Blog

Comprehensive Guide to Corporate, Commercial & Civil Litigation

3 April 2025

Legal disputes can be stressful, time-consuming, and complex. Whether you’re a business owner dealing with a contract dispute, a shareholder facing corporate conflicts, or an individual navigating a civil lawsuit, understanding the litigation process is essential. At PDLegal, we work closely with our clients to provide clear legal guidance, strategic representation, and solutions that align with their goals. 

What is Corporate, Commercial & Civil Litigation? 

Corporate, Commercial & Civil Litigation covers a broad range of legal disputes, from business disagreements to personal legal conflicts. These disputes can arise from broken contracts, financial issues, or even regulatory challenges. Regardless of the complexity, having the right legal team by your side makes all the difference. 

Key Areas of Litigation 

Corporate Disputes 

Corporate litigation often involves disagreements between shareholders, directors, or third parties. Some of the most common cases include: 

    • Shareholder and partnership disputes 
    • Breach of fiduciary duty 
    • Corporate fraud and asset recovery 
    • Disputes over mergers and acquisitions 

These disputes can have serious financial and reputational consequences, so swift legal action is crucial. 

Commercial Disputes 

Running a business is challenging, and legal conflicts can arise at any time. Commercial litigation includes: 

    • Breach of contract claims 
    • Banking and finance disputes 
    • Trade and supply chain conflicts 
    • Consumer protection cases 

A well-handled dispute resolution strategy can prevent long-term damage to a business and help maintain positive relationships. 

Civil Litigation 

Civil litigation involves non-business-related disputes between individuals or organizations. These cases often include: 

    • Real estate conflicts 
    • Employment disputes 
    • Defamation and reputation management 
    • Regulatory compliance issues 

Whether it’s a contractual disagreement or a dispute over property ownership, our team helps clients navigate the legal process effectively. 

The Litigation Process: What to Expect 

If you’re facing a legal dispute, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Here’s a breakdown of the typical litigation process: 

    • Case Evaluation & Investigation – Understanding the situation, gathering facts, and assessing the legal standing of the case. 
    • Filing a Claim or Defense – Preparing and submitting necessary legal documents. 
    • Discovery & Evidence Gathering – Collecting relevant information from all parties involved. 
    • Pre-Trial & Negotiations – Attempting to settle the matter outside of court when possible. 
    • Trial & Court Proceedings – Presenting the case in court if a settlement isn’t reached. 
    • Appeals & Enforcement – Challenging court rulings or ensuring compliance with judgments. 

Every case is unique, so the approach needs to be tailored to fit the specific circumstances. 

Resolving Disputes Without Going to Court 

Litigation isn’t always the best or only option. Many disputes can be resolved through: 

    • Mediation – A neutral mediator helps parties find common ground. 
    • Arbitration – A private process where an arbitrator makes a binding decision. 
    • Negotiation – Direct discussions aimed at reaching a fair settlement. 

These alternative dispute resolution methods can save time, money, and stress while still achieving a favorable outcome. 

Why Choose PDLegal? 

At PDLegal, we understand that legal disputes can disrupt businesses, impact livelihoods, and create unnecessary stress. That’s why we: 

    • Develop personalized legal strategies tailored to your case 
    • Offer transparent guidance so you know what to expect at every step 
    • Represent clients at all levels of trial and appellate litigation 
    • Help businesses and individuals navigate disputes efficiently and effectively 

Whether you’re dealing with a high-stakes corporate battle or a personal legal issue, we’re here to provide the support and expertise you need. 

Need Legal Help? Let’s Talk. 

If you’re facing a corporate, commercial, or civil dispute, don’t navigate it alone. Contact PDLegal today, and let’s discuss how we can help you protect your rights and resolve your legal challenges effectively. 

Contact PD Legal today for comprehensive legal support in Singapore’s dynamic maritime sector



 

FAQs

Which type of lawyer earns the most in Singapore?

Corporate lawyers, banking and finance lawyers, and dispute resolution specialists (such as international arbitration lawyers) tend to earn the highest salaries in Singapore. Lawyers specializing in mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and capital markets also command high pay due to the complexity and high-stakes nature of their work.

How much do corporate lawyers make in Singapore?

Corporate lawyers in Singapore earn varying salaries based on experience and firm size. Entry-level corporate lawyers typically earn between SGD 4,000 to SGD 8,000 per month, while mid-level lawyers can make SGD 8,000 to SGD 15,000. Senior corporate lawyers and partners at top firms can earn well over SGD 20,000 per month.

Can I sue someone without a lawyer in Singapore?

Yes, you can represent yourself in court and sue someone without a lawyer in Singapore. However, legal proceedings can be complex, and having legal representation is recommended, especially for cases involving corporate disputes, financial claims, or criminal matters.

How to check a lawyer’s license in Singapore?

You can verify a lawyer’s license in Singapore by checking the Legal Services Regulatory Authority (LSRA) e-Services website or the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) Roll of Lawyers. These platforms list all licensed lawyers and their eligibility to practice.

Where can I verify a lawyer?

Lawyers in Singapore can be verified through the Ministry of Law’s Legal Services Regulatory Authority (LSRA) portal or the Singapore Law Society’s directory, which provides details about a lawyer’s practice status and credentials.

Who is the best lawyer in Singapore?

There is no definitive “best lawyer” in Singapore, as different lawyers specialize in various fields. However, top-ranked law firms like Allen & Gledhill, Rajah & Tann, and Drew & Napier are known for having some of the most experienced and highly regarded lawyers in corporate, litigation, and commercial law.

What is FLA Singapore law?

FLA (Future Law Academy) Singapore is not a specific law but may refer to Foreign Lawyer Accreditation, which allows foreign-qualified lawyers to practice specific areas of law in Singapore under certain conditions. It may also refer to the Family Law Act, which governs family-related legal matters.

Do in-house lawyers need a practising certificate in Singapore?

No, in-house lawyers in Singapore do not require a practising certificate unless they intend to provide legal services to external clients. However, they must still be legally qualified and admitted to the Singapore Bar to perform legal work within their organization.

 

This article is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional legal consultation. We recommend seeking legal advice before making any decisions based on the information available in this article. PDLegal fully disclaims responsibility for any loss or damage which may result from relying on this article.

Chambers & Partners – Asia Pacific 2023

PDLegal LLC is pleased to announce that Managing Partner, Peter Doraisamy, has been recognised and ranked by Chambers & Partners (Asia Pacific 2023 for Shipping: Domestic: Litigation). The following quotes appear with Peter’s ranking: –

“Peter Doraisamy of PDLegal in Singapore is a noted shipping lawyer in the market. He handles a wide range of disputes, including ship grounding, cargo and fraud-related cases” – Chambers & Partners – Asia Pacific 2023

“He is excellent in litigation. He has very good control of the case, collecting the right evidence and putting this into a very successful trial.” – Shipping Litigation Client

Chambers and Partners is the leading independent professional legal research company operating across 200 jurisdictions. Chambers and Partners delivers detailed rankings and insights into the world’s leading lawyers and law firms.

This ranking is a testimony to the expertise and experience of the Firm’s shipping practice and would not be possible without the support of our clients and friends.

View All Awards

We’re here to help you.

Whether you're seeking advice, representation, or have general inquiries, we're here to help. if you would like to speak to us for more information, please contact our client services team who will be happy to assist.


    Let's Get In Touch

    Our Office

    • A:

      PDLegal LLC Advocates & Solicitors 1 Coleman Street #08-02 The Adelphi Singapore 179803

    • E:

      [email protected]

    • T:

      (65) 6220 0325

    • F:

      (65) 6220 0392

    • H:

      Mon - Fri : 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
      Sat : 8:30 am - 12:00 pm