Best Corporate Governance Lawyers in Singapore

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Jenny Lai & Co

Jenny Lai & Co

15 minutes Free Consultation
Toa Payoh, Singapore

Founded in 1996
5 people in their team
English
Chinese
Jenny Lai & Co is an established law firm providing high-quality and efficient legal services in various areas of law for over 20 years. Our firm specializes in family law, adoption, Wills, trust, Probate/Letters of Administration, real estate and conveyancing.Since 1996, we have built numerous...
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Regal Law LLC

Regal Law LLC

1 hour Free Consultation
City Hall, Singapore

Founded in 2020
21 people in their team
English
Chinese
Malay
Tamil
Hindi
Malayalam
Telugu
At Regal Law LLC, we are committed to providing quality and affordable legal services. We strive to do our best for the clients, keeping in mind their interests and also being a trusted and reliable partner to clients. Our areas of practice are - Criminal Law, Family Law, Civil litigation,...
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Founded in 1995
4 people in their team
English
Chinese
Malay
The firm primarily operates in these practice areas: Criminal Law, Civil Litigation, Dispute Resolution, Corporate and Commercial Law, Debt Collection, German Law, and Transnational and Cross Border Work particularly in the ASEAN region. We have developed a very close working relationship with our...
Yuen Law LLC
Clarke Quay, Singapore

Founded in 2012
40 people in their team
English
Chinese
Yuen Law LLC is a highly accoladed Singapore law practice established in 2012. Our practitioners are highly experienced in sale and purchase of companies and assets, joint ventures, venture capital, corporate law, fintech regulations, disputes resolution, family law and trusts, and conveyancing....
Actus Legal LLP
Chinatown, Singapore

Founded in 2018
2 people in their team
English
Competent Compassionate Community Counsel who can provide good legal services at affordable rates!Actus Legal LLP (UEN T18LL1456F) is a limited liability law partnership, registered in Singapore under the Limited Liability Partnerships Act (Chapter 163A). We are a new firm that has started in...
Bhavini S Law Practice
Tanjong Pagar, Singapore

Founded in 2014
2 people in their team
English
Hindi
Gujarati
A boutique full service law practice providing consultation & legal representation in areas of : - Investment related Immigration Programs; Global Retirement Programs; Registration of Trademarks & Patents; Business Formation & Management; Cross border trading & Business to Business...
I.R.B. LAW LLP
Beach Road, Singapore

Founded in 2012
100 people in their team
English
Chinese
Malay
Tamil
Hindi
I.R.B Law LLP was founded with a vision to build a law firm that delivers effective and efficient legal services to everyone, from the man on the street to large corporations. IRB Law now has over 50 employees, allowing us to maintain a highly personalised level of service, whilst enabling us to...
Lions Chambers LLC
Serangoon, Singapore

Founded in 2021
4 people in their team
English
Lions Chambers LLC is a Singapore-based boutique law firm that focuses on designing precise legal solutions for individual and corporate needs. The firm recognises that no two issues are the same, and prides itself in helping clients resolve issues in the most efficient and timely manner.About our...
KGP LEGAL LLC
Tanjong Pagar, Singapore

Founded in 2018
10 people in their team
English
Founded in 2018, KGP Legal LLC is a Singapore-licensed corporate and commercial international law that provides seamless assistance to clients in Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Japan. It is a member firm of the InterAsia Law Alliance, a network of independent liaison law firms in the...
KELVIN CHIA PARTNERSHIP

KELVIN CHIA PARTNERSHIP

15 minutes Free Consultation
Harbourfront, Singapore

Founded in 1995
80 people in their team
English
Chinese
Japanese
Malay
Tamil
Tagalog
Burmese
Thai
Kelvin Chia Partnership is a commercial law firm established in Singapore since 1995 with an established regional presence through on-shore offices in Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia. We have strong affiliations with law firms in the Philippines and Malaysia, and as an exclusive...
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About Corporate Governance Law in Singapore

Corporate governance refers to the system of rules, practices, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled. In Singapore, the framework for corporate governance is robust, aiming to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity within businesses. Good corporate governance builds trust among shareholders, investors, regulators, and the public, and is essential for maintaining Singapore's reputation as a leading global financial hub. Laws and codes in Singapore set standards for how companies must be managed, outlining responsibilities for directors and executives, and protecting the interests of stakeholders.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer who specializes in corporate governance is vital in various situations. Common scenarios include:

  • Setting up a new company and understanding compliance requirements
  • Advising boards and directors on their legal duties and responsibilities
  • Drafting and reviewing corporate governance frameworks and policies
  • Managing conflicts of interest or related party transactions
  • Responding to regulatory investigations or enforcement actions
  • Handling shareholder disputes
  • Conducting due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, or investments
  • Improving risk management and internal controls
  • Assisting with disclosures and compliance reporting

A lawyer can help you navigate complex regulations, avoid common pitfalls, and safeguard your company’s reputation and operations.

Local Laws Overview

Singapore’s corporate governance landscape is governed by a mix of statutes, codes, and best practice guidelines. Key aspects include:

  • Companies Act: The primary legislation governing all Singapore-incorporated companies. It covers director duties, disclosure obligations, meetings, and reporting requirements.
  • Code of Corporate Governance: This is a set of principles and provisions that listed companies on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) must comply with or explain why they do not. It addresses board composition, remuneration, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
  • SGX Listing Rules: For companies listed on the Singapore Exchange, these rules outline disclosure, governance, and continuing obligations.
  • Personal Data Protection Act: Sets standards for safeguarding personal data, which ties into risk management and compliance.
  • Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) guidelines: For financial institutions, MAS issues additional regulations and guidelines on governance and risk controls.

These frameworks collectively ensure that companies operate with accountability, fair treatment of shareholders, transparent reporting, and effective risk management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is corporate governance and why does it matter?

Corporate governance is the framework of rules and practices that direct and control a company. It matters because it determines how companies meet their objectives, protect stakeholders, and maintain ethical standards.

Who is responsible for corporate governance in a company?

The responsibility mainly falls on the board of directors and senior management. They set the company’s governance policies and ensure compliance with laws and codes.

Is the Code of Corporate Governance legally binding in Singapore?

The Code applies mainly to companies listed on the SGX. It follows a comply-or-explain approach, meaning listed companies must comply with it or explain their reasons for non-compliance in annual reports.

What are directors’ duties under Singapore law?

Directors must act honestly and in the best interests of the company. They are expected to avoid conflicts of interest, act with due care and skill, and not misuse company information or assets.

Are private companies required to follow the same governance codes as public companies?

While some rules, like those in the Companies Act, apply to all companies, the Code of Corporate Governance primarily applies to listed companies. However, private companies are encouraged to adopt good governance practices as appropriate.

What happens if a company fails to comply with corporate governance laws?

Non-compliance can result in regulatory action, fines, disqualification of directors, shareholder lawsuits, or damage to the company’s reputation.

Can shareholders challenge the decisions of directors?

Yes, under certain circumstances. Shareholders may seek legal remedies if directors act outside their powers, breach their duties, or fail to act in the company’s best interests.

How do Singapore companies handle related party transactions?

Related party transactions must be disclosed and, for listed companies, often require shareholder approval depending on the nature and value of the transaction. This is to prevent conflicts of interest and abuse.

What is the role of audit committees in Singapore companies?

For listed companies, audit committees oversee financial reporting, internal controls, and risk management. They play a key role in ensuring integrity and transparency in corporate governance.

How often should a company review its corporate governance policies?

It is good practice to review policies at least annually, or whenever there is a significant change in law, the company’s structure, or business operations.

Additional Resources

The following resources and organizations can be helpful for those seeking more information or legal advice on corporate governance in Singapore:

  • Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) - regulates business entities and provides guidelines
  • Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) - oversees financial institutions and issues governance guidelines
  • Singapore Exchange (SGX) - provides rules and the Code of Corporate Governance for listed companies
  • Law Society of Singapore - directory for finding qualified corporate lawyers
  • Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) - offers training and resources on governance best practices
  • Government of Singapore websites for updates on the Companies Act and related regulations

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in corporate governance, consider the following steps:

  • Assess your situation and identify the specific governance issue or concern
  • Gather relevant documents such as company constitution, board policies, minutes, and regulatory filings
  • Contact a lawyer or legal advisor with expertise in Singapore corporate governance
  • Prepare questions and clarify your desired outcomes to make the most of your consultation
  • Stay informed by visiting the recommended resources and keeping up to date with regulatory changes

Legal support can help protect your organization, ensure compliance, and foster a culture of accountability and transparency.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Singapore through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Corporate Governance, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Singapore - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.