Plain answers to common questions about disputes
General information on Singapore law, written in everyday language. Read up before you decide anything, then speak with a lawyer about your own situation.
Disputes guides
What to do when a disagreement turns into a legal claim, from the first letter to enforcing a judgment.
Before a claim
4 articles
Received a letter of demand? What it means and how to respond
A letter of demand is a formal request to pay or do something by a deadline, usually sent before a court claim. It does not start a case, but how you respond can shape what happens next.
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Time limits for bringing a claim in Singapore
The Limitation Act 1959 sets deadlines for starting a court claim. Once a deadline passes, the claim can be defeated on that ground alone, so it is worth checking dates early.
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Mediation as a way to settle a dispute in Singapore
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process in which a neutral mediator helps the parties reach their own settlement. It can happen before a court case starts or while one is under way.
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Arbitration or court litigation: what is the difference?
Arbitration and court litigation both end with a binding decision, but they work differently. This guide compares privacy, control over the process, appeals and enforcement.
Read the guideGoing to court and getting paid
4 articles
Which court or tribunal hears a civil claim in Singapore?
Civil claims in Singapore are heard in different courts depending largely on how much is claimed. Knowing where your claim belongs helps you understand the process, the likely costs and whether you can act without a lawyer.
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How a civil lawsuit runs in Singapore: the main stages
Since 1 April 2022, civil cases in Singapore have followed the Rules of Court 2021. This guide walks through the main stages, from the first court papers to trial, judgment and appeal.
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Enforcing a court judgment in Singapore
Winning a judgment does not guarantee payment. If the other side does not comply, the winning party must take steps to enforce it, and the right step depends on what the debtor owns.
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Recovering a debt: statutory demands, bankruptcy and winding up
When a debt is clear and unpaid, a creditor may use a statutory demand under the Insolvency, Restructuring and Dissolution Act 2018. It is a strong step with serious consequences, and it suits some debts but not others.
Read the guideTax and company disputes
2 articles
Disagreeing with an IRAS tax assessment: objection and appeal
If you think an income tax assessment is wrong, there is a set process for challenging it: an objection to IRAS first, then an appeal to the Income Tax Board of Review, and in some cases a further appeal to the courts.
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Shareholder disputes and minority oppression (section 216)
When those in control of a company treat a shareholder unfairly, section 216 of the Companies Act 1967 gives that shareholder a way to ask the court for help. This guide explains what counts as oppression and what the court can order.
Read the guideDidn't find your question?
These guides are general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, so ask us about yours in a private, no-pressure conversation.
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