has extensive knowledge in venture capital investment as well as M&A.”
“Listens to what the client wants, and provides accurate suggestions and solutions.”
“Responsive, responsible and is able to communicate effectively with people of all levels.”
“Very commercial and good understanding of the client's needs.”
“Responsive, has ability to propose innovative solutions, and has good client relationship management.”
“Provides in-depth knowledge and advice to the board, resolving issues with advance steps taken.”
“Marcus was very responsive and can be depended on to deliver sound pragmatic advice, even outside of regular office hours. He is also quick to understand the commercial issues at hand, and propose solutions to address these issues.”
Sandrea Seah
“Very helpful and exhibits very good in-depth industrial knowledge. Gives very sound advice.”
“Professional, good listener, understands issues quickly and timely in responses.”
Work highlights
Acted for Woowa Brothers’ SAFE investment into a Malaysian e-commerce company.
Advised AIZEN Asia Pacific on its Series B investment round.
Key clients
Altair ASEAN Fund, PI Opportunities Fund, United Overseas Bank, Vulcan Capital Singapore Management
TLB focuses on commercial and corporate transactions, capital markets and corporate reorganisations involving both private and public companies, non-profit organisations and entrepreneurs. Due to the founder’s long track record as an in-house counsel at a telecoms firm, TLB has deep expertise in the telecommunications industry. Clients seek the team out for advice on the financial and emerging technologies space, as the lawyers are well-versed in blockchain technologies and crypto-tokens, as well as related services and the attendant legal and regulatory implications. Its clients range from founders of layer-1 or 2 public blockchains, non-profit token foundations, dApps, DAOs, web 3 companies, private investment funds and crypto-exchanges to centralised and decentralised financial intermediaries. The firm has completed over 400 varied transactions, more than half being cross-border. Philippe Taverne and Mathilde Broustau are key contacts. They are qualified to practise Singapore, French and UK law.
Work highlights
Advised a venture capital company on its investment in Gozem, Africa's leading super app, by conducting a comprehensive due diligence exercise.
Acted for a Singapore-based venture capital firm in a joint venture with Three Arrows Capital to optimise its participation in a major cryptocurrency trading platform.
BR Law Corporation provides a strong dispute resolution offering for clients, with its roots in litigation and arbitration planted long before the firm was rebranded into its current iteration 15 years ago. The team is well-versed in complex commercial disputes and boasts a panel of experienced litigators who have advocated at the highest levels of court. The family and matrimonial practice is another busy bright spot for the firm, with its key practitioners working across a spectrum of family issues, from separation to annulments, and adoption to divorce.
The firm has expanded its reach into China and India, with the opening of two branches in China as well as forming alliances with law firms in Shanghai, Guangdong, Chongqing, Hong Kong and in India.
BR Law Corporation's real-estate practice is distinguished by its comprehensive approach to property transactions and regulatory compliance. The firm is adept at handling a wide range of real-estate matters, including the acquisition, sale and financing of both residential and commercial properties. The practice extends beyond mere transactions, with the firm providing strategic advice on regulatory compliance and risk management. This includes conducting due diligence on property titles and advising clients on the implications of any legal encumbrances. Their expertise ensures that clients are well-informed about potential risks associated with property ownership and transactions.
Managing director Bernard Doray leads a veteran team that includes co-founder and senior consultant S Radakrishnan and disputes specialists Soon Yien Foo, Sivakumar Ponnampalam, Daniel Loh and Luke Lee.
Work highlights
Acted for a client to purchase a $28 million Good Class Bungalow, successfully negotiating the removal of adverse contract clauses and managing issues related to encroachment on state land.
Assisted a client in securing mortgage equity withdrawal loans worth $29.2 million amid ongoing litigation.
CHP Law is a full-service firm with ties to CNPLaw, its senior consultant being Colin Ng. The team has particular strengths in regulatory compliance, investment funds, intellectual property, real estate and dispute resolution. Its team is highly experienced in handling complex, high-stakes matters that often cut across multiple jurisdictions and legal disciplines. The firm boasts a solid track record at handling multi-jurisdictional, complex legal challenges that often sit at the intersection of technology, finance and regulatory compliance. The TMT group has demonstrated its know-how in emerging sectors like Web3, digital assets and innovative financial structures.
One of the firm’s standout capabilities is its deep expertise in regulatory law, especially within the financial services sector. The team has successfully guided clients through intricate licensing processes, capital requirements, and ongoing regulatory challenges. The firm has a proven track record of advising capital markets licensees, cryptocurrency players, and fund managers, demonstrating a thorough understanding of Singapore’s regulatory landscape as well as foreign jurisdictions like the Cayman Islands.
The investment funds practice is another notably robust group that routinely works with clients on fund formation and structuring, including ventures into variable capital companies (VCCs) and segregated portfolio companies. The firm supports venture capital funds investing in technology startups in Asia and has experience working with family offices on bespoke fund structures tailored to high-net-worth individuals.
The firm’s IP practice is unique, with a strategic approach to IP beyond traditional patent and trademark registrations. The firm offers IP strategy consulting that helps clients leverage their intangible assets to transform and diversify their business models. The IP team has worked with major corporations in the energy and technology sectors to devise IP strategies that support structural shifts away from traditional operations. This forward-thinking approach positions them uniquely as advisers who connect legal IP considerations to broader business goals, including brand valuation and innovation ecosystems.
Dispute resolution is another core strength, with the team adept at managing a broad spectrum of contentious matters, from high-profile corporate disputes to cross-border insolvency cases. CHP Law has handled landmark litigation involving cryptocurrency insolvencies, hostile takeovers of hospitality assets, shareholder oppression claims, and professional negligence.
Their clients range from founders of distressed tech companies to family offices and multinational corporations. The firm is also trusted for representing individuals in complex commercial disputes and criminal cases, achieving notable outcomes such as full acquittals in difficult trials.
In real estate, CHP Law is known for handling sophisticated transactions involving state land and high-value residential and commercial properties. The firm has managed complex lease structures for government-linked entities like the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, including ground-breaking arrangements for airport land leases involving strata lots. They also work on high-value residential transactions involving stamp duty optimisation and creative property structuring, reflecting an ability to navigate both regulatory constraints and client commercial objectives effectively.
The firm is helmed by managing partner Christopher Huang and includes seven senior lawyers, including funds and FSR specialist Ian Phung, IP and intangible assets expert Dixon Soh, real estate specialist Tan Ching Chern, dispute resolution partner Danny Quah and private client expert Kannan Nadarajan.
Client feedback
"The lawyers are proactive, provide professional opinions and advice, and put in extra time to get the work done." – Corporate and M&A
"Great attention to detail and client management." – Corporate and M&A
"Lawyers are meticulous and provide strategic solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Good size. Good lawyers." – Dispute resolution
"Advice provided is very commercial and the director in charge is very responsive." – Dispute resolution
"Clear communications, prompt and reasonably quick turnaround." – Dispute resolution
"They have been positive and patient in handling all our queries and requests." – Investment funds
"Responsive and have expertise in funds." – Investment funds
"Perfect guidance and support, fast responses and friendly." – Investment funds
"Demonstrate expertise and competency, integrity and ethics and a client-centered approach. They promptly address client enquiries, keeping them informed and accessible when needed." – Investment funds
"Excellent client servicing." – Intellectual property
"Flexible but professional. Strong industry knowledge." – Private equity
"They explain the rationale, took many aspects into account to interpret the law specific to our case. They understood the limits of our processes and how to structure our case to show we acted in good faith." – Regulatory
"Partners are very accessible and available to provide advice. Advice is practical and aligned with the mandate. Flexible pricing for smaller firms." – Regulatory
"CHP Law stands out for its deep expertise in financial regulation and its strong grasp of emerging sectors like digital assets. The team is responsive, pragmatic, and solutions-oriented – able to simplify complex legal issues while remaining precise and thorough. They consistently deliver high-quality advice with a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, making them a trusted legal partner for any capital markets or Web3-related matters." – Regulatory
Raj Mannar
"Gives professional and sound advice and is responsive."
"Great attention to detail and keeps the client informed and made to feel important."
Ian Phung
"Extremely knowledgeable in his field of expertise. He is always ready to provide advice and is easy to talk to."
"Provides practical advice which addresses the problem at hand."
"He gave us very clear guidance with his professionalism, and he is also very kind and nice."
"He is patient."
"He is responsive and has a strong sense of responsibility."
"Great problem-solving ability and responsiveness."
"Ian is highly professional, responsive, and pragmatic. He goes beyond standard legal support by clearly outlining both the regulatory expectations and the practical boundaries. His advice is always well-considered and precise – often recommending a stricter approach to ensure we stay fully compliant and avoid any future issues. A true partner we can rely on."
Danny Quah
"He will listen and ask thorough questions."
"Strategic and empathetic."
"Sharp analysis, good strategizing, valuable advice, clear communication and prompt turnaround."
"Danny is very responsive and offers creative yet commercial solutions."
Dixon Soh
"Excellent client servicing and explains matters succinctly and clearly."
Work highlights
Advised the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore on a long-term sublease to Changi Airport Group for developing the Ambassador Transit Hotel at Changi Airport Terminal 2. The project involved complex land use and strata lot considerations.
Guided a client through a property purchase and decoupling strategy, enabling the acquisition of a $19.5 million house while minimising stamp duty obligations.
A formidable market leader in the full gamut of corporate and finance matters, WongPartnership comprises over 300 lawyers in eight global cities. It offers extensive experience in handling high-stakes structured finance, M&A, funds, private equity, project finance and syndicated loans. The firm also has plentiful expertise on big-ticket domestic and cross-border disputes involving corporate, construction, insolvency and regulatory matters. Key lawyers include Susan Wong for banking and finance, Ameera Ashraf for competition, Andrew Ang and Wai King Ng for corporate and M&A and private equity, Alvin Yeo and Koh Swee Yen SC for dispute resolution, and Manoj Pillay Sandrasegara for restructuring and insolvency. In addition, Chung Nian Lam, Kah Keong Low, Jenny Tsin and Dorothy Marie Ng are regarded for their work in IP, investment funds, employment and real estate, respectively.
Client feedback
"Highly professional, deep and wide bench of dedicated talent with a strong commitment to deliver." – Banking and finance
"Very committed, responsive and highly professional across the team." – Real estate
"The team provides in-depth analysis of issues with practical solutions." – Real estate
Monica Yip
"She has a deep and strong knowledge of the sector and always goes the extra mile to help us resolve issues and ensure that her client's interests are met within the commercial environment. Meets tight timelines."
"She knows exactly what issues we are facing from first engagement and gives both in-depth and practical advice."
Work highlights
Acted for CapitaLand Investment on the $1.85 billion divestment of its stake in ION Orchard mall.
Represented ESR REIT on the $840 million acquisition of a logistics facility.
CHP Law is a full-service firm with ties to CNPLaw, its senior consultant being Colin Ng. The team has particular strengths in regulatory compliance, investment funds, intellectual property, real estate and dispute resolution. Its team is highly experienced in handling complex, high-stakes matters that often cut across multiple jurisdictions and legal disciplines. The firm boasts a solid track record at handling multi-jurisdictional, complex legal challenges that often sit at the intersection of technology, finance and regulatory compliance. The TMT group has demonstrated its know-how in emerging sectors like Web3, digital assets and innovative financial structures.
One of the firm’s standout capabilities is its deep expertise in regulatory law, especially within the financial services sector. The team has successfully guided clients through intricate licensing processes, capital requirements, and ongoing regulatory challenges. The firm has a proven track record of advising capital markets licensees, cryptocurrency players, and fund managers, demonstrating a thorough understanding of Singapore’s regulatory landscape as well as foreign jurisdictions like the Cayman Islands.
The investment funds practice is another notably robust group that routinely works with clients on fund formation and structuring, including ventures into variable capital companies (VCCs) and segregated portfolio companies. The firm supports venture capital funds investing in technology startups in Asia and has experience working with family offices on bespoke fund structures tailored to high-net-worth individuals.
The firm’s IP practice is unique, with a strategic approach to IP beyond traditional patent and trademark registrations. The firm offers IP strategy consulting that helps clients leverage their intangible assets to transform and diversify their business models. The IP team has worked with major corporations in the energy and technology sectors to devise IP strategies that support structural shifts away from traditional operations. This forward-thinking approach positions them uniquely as advisers who connect legal IP considerations to broader business goals, including brand valuation and innovation ecosystems.
Dispute resolution is another core strength, with the team adept at managing a broad spectrum of contentious matters, from high-profile corporate disputes to cross-border insolvency cases. CHP Law has handled landmark litigation involving cryptocurrency insolvencies, hostile takeovers of hospitality assets, shareholder oppression claims, and professional negligence.
Their clients range from founders of distressed tech companies to family offices and multinational corporations. The firm is also trusted for representing individuals in complex commercial disputes and criminal cases, achieving notable outcomes such as full acquittals in difficult trials.
In real estate, CHP Law is known for handling sophisticated transactions involving state land and high-value residential and commercial properties. The firm has managed complex lease structures for government-linked entities like the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, including ground-breaking arrangements for airport land leases involving strata lots. They also work on high-value residential transactions involving stamp duty optimisation and creative property structuring, reflecting an ability to navigate both regulatory constraints and client commercial objectives effectively.
The firm is helmed by managing partner Christopher Huang and includes seven senior lawyers, including funds and FSR specialist Ian Phung, IP and intangible assets expert Dixon Soh, real estate specialist Tan Ching Chern, dispute resolution partner Danny Quah and private client expert Kannan Nadarajan.
Client feedback
"The lawyers are proactive, provide professional opinions and advice, and put in extra time to get the work done." – Corporate and M&A
"Great attention to detail and client management." – Corporate and M&A
"Lawyers are meticulous and provide strategic solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Good size. Good lawyers." – Dispute resolution
"Advice provided is very commercial and the director in charge is very responsive." – Dispute resolution
"Clear communications, prompt and reasonably quick turnaround." – Dispute resolution
"They have been positive and patient in handling all our queries and requests." – Investment funds
"Responsive and have expertise in funds." – Investment funds
"Perfect guidance and support, fast responses and friendly." – Investment funds
"Demonstrate expertise and competency, integrity and ethics and a client-centered approach. They promptly address client enquiries, keeping them informed and accessible when needed." – Investment funds
"Excellent client servicing." – Intellectual property
"Flexible but professional. Strong industry knowledge." – Private equity
"They explain the rationale, took many aspects into account to interpret the law specific to our case. They understood the limits of our processes and how to structure our case to show we acted in good faith." – Regulatory
"Partners are very accessible and available to provide advice. Advice is practical and aligned with the mandate. Flexible pricing for smaller firms." – Regulatory
"CHP Law stands out for its deep expertise in financial regulation and its strong grasp of emerging sectors like digital assets. The team is responsive, pragmatic, and solutions-oriented – able to simplify complex legal issues while remaining precise and thorough. They consistently deliver high-quality advice with a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, making them a trusted legal partner for any capital markets or Web3-related matters." – Regulatory
Raj Mannar
"Gives professional and sound advice and is responsive."
"Great attention to detail and keeps the client informed and made to feel important."
Ian Phung
"Extremely knowledgeable in his field of expertise. He is always ready to provide advice and is easy to talk to."
"Provides practical advice which addresses the problem at hand."
"He gave us very clear guidance with his professionalism, and he is also very kind and nice."
"He is patient."
"He is responsive and has a strong sense of responsibility."
"Great problem-solving ability and responsiveness."
"Ian is highly professional, responsive, and pragmatic. He goes beyond standard legal support by clearly outlining both the regulatory expectations and the practical boundaries. His advice is always well-considered and precise – often recommending a stricter approach to ensure we stay fully compliant and avoid any future issues. A true partner we can rely on."
Danny Quah
"He will listen and ask thorough questions."
"Strategic and empathetic."
"Sharp analysis, good strategizing, valuable advice, clear communication and prompt turnaround."
"Danny is very responsive and offers creative yet commercial solutions."
Dixon Soh
"Excellent client servicing and explains matters succinctly and clearly."
Work highlights
Advised a Singapore capital markets services licensee on its financial resources requirement for meeting regulatory capital requirements.
Assisted a local digital trading company in obtaining a payment services licence as a major payment institution for digital payment token services.
Counselled a large tech company on regulatory issues surrounding the launch of digital tokens, analysing potential intersections with competition law, consumer protection and data privacy.
Founded in 2017 by senior counsel Lok Vi Ming, LVM Law Chambers is a respected, mid-sized disputes boutique offering a comprehensive range of dispute resolution services spanning commercial litigation, construction, insurance, media and telecommunications, tax, mediation, real estate, regulatory and white-collar matters. 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 and has been quite active for these clients in the construction, technology, infrastructure and PE sectors. The firm added shipping capabilities to its growing array of specialisms, with the hiring of former Incisive Law director, Mohd Haireez. Managing director Lok Vi Ming leads an experienced team that includes construction specialists Joseph Lee and Waltan Pak. The team also welcomed the arrival of director Jean Chan from the Singapore High Court to bolster its white-collar crime and regulatory offering. Construction expert Joanna Seetoh departed last year for Harry Elias Partnership.
Client feedback
“LVM is very proactive in providing practical solutions to the client. LVM does not only advise on the legal aspect, but they really help the client to choose the 'best' route to achieve the best outcome possible, given the commercial circumstances.” – Dispute resolution
“They have lawyers who are intelligent, attentive and know their specialised areas well.” – Dispute resolution
“The firm is able to distil complex issues to distinct bitesize chunks and tackle each of these pointedly. They have the grit and soft skills to disarm the defendants with finesse. They deliver par excellence.” – Dispute resolution
“The lawyers are professional and knowledgeable on the case; they were able to find the supporting evidence in the court documents to defend my case.” – Private client
“Responsive and experienced team, able to pull in senior counsel when required.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Honest, quick and frank.” – Shipping
“Quick response and practical advice.” – Shipping
Mohd Haireez
“Able to provide quick and concise advice.”
“Solid legal and sector knowledge, attentive and meticulous.”
“Hard-working, efficient, brilliant and affable.”
Jonathan Muk
“Jonathan has very good legal knowledge as well as industry knowledge, to provide the client with practical advice. He is also very responsive to clients’ queries.”
“Jonathan not only listens, he does his homework and always researches thoroughly. He is always accessible and he responds to queries promptly. He keeps tabs on costs and timeline diligently.”
Huey Hien Ooi
“Responsive, detailed and diligent.”
Michelle Yeo
“She is hardworking and well-versed in knowledge on my case.”
Work highlights
Acted for an individual client in relation to charges of corruption and falsification of documents made against him.
Representing the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore to conduct private prosecutions against construction companies which caused damage to internet cables during construction.
Assisted personnel of a public listed education entity in an investigation by the authorities and potential prosecution in relation to a suspected breach imposed by the Securities and Futures Act.
Meritus Law is a dynamic law firm specialising in complex dispute resolution, restructuring and regulatory matters across multiple industry sectors. The firm's distinction is in its ability to handle high-stakes, cross-jurisdictional commercial disputes involving significant financial interests. Its portfolio includes acting for clients in disputes ranging from technology startup conflicts to family business disagreements, and from commodity trading issues to corporate governance challenges.
The firm has shown particular expertise in several key areas: technology sector disputes, corporate governance challenges, cross-border commercial litigation, and restructuring and insolvency matters. They have successfully handled cases involving unicorn startups, listed companies, and family-owned businesses, often resolving complex legal issues that involve intricate financial and corporate dynamics.
The firm’s clients consist of local and international corporations, state-owned enterprises and high-net-worth individuals. The lawyers are experienced in a wide spectrum of contentious matters before the Singapore courts, as well as arbitration proceedings before the Singapore International Arbitration Centre. The firm frequently receives briefs from international law firms and picks up conflict work from larger domestic players. Managing director Alfred Lim spearheads the leadership that includes disputes-focused directors Jaime Lye and Ushan Premaratne, and corporate specialist Amos Tan.
Work highlights
Represented a local building contractor against charges under the Workplace Safety and Health Act, successfully persuading prosecutors to modify the original charge by demonstrating the company's limited control over subcontractor employees and providing sufficient safety information.
Defending a Singaporean design and construction company and its director from complex workplace safety charges arising from a fatal construction accident, challenging the legal principles of employer liability and exploring statutory defences in a case involving a collapsed balcony and multiple professional misconduct investigations.
Aquinas Law Alliance is recognized for its expertise in corporate law, capital markets, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and dispute resolution. The firm has built a solid reputation by providing tailored legal solutions across various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and construction. Its robust corporate finance practice covers a wide range of capital markets work, making it highly active in primary listings, de-listings, privatisations, rights issues, bond issuances and secondary offerings.
The team is skilled in navigating the intricacies of Singapore’s regulatory landscape, making it a go-to advisor for companies looking to raise capital or comply with stringent listing requirements. The firm is also noted for its experience with transfer listings, which offers an alternative route for companies to enter the public market without the traditional IPO process.
The M&A practice is another cornerstone of the firm, led by joint managing partners Kok Meng Lim and Aloysius Wee. Lim specializes in corporate finance and securities, while Wee brings extensive knowledge in corporate governance and strategic transactions. Together, they have successfully guided numerous clients through significant acquisitions, restructurings, and joint ventures.
The firm's success is underscored by its impressive client roster, which includes major players in the healthcare, technology, and consumer goods sectors. Recent highlights include advising Camsing Healthcare on a significant investment deal and assisting T T J Holdings with the sale of its green energy business. The firm has also played a pivotal role in facilitating capital raises for various companies, demonstrating its strong capabilities in financial transactions.
Aquinas Law Alliance is not just focused on traditional legal services; it is actively expanding its influence in cross-border transactions, particularly involving Chinese clients. The firm has established strong ties with companies in China, helping them navigate the complexities of the Singapore market. This strategic focus on China-related transactions positions the firm uniquely in the region.
Recently, the firm added corporate and M&A specialist Nichola Koh. Her joining reflects the firm’s commitment to strengthening its practice areas and meeting the growing demands of clients in an evolving market. Additionally, the firm is actively involved in structuring various investment transactions, ensuring clients can capitalize on new opportunities.
Work highlights
Advised Boldtek Holdings on its restructuring process, facilitating negotiations with creditors and navigating judicial management to stabilize operations amid financial difficulties.
Acted for Nutryfarm International on its judicial management proceedings, successfully negotiating a restructuring plan that included super-priority financing to support ongoing operations.
Represented Tay Paper Recycling in its judicial management, providing strategic guidance to navigate complex creditor relationships and restructuring requirements in a challenging market environment.
Ascendant Legal has been in a formal law alliance with Norton Rose Fulbright since 2018. The disputes offering has long been a core area of strength for the firm, notably acting in all manners of corporate and commercial, restructuring and insolvency, regulatory compliance, shipping, competition and IP disputes. Due to its sprawling and deep regional and global network, the firm is active in numerous sophisticated and complex cross-border litigation and arbitration mandates. Its enviable client list spans household name multinationals, listed companies and Asian giants.
The 12 fee-earner team is led by managing partner Chew Kei-Jin. Another key name to note is R&I head, Meiyen Tan.
Work highlights
Defended a professional services firm in the Singapore High Court against claims of misrepresentation, successfully obtaining a judgment that included an exceptional award of indemnity costs.
Assisting a commodities trader in arbitral proceedings concerning contamination issues.
“* Effective 31 July 2025, BlackOak has ceased to provide legal services and the entire team joined Bird & Bird ATMD as of 1 August 2025 *”
Incorporated in 2016, BlackOak is a dedicated distress and special situations firm active in all fields of the corporate and insolvency process. Peers consistently nod to its expertise and unique offering in the market, and the firm remains solidified in the top tier again this year for R&I. BlackOak is often instructed in various cross-border restructurings by, among others, the debtors, creditors, and white knight investors. Its size and structure allow it greater independence compared to larger law firms, and keeps the firm nimble for non-domestic mandates. Under the leadership of Ashok Kumar and Darius Tay, the firm handles both contentious and non-contentious aspects of the practice. It is also particularly active in bond restructurings. The team has been growing its cross-border capabilities and building up its global networks, particularly in southeast Asia.
Client feedback
“Experienced, knowledgeable, commercial and incredibly hard-working.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Intellectual, commercial, experienced and client-driven.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Prompt responses and practical advice.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Proactive, strong technical skills and good communication skills.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Approachable, friendly, proactive, quick response time and flexible.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“They are as good if not better than any of the Big Four law firm restructuring teams. They are dedicated with heavy partner involvement, and strategic advice 24 hours a day.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“They are good at strategising and taking charge of matters.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Great technical insolvency expertise, efficient and works well with international counsel.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Competent team with innovative ideas on both the commercial and legal front. Willing and able to walk into unchartered territory. For example, they helped obtain the first ever recognition of a Malaysian scheme in Singapore.” – Restructuring and insolvency
Ashok Kumar
“Friendly and knowledgeable.”
Darius Tay
“Client-focused, very experienced and incredibly bright!”
“Incredibly hard-working, dedicated to getting the client what they need and super-fast and flexible. He is the best!”
“A market leader. A perfect blend of commercial knowledge, cutting-edge legal knowledge and with the advocacy in the courtroom.”
“He is good at taking charge of a matter and leading it.”
“Darius Tay is a great lawyer, technically astute and a leader amongst his peers.”
“Undoubtedly a rising star in the Singapore legal fraternity. Able to think on his feet, provide innovative solutions and has an impressively short turnaround time.”
Work highlights
Advised FTX on its Chapter 11 proceedings in connection with Singapore.
Acting for No Va Land Investment Group on the restructuring of its bonds in Singapore by way of a pre-packaged scheme of arrangement.
Represented Century Sunshine Group Holdings, its group of companies and the joint provisional liquidators on its provisional liquidation.
Key clients
Eqonex, KordaMentha, Nam Cheong, WeWork
CHP Law is a full-service firm with ties to CNPLaw, its senior consultant being Colin Ng. The team has particular strengths in regulatory compliance, investment funds, intellectual property, real estate and dispute resolution. Its team is highly experienced in handling complex, high-stakes matters that often cut across multiple jurisdictions and legal disciplines. The firm boasts a solid track record at handling multi-jurisdictional, complex legal challenges that often sit at the intersection of technology, finance and regulatory compliance. The TMT group has demonstrated its know-how in emerging sectors like Web3, digital assets and innovative financial structures.
One of the firm’s standout capabilities is its deep expertise in regulatory law, especially within the financial services sector. The team has successfully guided clients through intricate licensing processes, capital requirements, and ongoing regulatory challenges. The firm has a proven track record of advising capital markets licensees, cryptocurrency players, and fund managers, demonstrating a thorough understanding of Singapore’s regulatory landscape as well as foreign jurisdictions like the Cayman Islands.
The investment funds practice is another notably robust group that routinely works with clients on fund formation and structuring, including ventures into variable capital companies (VCCs) and segregated portfolio companies. The firm supports venture capital funds investing in technology startups in Asia and has experience working with family offices on bespoke fund structures tailored to high-net-worth individuals.
The firm’s IP practice is unique, with a strategic approach to IP beyond traditional patent and trademark registrations. The firm offers IP strategy consulting that helps clients leverage their intangible assets to transform and diversify their business models. The IP team has worked with major corporations in the energy and technology sectors to devise IP strategies that support structural shifts away from traditional operations. This forward-thinking approach positions them uniquely as advisers who connect legal IP considerations to broader business goals, including brand valuation and innovation ecosystems.
Dispute resolution is another core strength, with the team adept at managing a broad spectrum of contentious matters, from high-profile corporate disputes to cross-border insolvency cases. CHP Law has handled landmark litigation involving cryptocurrency insolvencies, hostile takeovers of hospitality assets, shareholder oppression claims, and professional negligence.
Their clients range from founders of distressed tech companies to family offices and multinational corporations. The firm is also trusted for representing individuals in complex commercial disputes and criminal cases, achieving notable outcomes such as full acquittals in difficult trials.
In real estate, CHP Law is known for handling sophisticated transactions involving state land and high-value residential and commercial properties. The firm has managed complex lease structures for government-linked entities like the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, including ground-breaking arrangements for airport land leases involving strata lots. They also work on high-value residential transactions involving stamp duty optimisation and creative property structuring, reflecting an ability to navigate both regulatory constraints and client commercial objectives effectively.
The firm is helmed by managing partner Christopher Huang and includes seven senior lawyers, including funds and FSR specialist Ian Phung, IP and intangible assets expert Dixon Soh, real estate specialist Tan Ching Chern, dispute resolution partner Danny Quah and private client expert Kannan Nadarajan.
Client feedback
"The lawyers are proactive, provide professional opinions and advice, and put in extra time to get the work done." – Corporate and M&A
"Great attention to detail and client management." – Corporate and M&A
"Lawyers are meticulous and provide strategic solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Good size. Good lawyers." – Dispute resolution
"Advice provided is very commercial and the director in charge is very responsive." – Dispute resolution
"Clear communications, prompt and reasonably quick turnaround." – Dispute resolution
"They have been positive and patient in handling all our queries and requests." – Investment funds
"Responsive and have expertise in funds." – Investment funds
"Perfect guidance and support, fast responses and friendly." – Investment funds
"Demonstrate expertise and competency, integrity and ethics and a client-centered approach. They promptly address client enquiries, keeping them informed and accessible when needed." – Investment funds
"Excellent client servicing." – Intellectual property
"Flexible but professional. Strong industry knowledge." – Private equity
"They explain the rationale, took many aspects into account to interpret the law specific to our case. They understood the limits of our processes and how to structure our case to show we acted in good faith." – Regulatory
"Partners are very accessible and available to provide advice. Advice is practical and aligned with the mandate. Flexible pricing for smaller firms." – Regulatory
"CHP Law stands out for its deep expertise in financial regulation and its strong grasp of emerging sectors like digital assets. The team is responsive, pragmatic, and solutions-oriented – able to simplify complex legal issues while remaining precise and thorough. They consistently deliver high-quality advice with a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, making them a trusted legal partner for any capital markets or Web3-related matters." – Regulatory
Raj Mannar
"Gives professional and sound advice and is responsive."
"Great attention to detail and keeps the client informed and made to feel important."
Ian Phung
"Extremely knowledgeable in his field of expertise. He is always ready to provide advice and is easy to talk to."
"Provides practical advice which addresses the problem at hand."
"He gave us very clear guidance with his professionalism, and he is also very kind and nice."
"He is patient."
"He is responsive and has a strong sense of responsibility."
"Great problem-solving ability and responsiveness."
"Ian is highly professional, responsive, and pragmatic. He goes beyond standard legal support by clearly outlining both the regulatory expectations and the practical boundaries. His advice is always well-considered and precise – often recommending a stricter approach to ensure we stay fully compliant and avoid any future issues. A true partner we can rely on."
Danny Quah
"He will listen and ask thorough questions."
"Strategic and empathetic."
"Sharp analysis, good strategizing, valuable advice, clear communication and prompt turnaround."
"Danny is very responsive and offers creative yet commercial solutions."
Dixon Soh
"Excellent client servicing and explains matters succinctly and clearly."
Work highlights
Acted for a domestic engineering group as a top-10 creditor in parallel scheme of arrangement proceedings for the Davex Group, an indirect subsidiary of Malaysia's Sovereign Wealth Fund. The matter was notable for being one of the first parallel schemes of arrangements filed simultaneously in Singapore and Malaysia.
Best known for being a heavyweight firm specialised in construction, Eldan Law holds strong in the top tier for its dedicated full-scope practice. It is the home of respected construction law veteran Lawrence Tan. Apart from the market-acknowledged construction, projects and infrastructure strengths, the firm’s restructuring and insolvency offering, led by director Imran Rahim, has been winning more mandates. The firm works closely with insolvency practitioners from KordaMentha, Quantuma, Argile Partners, Grant Thornton, and AAG Corporate Advisory, including their practitioners outside of Singapore. Other key directors to note are Daniel Koh, Gerry Gan, Lim Yong and Wendy Low.
All construction matters handled over the research period are confidential.
Work highlights
Represented the joint official liquidators in the contentious liquidation of MTBL Global Fund.
Acted for Hytech Builders on its restructuring through a scheme of arrangement.
Focus Law Asia is a prominent boutique law firm based in Singapore, renowned for its specialized legal services in shipping, restructuring, and insolvency. It also has a rapidly growing family and matrimonial practice. The team counts major world-class ship owners such as Maersk, Torm and Ardmore Shipping as loyal clients, as well as leading marine insurers like Skuld, UK P&I Club and Japan P&I Club.
One of the firm’s primary strengths lies in its shipping practice. Focus Law Asia is trusted by world-class ship owners such as Maersk and TORM to manage their maritime disputes. The firm’s expertise extends to advising on charter party agreements and bills of lading, making it a go-to for clients requiring guidance in maritime law.
The firm is a member of the One Asia Lawyers network and it boasts Japan and Korea desks with Japanese and Korean lawyers. It uniquely is focused on developing a North Asian disputes practice. The firm recently enhanced its capabilities by hiring a Japanese-qualified shipping lawyer. This strategic addition allows the firm to better serve Japanese shipping companies and offers clients legal advice in their native language.
In the restructuring and insolvency arena, the firm has gained recognition for its adept handling of high-stakes cases. The firm has been involved in significant matters, such as acting for the liquidators of Hin Leong Trading, one of Singapore’s largest oil trading houses, during its compulsory liquidation. This case has been particularly noteworthy, with claims exceeding $4.5 billion. The liquidators rely on the team's expertise to navigate complex financial issues and address numerous creditor claims. This capability is bolstered by the firm’s low-cost structure, allowing it to provide top-tier legal services at competitive rates.
In addition to its shipping and restructuring practices, the firm also offers services in other areas, including commercial litigation, international arbitration, and commodities trading. The firm’s versatility across various legal disciplines allows it to assist clients in navigating a wide range of legal challenges.
Managing director Shem Khoo and directors Mark Tan and Ker Sheon Lim are the key contacts. The firm's approach combines the depth of knowledge typical of larger firms with the personalized service characteristic of boutique practices. This model enables Focus Law Asia to maintain a lean operational structure while actively engaging its senior partners in day-to-day case management.
Client feedback
"They are an experienced and reasonable team that aims to secure just and practical outcomes." – Dispute resolution
"I find that Focus Law is a firm practising professionally. They are not unduly adversarial. They are fair where concessions must be made, and do not waste time writing antagonistic correspondence to fellow practitioners. I found that their work was of good quality as well. Their submissions are clear and easy to read. It was a pleasure to go to trial with them." – Oil and gas
“They detailed in their work, ensuring that every aspect is thoroughly addressed. They exhibit precision in their tasks, which contributes to the quality of their output. Additionally, they are known for providing intelligent and practical solutions to challenges, making them an asset in any situation." – Shipping
Mimi Ahn
"Pleasure to work with, genuine and generous."
Veronica Teo
"Veronica is pragmatic and laser-focused on proposing reasonable and sensible solutions."
Shem Khoo
"He is efficient, practical and intelligent."
"I really like Shem. He is a consummate professional. I found that I could easily pick up the phone to resolve matters with Shem, and trust that he will honour his word on what had been discussed. In a world where trust is a rare commodity, Shem stands out as a practitioner who says what he means and means what he says."
"Shem is a practical lawyer who is easy to work with."
Work highlights
Acted for and advising the liquidators of Hin Leong in various shipping and trade financing issues arising out of the compulsory liquidation of Hin Leong, including advising on proofs of debts lodged by creditors.
Sought the court’s directions on creditors’ facility letters regarding whether the documents presented to creditors for payment amount to a bill of sale that must be registered as a charge.
Represented the liquidators in an application to the High Court regarding the ownership of oil in storage tanks at Universal Terminal, with multiple parties laying claim to the assets.
JTJB, or Joseph Tan Jude Benny, has one of the most experienced and dedicated admiralty and maritime practices in Singapore. The firm handles complex high-profile matters in both wet and dry shipping, including trade finance, industry M&As and investments, cargo disputes, charterparties and bills of lading disputes, marine casualties, shipbuilding, marine insurance and ship finance. The firm also handles a fair number of restructuring and insolvency matters. Murali Pany, John Sze and Danny Chua are key members of the firm. Other names to note are disputes specialist Rafizah Gaffoor and Jolene Tan.
Client feedback
"They are fast and efficient. They’re able to provide sound advice on the action to take against those who contested our claims." – Banking and finance
"A dynamic firm with creative strategies that punches above its weight. Although nimble in size, it has expertise across all areas of its practice." – Shipping
"Joseph Tan Jude Benny has always provided advice quickly with good solutions to protect and benefit the client" – Shipping
Rafizah Gaffoor
"She is knowledgeable, helpful and professional. She is able to advise on the appropriate action to tackle problems. She works 24/7."
John Sze
"Hardworking, thinks outside the box and clever."
"John is very knowledgeable in the shipping area, especially in the arbitration process in Singapore."
Work highlights
Acted for AmBank as the lead creditor in the insolvency of Falcon Energy Group.
Advised Shanghai Pudong Development Bank in a liquidation case involving Kylen Resources.
Meritus Law is a dynamic law firm specialising in complex dispute resolution, restructuring and regulatory matters across multiple industry sectors. The firm's distinction is in its ability to handle high-stakes, cross-jurisdictional commercial disputes involving significant financial interests. Its portfolio includes acting for clients in disputes ranging from technology startup conflicts to family business disagreements, and from commodity trading issues to corporate governance challenges.
The firm has shown particular expertise in several key areas: technology sector disputes, corporate governance challenges, cross-border commercial litigation, and restructuring and insolvency matters. They have successfully handled cases involving unicorn startups, listed companies, and family-owned businesses, often resolving complex legal issues that involve intricate financial and corporate dynamics.
The firm’s clients consist of local and international corporations, state-owned enterprises and high-net-worth individuals. The lawyers are experienced in a wide spectrum of contentious matters before the Singapore courts, as well as arbitration proceedings before the Singapore International Arbitration Centre. The firm frequently receives briefs from international law firms and picks up conflict work from larger domestic players. Managing director Alfred Lim spearheads the leadership that includes disputes-focused directors Jaime Lye and Ushan Premaratne, and corporate specialist Amos Tan.
Work highlights
Represented an individual creditor in the USP Group judicial management case to challenge the judicial managers' conduct during a creditors' meeting, successfully obtaining court relief that discounted votes from related parties and invalidated a key resolution involving a proposed investor's restructuring plan.
Defended a domestic investment company against a loan repayment claim, raising interesting legal questions about loan agreement interpretation, potential penalty clauses, and estoppel principles in financial disputes.
Acted for an individual in a groundbreaking judicial management case, which is the first instance where a court discounted votes in a creditors' meeting and provided relief under the Insolvency, Restructuring and Dissolution Act, setting potentially significant precedents for creditor protection.
Oon & Bazul, Singapore’s largest conflict-free law firm, is best known for its contentious practices, notably shipping, and restructuring and insolvency. Its corporate M&A practice has been making strong headway in the past few years and is enjoying growing market prominence for its visibility on domestic and cross-border transactions. 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. On the shipping side, the firm is noted for its multi-jurisdictional expertise across the entire spectrum of general dry shipping, casualty and wet work, arrests and security-taking, ship finance, trade and marine insurance, and in the highly specialised area of mis-delivery claims, and it 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 partners: shipping-focused Thian Seng Oon, head of international arbitration Suresh Divyanathan, head of international arbitration Elan Krishna, head of shipping Prakaash Silvam, and insolvency head Keith Han. The corporate division is headed by Yi Wayn Ng.
Work highlights
Represented a secured creditor of Hin Leong Trading in interpleader proceedings related to oil cargo valued at approximately $300 million, involving multiple parties and judicial managers.
Established over 30 years ago, PK Wong & Nair is known for its expertise in dispute resolution, restructuring and insolvency, and corporate and commercial law. The team has a wealth of experience in a broad range of commercial disputes arising out of breaches of securities regulations, commodity trading disputes, insolvency, employment and contractual disputes, and estate claims.
The firm is particularly well-regarded for its expertise in contentious matters, with a team that has represented clients in significant cases before Singapore's highest courts. Notable achievements include successfully defending multinational corporations and individuals in high-profile litigation and arbitration cases. The firm has also played a crucial role in various insolvency matters, acting for liquidators and creditors in complex cross-border situations.
Key individuals at the firm include co-managing director and seasoned disputes specialist Suresh Nair, and directors Andrew Ang, Bryan Tan, Basil Ong, Jennifer Chih and Jacinda Wong. Co-managing director Mark Wong heads up the commercial and corporate division.
At the beginning of 2023, PK Wong & Nair entered into a joint law venture with international firm Mayer Brown. This entity can provide clients with integrated and seamless advice on international and Singapore law. Local litigation is provided through PK Wong & Nair.
The firm offers unique capabilities in the technology sector, particularly regarding cryptocurrency and digital asset disputes. Its lawyers have acted for clients in significant arbitration cases related to cryptocurrency trading firms, reflecting the growing importance of this sector in Singapore's legal landscape.
Client feedback
"Great listening to the issues. Solid legal advice and experience in providing sound solutions." – Dispute resolution
"Great insights into customer contracts and other company-related contracts." – Infrastructure
"Provides quick responses to difficult situations." – Real estate
"They are able to highlight and concisely summarise key issues to allow for effective negotiations between deal principals. This is key especially when timelines are tight. They are also good at scaling up and down their resources to support assignments." – Real estate
Suresh Nair
"Great personality, approachable, a good listener, and he delivers professional advice."
Marianne Yeo
"Prompt responses, in-depth knowledge and advice."
"She's great at highlighting and advising on key issues to facilitate negotiations, is responsive, detailed and knowledgeable."
Work highlights
Advised Antanium Resources on the restructuring of its debts.
Acted for the liquidator in a complex multi-jurisdictional liquidation case involving significant financial stakes.
Advised the liquidator of a domestic exhibition and trade business on day-to-day issues arising from the liquidation process.
Prolegis is the Singapore arm of Herbert Smith Freehills. Its litigation and insolvency departments were launched in May 2023 with the arrival of veteran practitioners from Morgan Lewis Stamford. The restructuring and insolvency team focuses on cross-border restructuring and contentious insolvency. It also advises liquidators and debtors in Thailand, Indonesia, and the BVI and Cayman Islands. The firm also has a historical track record of corporate and transactional capabilities.
The team is helmed by managing director Daniel Chia, deputy head of litigation Yanguang Ker and head of restructuring and insolvency Jonathan Tang. All three joined in the spring of 2023 from Morgan Lewis Stamford.
Client feedback
“I appreciate their approachability. They’ve got a good reputation in the crypto space.” – Restructuring and insolvency
Jonathan Tang
“Very approachable and willing to assist.”
Work highlights
Acting for Zipmex in its restructuring proceedings in the Singapore High Court. This matter was the first successful crypto-related restructuring sanctioned in Asia, possibly worldwide.
Representing Genesis Global Capital groups in Singapore recognition proceedings and Babel Group's restructuring proceedings.
Acting for four individual defendants in clawback proceedings filed by the administrators of FTX's Chapter 11 proceedings.
With eight fee-earners, RevLaw focuses on dispute resolution with a particular expertise in restructuring and insolvency. It has also been active in contentious employment matters, as well as general commercial litigation and arbitration work. The firm comprises experienced litigators who have handled disputes before all levels of Singapore courts and international arbitral tribunals. The firm's expertise spans a range of sectors including banking, finance, oil and gas, and real estate. It has a broad spectrum of clients across various industries including banks, insurers, private-equity funds, property developers, hotel owners and insolvency practitioners. Managing director Sui Tong Chua and director Yik Wee Liew are key contacts.
Client feedback
"Our experience with the firm as a whole has been positive. Rev Law is flexible in its fees and has a good reputation, along with relevant expertise in restructuring and insolvency. Additionally, they are dedicated and knowledgeable in real estate." – Real estate
Sui Tong Chua
"He consistently provides effective solutions to the issues we encounter in engagements. He is prompt in responding to matters and always acts professionally and ethically."
Yik Wee Liew
"He is attentive and careful."
Work highlights
Advised the liquidators of a local golf and country club in pursuing $130 million in claims against the company's controlling shareholders.
Represented creditors in the complex debt restructuring of a Singapore-listed China-focused real-estate trust.
Shook Lin & Bok works with an impressive roster of clients, including major banks, multinational corporations and private-equity investors, on large transactions locally and across the region. The firm is highly active in banking and finance, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, and restructuring and insolvency. It is also skilled in advising on real-estate finance, particularly on the lender side. The market-leading banking practice boasts 26 dedicated lawyers, including 13 partners that each specialise in a different area of banking and jurisdictions. Key lawyers include Kai Zee Liew for banking and finance, Marilyn See for capital markets, David Chong for corporate and M&A, Jevon Louis for IP, and Sarjit Singh Gill and David Chan for dispute resolution and insolvency.
Work highlights
Advising the judicial managers of the Panoil group of companies, which are undergoing judicial management in the shipping industry. This complex case involves potential claims to set aside various vessel transfers made under allegations of fraud against creditors.
Tan Kok Quan Partnership provides legal services across a broad spectrum of industry sectors, with particular recognition for its work in dispute resolution, and restructuring and insolvency. In the past 12 months, the team has handled matters across a spectrum of industries with a portfolio value of more than $1 billion. The firm has a distinguished record of handling litigation in the banking and financial services, energy, real estate and technology sectors. Senior counsel Marina Chin and Eddee Ng are key partners for dispute resolution, while senior partner Paul Seah is a key figure for restructuring and insolvency.
Client feedback
“Very responsive, clear in their advice, pragmatic and commercial.” – Dispute resolution
“Professional and yet commercial.” – Energy
“Responsive, proactive, technically strong and good business acumen.” – Restructuring and insolvency
Marina Chin
“Extremely responsive, commercial, approachable, knowledgeable and with a strategic mindset. She is an accomplished lawyer as well as extremely personable, from a human interaction perspective.”
Keith Tnee
“Approachable and quick to respond.”
Paul Seah
“Good business acumen and a good communicator.”
Work highlights
Advised Warehouse Logistics Net Asia on its restructuring.
Acting in the restructuring of the Koon group of companies, one of the leading infrastructure and civil engineering groups in the region, involving, among other things, two schemes of arrangement that have since been put in place. The total debt involved is at least S$77.8 million ($57.3 million) and more than 400 creditors.
TSMP Law Corporation is a prestigious, mid-sized law firm renowned for its expertise in dispute resolution, corporate law, and private client services. Recognized for its strategic and innovative approach, the firm effectively handles complex legal issues for a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations, local businesses, and high-net-worth individuals. The firm not only acts for various major corporations and financial institutions but also is frequently sought out by different regulatory bodies.
A key strength of TSMP lies in its dispute resolution capabilities, particularly in litigation and arbitration. The dispute resolution practice proudly states that it takes on difficult cases, ones that test, shape or advance the law. The disputes team covers the full gamut of litigation and arbitration, notably complex commercial and corporate litigation with a focus on boardroom, shareholder and investment disputes. There is additionally a growing practice specialising in the crypto-space, working with clients across the ecosystem from investors to exchanges.
The firm’s lawyers are adept at managing intricate disputes, whether in court or through alternative mechanisms, and are frequently engaged in high-stakes commercial cases. On the corporate front, the firm excels in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, corporate governance, and compliance, offering clients comprehensive legal advice tailored to their business objectives. TSMP is also known for its private client practice, where it provides bespoke solutions for wealth management, estate planning, and family business succession.
TSMP serves a wide range of industries, including banking and finance, construction and engineering, employment, corporate real estate, and private wealth. It is also expanding its focus into emerging sectors such as technology and fintech, positioning itself to address the legal challenges of digital transformation.
The TSMP team includes some of Singapore’s most respected legal professionals, including two senior counsels. Joint managing partner Thio Shen Yi SC is a leading figure in litigation and arbitration, known for his ability to navigate complex disputes. Joint managing partner Stefanie Yuen Thio is an illustrious corporate law specialist with a focus on capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance.
Other notable figures include Jeffrey Chan SC, disputes specialist Felicia Tan, who has contributed to high-profile discussions such as the Bukom Island shutdown, and employment specialist Ian Lim, who is recognized for his insights into workplace injury scams. The firm’s strength is further bolstered by experienced partners like construction specialists Derek Loh and Melvin Chan, and Jennifer Chia and Leon Lim in corporate law, as well as consultants like Professors Tang Hang Wu and Hans Tjio, who bring academic depth to their respective specialties.
Work highlights
Acted for the funder in the US$500 million debt restructuring of Hontop Energy, which is under judicial management.
Represented UK-based company in the US$250 million insolvency proceedings of Hin Leong Trading.
Advised creditors on the legal intricacies surrounding the liquidation process of Somap International.
Focus Law Asia is a prominent boutique law firm based in Singapore, renowned for its specialized legal services in shipping, restructuring, and insolvency. It also has a rapidly growing family and matrimonial practice. The team counts major world-class ship owners such as Maersk, Torm and Ardmore Shipping as loyal clients, as well as leading marine insurers like Skuld, UK P&I Club and Japan P&I Club.
One of the firm’s primary strengths lies in its shipping practice. Focus Law Asia is trusted by world-class ship owners such as Maersk and TORM to manage their maritime disputes. The firm’s expertise extends to advising on charter party agreements and bills of lading, making it a go-to for clients requiring guidance in maritime law.
The firm is a member of the One Asia Lawyers network and it boasts Japan and Korea desks with Japanese and Korean lawyers. It uniquely is focused on developing a North Asian disputes practice. The firm recently enhanced its capabilities by hiring a Japanese-qualified shipping lawyer. This strategic addition allows the firm to better serve Japanese shipping companies and offers clients legal advice in their native language.
In the restructuring and insolvency arena, the firm has gained recognition for its adept handling of high-stakes cases. The firm has been involved in significant matters, such as acting for the liquidators of Hin Leong Trading, one of Singapore’s largest oil trading houses, during its compulsory liquidation. This case has been particularly noteworthy, with claims exceeding $4.5 billion. The liquidators rely on the team's expertise to navigate complex financial issues and address numerous creditor claims. This capability is bolstered by the firm’s low-cost structure, allowing it to provide top-tier legal services at competitive rates.
In addition to its shipping and restructuring practices, the firm also offers services in other areas, including commercial litigation, international arbitration, and commodities trading. The firm’s versatility across various legal disciplines allows it to assist clients in navigating a wide range of legal challenges.
Managing director Shem Khoo and directors Mark Tan and Ker Sheon Lim are the key contacts. The firm's approach combines the depth of knowledge typical of larger firms with the personalized service characteristic of boutique practices. This model enables Focus Law Asia to maintain a lean operational structure while actively engaging its senior partners in day-to-day case management.
Client feedback
"They are an experienced and reasonable team that aims to secure just and practical outcomes." – Dispute resolution
"I find that Focus Law is a firm practising professionally. They are not unduly adversarial. They are fair where concessions must be made, and do not waste time writing antagonistic correspondence to fellow practitioners. I found that their work was of good quality as well. Their submissions are clear and easy to read. It was a pleasure to go to trial with them." – Oil and gas
“They detailed in their work, ensuring that every aspect is thoroughly addressed. They exhibit precision in their tasks, which contributes to the quality of their output. Additionally, they are known for providing intelligent and practical solutions to challenges, making them an asset in any situation." – Shipping
Mimi Ahn
"Pleasure to work with, genuine and generous."
Veronica Teo
"Veronica is pragmatic and laser-focused on proposing reasonable and sensible solutions."
Shem Khoo
"He is efficient, practical and intelligent."
"I really like Shem. He is a consummate professional. I found that I could easily pick up the phone to resolve matters with Shem, and trust that he will honour his word on what had been discussed. In a world where trust is a rare commodity, Shem stands out as a practitioner who says what he means and means what he says."
"Shem is a practical lawyer who is easy to work with."
Work highlights
Acted for Maersk Tankers Singapore in a series of misdelivery claims involving substantial sums from financial institutions.
Advised a Swiss bank in proceedings against a Singapore-based jet fuel buyer and supplier for $19 million, arising from an alleged paper trader with no underlying cargo.
Acted for the liquidators of Hin Leong in various shipping and trade financing issues related to its compulsory liquidation.
PDLegal is a leading law firm with a strong track record in complex disputes, maritime and shipping matters, and high-stakes advisory work. The firm is particularly known for its expertise in international arbitration, commercial litigation, and regulatory issues. PDLegal's dispute resolution practice is spearheaded by managing partner Peter Doraisamy. He has acted in several high-profile cases, including advising the liquidator for a vessel owner in a high-value claim involving allegations of fraudulent bills of lading. The firm’s corporate and commercial practice is led by Gerard Quek, who has expertise in cross-border transactions and advisory work. The team’s client roster includes multinational corporations, financial institutions, and high-net-worth individuals.
Work highlights
Advised the owners of the vessel Ever Blink on the constitution of a limitation fund under Singapore's Merchant Shipping Act and the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims. As this followed a major spill incident in Singapore waters, the matter was significant as it marked the first time a Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage fund was set up in Singapore.
Shook Lin & Bok works with an impressive roster of clients, including major banks, multinational corporations and private-equity investors, on large transactions locally and across the region. The firm is highly active in banking and finance, corporate and M&A, dispute resolution, and restructuring and insolvency. It is also skilled in advising on real-estate finance, particularly on the lender side. The market-leading banking practice boasts 26 dedicated lawyers, including 13 partners that each specialise in a different area of banking and jurisdictions. Key lawyers include Kai Zee Liew for banking and finance, Marilyn See for capital markets, David Chong for corporate and M&A, Jevon Louis for IP, and Sarjit Singh Gill and David Chan for dispute resolution and insolvency.
Work highlights
Acted for a Singaporean bank regarding enforcement of its rights against ships and shipowners after Hin Leong Trading defaulted on loan facilities amounting to approximately $200 million. The case examines the implications of using letters of indemnity in lieu of bills of lading in trade finance.
Rajah & Tann is one of the most visible among Singapore’s ‘Big Four’ law firms in the southeast Asian market. It occupies the top tier across an array of practice areas and sectors, with well-established teams in both the transactional and contentious arena. The firm has outstanding experience in complex and high-value cross-border matters, closely working with its R&T Asia network with specialised industry expertise. The firm has a traditional strength in dispute resolution backed by the largest litigation practice in Singapore with seven senior counsels. Key names include Angela Lim for banking and finance, Kim Huat Chia for capital markets and corporate and M&A, Kala Anandarajah for competition, Francis Xavier and Andre Yeap for dispute resolution, Arnold Tan for investment funds, Patrick Ang and Eng Beng Lee for restructuring and insolvency, Vikna Rajah for tax and private client matters, and Rajesh Sreenivasan for technology and telecommunications.
Client feedback
"Deep expertise in banking and finance and has a network of law firms to support cross-border deals in a seamless manner." – Banking and finance
"The positive attribute that we most appreciate is the proactive attitude of the team. They help us navigate the regulations in Singapore. They are responsive and easy to work with." – Capital markets
"They demonstrate strong regulatory knowledge, provide clear and practical advice, and have a solid understanding of the fund management landscape in Singapore." – Investment funds
Jasmine Chew
"She is knowledgeable, capable and very professional. She has provided valuable opinions and is central to helping us navigate the regulatory landscape."
"Jasmine is responsive, detail-oriented, and provides clear and well-structured advice. She has a strong grasp of MAS regulations and offers practical guidance tailored to our business needs."
Xin Mei Lee
"Xin Mei is our go-to lawyer for highly structured and complex leveraged and acquisition financings. She is a high-calibre and top-tier legal talent with an extremely astute mind. She is always able to quickly grasp the nuances in highly complex transactions and is extremely knowledgeable in both legal and commercial issues. She is solution-oriented and is always able to structure bespoke and innovative solutions to meet the needs of her demanding clients. She is extremely dedicated, always responsive/accessible to clients and highly reliable – you can always count on her to deliver high quality work even under compressed deadlines. She is also highly personable, excellent at managing client relationships and connects well with clients. She demonstrates great leadership on projects and is an absolute bright spark amongst the banking and finance equity partners in Singapore."
Zixiang Sun
"Brings a standard of practice that is more often found in international law firms than in domestic law firms"
"Took the time to understand our commercial needs and has been on point in advocating for us ever since."
Cheryl Tan
"Cheryl is very responsive and reliable, and very pleasant to work with. She always responds promptly and consistently provides highly practical solutions. She is a highly trusted and valued advisor of the bank."
Work highlights
Successfully acted for a Singapore WTE plant in a property tax dispute with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore, resulting in significant savings exceeding S$280 million over 10 years.
OrionW is a specialist firm dedicated to technology, media and telecommunications and fintech matters. The firm’s key expertise lies in domestic and cross-border transactions, data protection, cybersecurity, blockchain, export control matters, regulatory compliance, licensing and platform developments. Moreover, the firm works with Fortune 500, FTSE 100 and other multinational companies as well as innovative startups in the financial services, logistics, healthcare, technology, sports and retail sectors. In the past year, the firm’s media practice grew significantly with the increased focus on regulatory issues involving the use of developing technologies like AI. The firm is the exclusive Singapore member of the PrivacyRules alliance, a global professional alliance of more than 70 data privacy experts in the legal and technology fields. Managing director Winnie Chang is the key contact.
Client feedback
“Approachable, cost-effective, expert and user-friendly.” – Intellectual property
“Responsive, knowledgeable and reasonable charges.” – Labour and employment
“The lawyers at OrionW are really domain experts on legal issues relating to technology. You know you will get good guidance in clear language a client can understand and apply.” – Privacy and data protection
“Provided efficient solutions to address various concerns under the migration and facilitated the moving procedure.” – Regulatory
Winnie Chang
“Approachable, expert, understands brief and pragmatic.”
“Responsive and knowledgeable.”
“Winnie is deeply knowledgeable on data privacy and technology-related matters. She is also extremely personable and a pleasure to deal with.”
“Understands the client's needs, provides services efficiently and is a real problems resolver.”
Work highlights
Advised a satellite services company in Asia on regulatory compliance and licensing issues.
Assisted a digital token exchange on various regulatory compliance and licensing matters in relation to its operation.
Advised a global commercial order management solutions provider for communications on a review of its master supply agreement.
A formidable market leader in the full gamut of corporate and finance matters, WongPartnership comprises over 300 lawyers in eight global cities. It offers extensive experience in handling high-stakes structured finance, M&A, funds, private equity, project finance and syndicated loans. The firm also has plentiful expertise on big-ticket domestic and cross-border disputes involving corporate, construction, insolvency and regulatory matters. Key lawyers include Susan Wong for banking and finance, Ameera Ashraf for competition, Andrew Ang and Wai King Ng for corporate and M&A and private equity, Alvin Yeo and Koh Swee Yen SC for dispute resolution, and Manoj Pillay Sandrasegara for restructuring and insolvency. In addition, Chung Nian Lam, Kah Keong Low, Jenny Tsin and Dorothy Marie Ng are regarded for their work in IP, investment funds, employment and real estate, respectively.
Client feedback
"Highly professional, deep and wide bench of dedicated talent with a strong commitment to deliver." – Banking and finance
"Very committed, responsive and highly professional across the team." – Real estate
"The team provides in-depth analysis of issues with practical solutions." – Real estate
Monica Yip
"She has a deep and strong knowledge of the sector and always goes the extra mile to help us resolve issues and ensure that her client's interests are met within the commercial environment. Meets tight timelines."
"She knows exactly what issues we are facing from first engagement and gives both in-depth and practical advice."
Work highlights
Represented a prominent international sports league in enforcing its intellectual property rights against retailers of illicit streaming devices in Singapore.
