Civil disputes and litigation
From letter of demand through pleadings, mediation, and trial in Singapore courts.
When to seek advice
Civil claims arise when a party alleges breach of contract, unpaid debt, employment wrongdoing, or property damage. Most matters sit in the State Courts or General Division of the High Court depending on value and subject.
Early advice clarifies Limitation Act deadlines, preserves evidence, and tests whether settlement remains viable before filing fees mount.
Matters we handle
- Contracts — supply agreements, services, tenancy, partnership breakdowns
- Debt recovery — statutory demands, summary judgment, enforcement
- Employment — wrongful termination, restraint of trade, salary claims
- Property — defective works, specific performance, access disputes
Procedural sequence
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Pre-action | Letter of demand, document exchange, without prejudice talks |
| Commencement | Originating claim or writ; service; memorandum of appearance |
| Pleadings | Statement of claim, defence, reply |
| Discovery | Affidavits of evidence-in-chief; court-directed mediation |
| Trial | Hearing before a judge; judgment; appeal within prescribed time |
Our role
We draft pleadings, advise on evidence for each element of the cause of action, and appear at case conferences and trials. Settlements address payment terms, confidentiality, and release from future claims where appropriate.
Consultations from SGD 280. Litigation quoted on anticipated hearings, document volume, and interlocutory applications.
General description of Singapore civil procedure — not legal advice. Outcomes depend on facts and judicial discretion.