Dentons Rodyk & Davidson is a prominent Singapore-based law firm operating under a verein structure that enables it to support cross-border dispute management and resolution. The disputes team has more than 75 lawyers. The firm excels in dispute resolution related to the areas of commercial, shipping, insolvency, construction, international arbitration, and white-collar crime.
The practice’s portfolio of work includes cross-border enforcement litigation, joint venture disputes having multiple touchpoints around the globe, trust and equity, economic torts, corporate and shareholder disputes, fiduciary obligations, trade finance, admiralty, construction, high-profile defamation cases, complex cases in claims defence, medical malpractice litigation, defence of medical practitioners in professional misconduct, defence of professionals in professional negligence claims, and white-collar criminal defence representation cases involving corruption and securities offences for domestic and international clients.
The firm takes a multi-faceted approach to manage its clients’ domestic and international disputes by utilising Dentons’ global platform. Dentons operates in over 160 locations across more than 80 countries worldwide. Dentons ASEAN network makes it the first global pan-ASEAN law firm. The network comprises established firms in Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Philippines and Thailand.
The well-rounded disputes team includes construction specialists Kia Jeng Koh and Kirindeep Singh, commercial litigation heads Mark Seah and Siang Pheng Lek, international arbitration specialists Lawrence Teh and Melvin See, insolvency veteran Ajinderpal Singh, employment and insurance specialist Edric Pan, and IP expert Gilbert Leong. Key clients include Bank of China, China Railway Construction Corporation, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Pacific Radiance, REC Solar and State Bank of India.
In a recent highlight, the Dentons team is representing the government of Sri Lanka in proceedings against the owners of the vessel X-Press Pearl, which was involved in a significant maritime disaster in May 2021. The case addresses extensive ecological damage caused by the vessel's sinking and the release of hazardous substances. The claim includes compensation for environmental restoration and economic damages. The matter is notable for its implications for environmental law and international maritime conventions. It raises questions about liability and the extent of damages recoverable under international law.
On the insolvency side, the firm acted for Bank of China in a winding-up application for Goldin Fund based on a corporate guarantee for a sizable loan. The case involved complex issues related to the insolvency of a major player in the oil trading industry, revealing widespread fraudulent activities that compromised creditor security.
In a construction highlight, the firm served as counsel to Yi Sheng Foundation in a dispute against Logistics Construction regarding an adjudication determination under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act. The case involved a moratorium application that was contested by the construction company. The case is significant as it marked a successful use of the adjudication process to enforce payment rights in the construction sector. It demonstrates the effectiveness of the Security of Payment Act in resolving payment disputes efficiently.
The international arbitration team was instructed by INEOS Styrolution Korea for arbitration proceedings concerning a shipment of styrene monomer that was damaged during transit. The case involved complex liability issues, potential claims against various parties involved in the shipping process, and explored the interplay between international trade law and arbitration.
The white-collar crime team represented a major European bank in a case involving allegations of fraud and misappropriation related to the operations of Hin Leong Trading. The matter involved criminal proceedings against key individuals and the recovery of misappropriated funds.
Client feedback
"They provide comprehensive advice that is attentive to detail and solution-oriented." – Bankruptcy
"The team provides sound advice, pays attention to detail, and prioritizes my organization's interests." – Commercial and transactions
"The lawyers facilitated discussions with the counterpart, identified a suitable mediator, and helped reach a settlement agreement." – Commercial and transactions
"The firm consistently demonstrates a high level of competence and professionalism. They are proactive, ensuring all matters are handled promptly and efficiently. Their availability at short notice is particularly commendable." – Commercial and transactions
"Dentons clearly outlines obligations in a neutral manner and suggests mutually beneficial solutions." – Construction
"They have a strong understanding of the contract, apply it clearly, and provide sound advice." – Construction
"Provided professional advice that was easy to understand, with consistent follow-up whenever needed." – Labour and employment
Sean Chen
"He listens well, has solid knowledge and is responsive."
Loh Kia Meng
“He exhibits the ability to listen without judgment, creating an environment where open communication is encouraged. He thoroughly analyses and considers the bigger picture, ensuring that all aspects of a situation are taken into account. Additionally, he is sensitive to details and their implications, recognising how they can impact the overall outcome. He demonstrates intellectual honesty by remaining within his legal expertise and not overstepping his bounds. Furthermore, he has a talent for framing complex ideas in an easy-to-understand manner, particularly when I struggled to grasp the situation and its implications."
“Loh Kia Meng is sharp and analytical, with a strong sense of commercial realism and litigation strategies. He is my go-to lawyer for all conflict-related work – a very safe pair of hands who knows his field exceptionally well.”
Kia Jeng Koh
"Attentive, careful and professional."
"He gives comprehensive and solution-oriented advice."
Kirindeep Singh
"Possesses good in-depth knowledge, is meticulous, and articulate."
Mark Seah
"He is highly professional in his advice, consistently providing information that enables us to make clear decisions. He is always available for advice and is very responsive, making communication easy."
Ajinderpal Singh
"Highly skilled and experienced, his dedication and responsiveness are outstanding. He consistently provides well-considered advice and support, often at short notice."
"Exceptionally responsive, demonstrating a deep commitment to our case. It is evident that he invests significant time and thought into the matter, offering us comfort that every effort will be made."
Alwyn Tan
"He helped communicate with the counterpart, identify the proper mediator, draft the settlement agreement, and finalise the dispute in the best interest of our company."
