Types of Civil Disputes I Handle

Contract Disputes

Most civil disputes involve a contract – whether written, oral, or implied. I advise on:

• Breach of contract – where one party has failed to perform their obligations
• Misrepresentation – where a party was induced into a contract by a false statement of fact
• Disputes over payment for goods or services
• Disputes over the proper interpretation of contract terms
• Wrongful termination of a contract and the legal consequences

Debt Recovery

If someone owes you money – under a loan, a service agreement, or an unpaid invoice – I help you recover it. The process typically begins with a Letter of Demand, followed by court proceedings if the debt remains unpaid.

Fraud and Misrepresentation

If you have suffered a financial loss because someone deceived you – in a business transaction, a property deal, or a personal arrangement – you may have a civil claim for fraud or misrepresentation. Available remedies include damages, rescission of the contract, and injunctions to freeze assets.

Property Disputes

Property disputes between co-owners, landlords and tenants, or neighbours can escalate quickly. I handle:

• Disputes between co-owners over the use or forced sale of jointly-owned property
• Landlord and tenant disputes – unpaid rent, security deposit disputes, wrongful termination of tenancy
• MCST disputes – service charge arrears, by-law enforcement, and strata title disputes in condominiums

Protection from Harassment (POHA)

Singapore’s Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) covers harassment, stalking, cyberbullying, and the publication of false statements of fact. I assist with Protection Order and Expedited Protection Order applications.

Before Going to Court – Your Options

Litigation is not always the fastest or most cost-effective path. I advise clients on the full range of dispute resolution options:

• Letter of Demand – a formal legal letter that often resolves disputes without court proceedings
• Negotiation – direct discussion between parties, often the quickest resolution
• Mediation – a neutral mediator facilitates a voluntary settlement; many courts now require parties to attempt mediation before proceeding to trial
• Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) – for claims up to $20,000 (or $30,000 by mutual agreement); designed for self-represented parties
• Magistrates Court / District Court / High Court – for higher-value or more complex claims; I represent you throughout

The Litigation Process in Singapore

1. Pre-action – Letter of Demand, evidence review, honest assessment of the strength of your claim
2. Commencement – filing an Originating Claim in the appropriate court
3. Pleadings – exchange of Statement of Claim, Defence, and Reply, setting out each party’s case
4. Discovery – exchange of relevant documents between the parties
5. Interlocutory applications – injunctions, summary judgment, striking out (where applicable)
6. Trial – each party presents evidence and legal arguments; the judge delivers judgment
7. Enforcement – if judgment is obtained, I assist with enforcement via Writ of Seizure and Sale, Garnishee Orders, or Examination of Judgment Debtor

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I send a Letter of Demand before suing?

In most cases, yes. A Letter of Demand formally puts the other party on notice and gives them an opportunity to resolve the matter without court proceedings. Courts may take a dim view of parties who commence litigation without first attempting settlement.

How long does civil litigation take in Singapore?

A debt claim resolved by default judgment may be concluded in weeks. A contested trial in the Magistrates Court typically takes 6 to 18 months; District Court matters may take longer. I provide a realistic timeline estimate at the outset.

If I win, will I recover my legal costs?

In Singapore, the general rule is that costs follow the event – the losing party pays a portion of the winner’s legal costs. However, court-awarded costs are calculated on a standard basis and rarely cover 100% of actual legal fees. I discuss cost recovery prospects openly before proceedings are commenced.

What is the Small Claims Tribunal and when should I use it?

The Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) handles claims up to $20,000 (or up to $30,000 by agreement). It is designed for self-represented parties and does not permit lawyers to appear at hearings. I assist clients with SCT preparation and strategy even though lawyers do not appear at the hearing itself.

Can I get an emergency injunction in Singapore?

Yes. Where there is an urgent need to prevent an imminent act – for example, to stop an asset from being dissipated or transferred before judgment – an interim injunction (including a Mareva injunction freezing assets) may be sought on an urgent basis.

What is a Mareva injunction?

A Mareva injunction (also called a freezing order) is a court order that prevents a defendant from dissipating or removing assets before a judgment can be enforced. I advise on whether the circumstances justify an application for such relief.