Caring for your child is one of life’s greatest gifts. However, it’s not always easy – especially if you are raising a child with special needs. Although not openly spoken about, parents are often concerned:
“Who will take care of my child when I’m gone?”
“How do I protect them financially then?”
Let’s address these issues today.
This is arguably the most important component in a Will to protect your child. The role of a guardian goes beyond basic caregiving. Their job also involves emotional support, medical and educational decisions, and therapy routines.
A Will allows you to name your preferred primary guardian, backup guardians and instructions to guide them. Without one, a decision may ultimately be made by the court, which may not reflect what you wish for your child.
Typically, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of caretaking after death.
Most parents wish to leave money behind for their child, not realising that a lump sum inheritance may disrupt eligibility for certain financial support schemes. Through a Will, you will be able to structure the disbursement of payouts properly using trusts.
Initiatives like the Special Needs Trust Company (SNTC) Trust and Special Needs Savings Scheme (SNSS) help you achieve this by acting as a reliable avenue to manage the disbursement of your cash assets and CPF monies when you pass. This would ensure your child receives sustainable financial support, even after you’re no longer around.
A child with special needs may require lifetime support in terms of care and financial planning. To manage this, your Will should include important details such as:
These could cause unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.
Every parent wishes to protect and provide their children with a safe and stable future. For children with special needs, thoughtful legal and financial planning becomes even more critical.
If you are unsure where to start, we can guide you through your options before making informed decisions and creating a care plan that protects your child for life.
It is increasingly common for individuals to live or work in both Malaysia and Singapore. When such a person passes away in Malaysia, the family typically obtains a Grant of Probate from the Malaysian courts.
However, complications arise when the deceased also held assets in Singapore – such as bank accounts, CPF savings, insurance policies, shares or property.
Families often discover that the Malaysian Grant of Probate cannot be used directly in Singapore. What should they do then?
The executor must obtain either:
1️. A Resealed Malaysian Grant of Probate in Singapore, or
2️. A Fresh Grant of Probate issued by Singapore Courts.
This article compares both options and how families can identify unknown Singapore assets.
A Malaysian Grant of Probate allows an executor to deal with assets in Malaysia, but the Malaysian Grant of Probate is not recognised in Singapore by Singapore financial institutions.
This means:
…cannot release funds or assets unless the executor presents a valid grant – issued or recognised in Singapore.
To satisfy this requirement, executors typically reseal their Malaysian grant of probate or apply for a fresh grant of probate in Singapore.
For official guidance, see the Singapore Courts’ explanation of foreign probate requirements.
Resealing is the process by which the Singapore Courts officially recognises a foreign Grant of Probate. Once resealed, a foreign grant has the same effect as a Singapore-issued probate grant, allowing institutions in Singapore to release the deceased’s assets.
Because Malaysia is a Commonwealth country, resealing is permitted under Singapore’s Probate and Administration Act.
Resealing is suitable when:
Typical requirements include:
Resealing may not always be appropriate. A fresh grant of probate is appropriate when:
A fresh Singapore probate application requires:
This is a common issue faced by many families.
Many who have worked in Singapore decades ago may have opened bank accounts, contributed to CPF, purchased insurance, or invested in shares – all while their families in Malaysia have little to no documentation of.
A structured asset search can uncover:
Without conducting an asset search in Singapore, these would be left unclaimed, possibly wasting many years of effort and savings.
Losing a loved one is hard. It gets even tougher when you have to sort the paperwork during the grieving process. Consider engaging an experienced professional to handle cross-border complexities, and minimise the stress and overwhelm that comes with it.
Contact LP Law for assistance with any foreign probate and cross-border matters in Singapore.
Disclaimer:
The content of this article does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied on as such. Specific legal advice should be sought for your circumstances.
It starts innocently enough.
An 18-year-old student borrows a vape from a friend. It tastes sweet, it feels harmless, and it’s marketed online as “nicotine-free.” But weeks later, he receives a call from the authorities. Laboratory tests reveal that the vape he used contained etomidate, a powerful anaesthetic that has now been classified as a controlled drug under Singapore’s Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA).
What was meant to be fun has suddenly become a criminal investigation.This scenario is increasingly common. Singapore has now drawn a hard line: vaping is a serious drug offence.
The Misuse of Drugs Act 1973 (MDA) is Singapore’s main law that regulates the use of drugs. It outlines offences such as possession, consumption, and trafficking of controlled substances.
To better manage drug offences, the MDA groups drugs into three main classes; A, B, and C, based on how harmful each substance can be.
Class A drugs are considered the most dangerous. Examples include heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine.
Consequences:
These carry the harshest penalties:
Possession/ consumption: 5 to 20 years imprisonment and 5 to 15 strokes of the cane.
Class B drugs are considered harmful. This category includes cannabis, codeine mixtures, and certain amphetamines.
Consequences:
Possession/ consumption: 3 to 20 years imprisonment and 3 to 10 strokes of the cane.
Class C drugs are controlled substances and offences are also criminal. This group includes certain prescription-type medicines that can be abused and, from 1 September 2025, etomidate – the substance now linked to drug-laced vapes known as K-pods.
Consequences:
Possession/ consumption: 2 to 10 years imprisonment and 2 to 5 strokes of the cane.
Trafficking of drugs:
Long-term imprisonment, caning, and even the death penalty
In Singapore, vaping (even without etomidate) has long been illegal under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act (TCASA).
Under this law:
In 2024 and 2025, Singapore’s Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) and Health Sciences Authority (HSA) detected a worrying trend: illegal vapes laced with etomidate, a hospital-grade anesthetic.
These K-pods look identical to regular vapes; same design, same packaging, except they contain a potent controlled drug. When inhaled, etomidate can cause side effects that include dizziness, blackouts, and dependency.
Since etomidate was not previously listed under the MDA, offenders could only be charged under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act (TCASA).
The government officially classified etomidate as a Class C controlled drug from 1 September 2025. This reclassification means vapes containing etomidate are now treated as drug offences.
Although regular vapes and drug-laced vapes look almost identical, the law treats them very differently.
Regular vapes, which usually contain nicotine or flavouring, are governed by TCASA.
Under this law:
These cases are handled by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) under the Ministry of Health.
Drug-laced vapes, often called K-pods, fall under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA) because they contain etomidate, now a Class C controlled drug.
Because they look identical, the government has warned that anyone who vapes is taking a legal risk and may not even realise they are committing a serious drug offence.
For users, this means you could face years of imprisonment and caning even if you were unaware of your vape’s contents.
For sellers or importers, your actions could now fall under the same laws that apply to drug traffickers.
This change affects workplaces and educational institutions. Employers should update their policies to treat vaping as a potential drug-related issue. Schools could include this in anti-drug education to help students understand the legal and personal risks.
Practical steps include:
Authorities discovered that an alarming 1 in 3 vapes seized contained etomidate or other controlled substances.
The government’s decision to list etomidate under the MDA is a direct response to this trend. It aims to deter young people from consuming or distributing drugs through vapes and to hold offenders accountable.
The message is clear: vaping is dangerous and criminal.
Consequences are further amplified if your vape contains controlled drugs like etomidate.
One mistake could cost you your freedom, career, or future.
Statutory declarations – you see this on government forms, business documents, maybe even heard someone mention it while handing in an application.
But what exactly are they, and are they important?
In Singapore, statutory declarations are often used in official processes; from business registrations and immigration matters to property or administrative applications.
Yet, many people only learn about statutory declarations only when they need one.
In this guide, we explain what statutory declarations are, when you might need one, and why having them signed before a Commissioner for Oaths is what makes them legally valid.
A statutory declaration is a written statement that you formally declare to be true.
It is often required when you need to verify certain facts but don’t have supporting documents or official records. This could include confirming your personal details, verifying business information, or declaring ownership of property.
In Singapore, statutory declarations are governed by the Oaths and Declarations Act. They must be made before an authorised officer, such as a Commissioner for Oaths, in order for the declaration to be valid.
Statutory declarations are required more often than most people realise. They are used for multiple personal, business, and administrative matters – essentially, whenever you need to declare that certain information is true.
You may need to make a statutory declaration when:
Example: Someone applying for a long-term visit pass may be asked by ICA to make a statutory declaration confirming their family relationship. Once the declaration is signed before and by a Commissioner for Oaths, it becomes legally recognised as a sworn statement.
You may have also heard the word “affidavit” used in legal or administrative settings, but what’s the difference?
An affidavit is a statement sworn under oath, while a statutory declaration is not sworn under oath but is claimed to be true.
In both cases, the document must be signed before an authorised person, such as a Commissioner for Oaths in Singapore. This ensures that your statement is properly witnessed and verified.
Preparing affidavits and statutory declarations can feel daunting, but the process is straightforward when you take the right steps.
The most important one being to ensure your documents are properly validated by an authorised person.
LP Law Corporation offers efficient and accurate commissioning services, get in touch with us for a Commissioner for Oaths to validate documents used in Singapore.
Imagine this: you moved halfway across the world to build a life with your spouse, but now the marriage is breaking down. Do you return home, or remain in Singapore for work? What about your children who hold dual citizenship, or assets spread across multiple countries?
For expats, divorce is not just the end of a relationship – it is the start of a complex legal journey shaped by both Singapore law and international realities.
If you are an expatriate navigating divorce in Singapore, understanding the key legal steps can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
The Singapore courts will only hear a divorce case if they have jurisdiction. Either you or your spouse must be a Singaporean Citizen, or have lived here continuously for at least three years. You must also have been married for at least 3 years, unless you can prove exceptional hardship and obtain permission from the court.
Note: Couples married under Syariah Law must file in the Syariah Court
Beyond these basic eligibility rules, expatriate couples often ask whether it matters where they were married or what their nationalities are.
Many expatriate couples wonder whether they can file for divorce in Singapore – especially if they married overseas or if only one spouse is a Singapore citizen.
The short answer is yes, but it depends on how strongly you or your spouse are connected to Singapore.
Two foreigners who married outside Singapore can file for divorce here if one of them meets the requirements under Section 93 of the Women’s Charter
Example:
A French couple wed in Paris but have lived and worked in Singapore for the last four years may apply for divorce in Singapore, as long as they have sufficient legal and factual connection to Singapore at the time of filing.
If one spouse is a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident, the connection to Singapore is usually clear – citizens are presumed permanently residing in Singapore.
That means the Singapore courts generally have jurisdiction, even if the foreign spouse wishes to return home.
Example:
A Singaporean married to an Australian who both live in Singapore can file for divorce here. Even if the foreign spouse later relocates, the Singapore court can still hear the case, as long as requirements were met at the time of filing.
However, if most assets or family life are overseas, the court will consider whether Singapore is the most appropriate forum to handle the matter.
No. A marriage solemnised overseas can still be dissolved in Singapore as long as the court has jurisdiction. However, if the marriage was conducted under religious or foreign law (for example, under Syariah Law), the process differs. Muslim couples must file in the Syariah Court.
Regardless whether both parties are foreign or if only one spouse is Singaporean, what matters is your legal connection to Singapore.
If you have been living, working, or building your family life here, the Singapore courts can likely hear your divorce.
If you meet these requirements, the next step is to establish the legal grounds for divorce in Singapore.
There is only one legal ground for divorce in Singapore: the irretrievable breakdown of marriage. This may be proven through:
The process begins with an Originating Application filed through eLitigation.
Divorce in Singapore has two stages.
The court reviews the case and if, satisfied, grants an Interim judgement confirming that the marriage has broken down.
The court the addresses related issues, including:
Only when all matters are resolved does the court issue a Final Judgement of Divorce, formally ending the marriage.
Expat divorces often involve:
These complexities make legal guidance essential for expatriates.
At LP Law Corporation, we know that expat divorces carry unique challenges – from diving assets across borders to ensuring your children’s future is secure. We provide more than legal advice: we offer clarity, strategy, and support at every step. Our goal is to safeguard your rights while reducing the stress of a process that can feel overwhelming.
With LP Law by your side, you don’t have to face this alone. Contact us today and let us help you move forward with confidence.
Tenancy agreements are an essential aspect of rentals. A poorly written agreement could cause landlords or tenants to take on extra liabilities unnecessarily. Whether you are a landlord or tenant, look out for these clauses to protect your interests.
Payment schedule:
Utility Bill:
A covenant is a commitment made during the lease term by either party that is legally binding. Covenants are typically expressed in the tenancy agreement at the discretion of tenants and landlords, but there are also implied covenants covered by law. Here are a few examples of implied covenants.
Landlord’s Covenants:
Tenant’s Covenants:
A well-drafted tenancy agreement ensures fairness and clarity for both tenants and landlords. By outlining obligations upfront, risks of disputes are reduced and your interests are protected.
Having doubts about your tenancy agreement? At LP Law Corporation, our lawyer can review, draft, and negotiate lease agreements to safeguard your rights. Contact us today to secure your rental with peace of mind.
In Singapore, pets are legally classified as property. This means they cannot directly inherit assets or be named as beneficiaries in a will. Special arrangements have to be made to ensure your furry or feathered family members are cared for after you’re gone.
Since pets are considered property, you cannot leave them money directly in your will. You can however state who gets ownership of your pet.
Here is where a pet trust comes in.
A pet trust allows you to:
This way, you can have peace of mind knowing your pet will be cared for, even if you are no longer around.
Unlike some countries, Singapore does not have dedicated legislation for pet trusts. They are considered ‘non-charitable purpose trusts’, which serve to benefit a particular individual and can be more complex and raise legal challenges.
If you are hoping to set one up, it is essential to seek professional advice on the best way to go about it.
The Settlor (person creating the trust) can be:
A pet trust can operate:
Created through a will, these take effect only after the trustor’s death and must comply with the Wills Act. You name the pet caregiver in your will and state that they are to receive your pet as property, along with any funds to care for it.
Created during your lifetime they take effect immediately (or at a specified event, such as incapacity).
If the trustee caregiver breaches their duty, a typical beneficiary can file a claim for breach of trust. However, a pet would not be able to make a claim on their own.
To safeguard your wishes, you may appoint a Pet Trust Protector (a trusted friend or professional lawyer) who can oversee the trust’s execution, remove or appoint trustees, and ensure funds are used properly.
As the law on pet trusts in Singapore is still unclear, it is best to consult a lawyer with expertise in estate planning and trust law.
Alternatively, you can:
Whether your trust is living or testamentary, a Letter of Wishes is a non-binding document guiding the trustee or guardian on how to carry out your instructions.
It may include:
In Singapore, while pet trusts are not specifically legislated, there are legal structures available to protect your pet’s future. A well-drafted trust, combined with clear instructions and the right people, can ensure your beloved companion is loved and cared for. Let us ease the process for you, and for a peace of mind knowing that your pets are well-taken care of.
Singapore has seen a surge in reported animal abuse. In 2024 alone, there was a record high of 961 cases of animal cruelty and welfare concerns. These numbers are shocking, highlighting the growing need for public awareness and legal accountability.
Singapore advocates for animals under laws such as the Animals and Birds Act (ABA). It condemns animal cruelty and neglect, protecting the welfare of animals.
Under the ABA, animal cruelty includes both direct physical harm and psychological/ emotional suffering.
Some forms of animal cruelty are:
Pet owners in Singapore are expected to comply with the Code of Animal Welfare (for Pet Owners), which sets out the following minimum duties:
Failure to comply constitutes neglect, which is a criminal offence.
Neglect involves the failure to provide the minimum standard of care for animals. Statistics show there were 137 pet abandonment cases involving 285 animals in 2023, more than double the number reported in 2022.
According to SPCA, neglect and abandonment make up the majority of animal cruelty cases.
In 2024, out of the 961 cases, a staggering 324 cases involved animals in poor living conditions, and 120 cases involved abandonment. These were among others such as unattended pets and high rise syndrome – where animals sustain injuries falling from a high place.
Often viewed as a harmless indulgence, overfeeding can also be a form of neglect or even cruelty under Singapore law.
The importance lies in whether the pet’s dietary needs are met and whether any harm results.
Legal protections exist not only to punish wrongdoing but also to set standards for compassionate and responsible care. The way we treat animals reflects our societal values.
The law is clear: animals are sentient beings entitled to protection from neglect and cruelty.
If you witness any act of animal cruelty or neglect, report it immediately to the AVS (Animal & Veterinary Service) or SPCA. Your voice can help prevent suffering and save lives.
For legal assistance with related matters, drop us a call or message here.
Imagine signing up for a gym package because it says “no hidden fees” – only to be hit with surprise charges. Or buying a brand-new phone that turns out to be a refurbished set.
The Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA) is Singapore’s safeguard against situations like these. It spells out what counts as unfair business practices and gives consumers the right to seek redress.
A supplier is acting unfairly if they:
In short: if a business tries to trick, pressure, or take advantage of you, it could fall under an unfair practice.
If you’ve experienced an unfair practice, here’s what you can do:
Example:
You’re claiming $35,000. You may choose to abandon $5,000 and proceed with a $30,000 claim in the Tribunal. But once you do, you cannot chase the extra $5,000 later.
Don’t wait too long! You must file your claim within 2 years of either:
(Whichever is later)
Don’t wait too long! You must file your claim within 2 years of either:
(Whichever is later)
Claim Amount
Where to Go
What It Means
≤ $30,000
Small Claims Tribunal
Claim directly under CPFTA
> $30,000
Higher Court
Tribunal cannot hear your case
> $30,000 (but abandon excess)
Small Claims Tribunal
Claim capped at $30,000, extra amount forfeited
The CPFTA isn’t just another piece of legislation – it’s there to protect you in your everyday transactions.
With CPFTA knowledge, you can:
If you think you’ve been misled or treated unfairly, don’t ignore it. Act quickly, and if your claim is close to or above the $30,000 limit, speak to a lawyer to understand your best options.
Our legal team is here to help you navigate every step of the process.
Thinking about taking your business global?
Overseas markets present exciting new opportunities, but such ventures come with risks and what may potentially be a legal minefield.
When starting a business in Singapore, it is important to know the different business structures available and decide on the one that best fits your needs. Here are some things to consider:
Global business operations are governed by a labyrinth of laws and regulations that vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. Understanding the legal landscape of your target market is essential before expansion takes place:
Each country has its own rules and regulations, affecting everything from business registration to taxation and labour laws.
Businesses must understand tariffs, trade barriers, and international trade agreements are essential for smooth operations and competitive pricing.
You will also need to comply with various international standards, including environmental protocols and anti-corruption laws.
Non-compliance can lead to serious penalties – from financial penalties to disrupted operations and reputational damage. Legal due diligence and strategic planning is essential for success.
Setting up a legal and operational business structure that aligns with local regulations is crucial.
Choosing the right type of business entity (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, limited partnership) is critical. Each option has its own legal, tax, and operational implications.
Intellectual property (IP) is often among a company’s most valuable assets. Ensure your IP rights are protected in every country your business is in:
Cross-border deals rely heavily on airtight legal contracts. They must be carefully drafted to address:
As businesses collect and process increasing amounts of data globally, compliance with data protection and privacy laws becomes more challenging but crucial.
The complexities of international expansion requires the guidance of expert legal counsel. Specialists in international business law can provide invaluable advice on structuring your expansion, navigating legal hurdles, and ensuring compliance across all aspects of your operations.
As a new entrant into a foreign market, you may not be as familiar with the local regulatory landscape as you may be back home, and this problem is compounded as laws and regulations constantly evolve.
The best way around this is to seek the advice of local counsel who are well versed in the relevant areas of the law – LP Law Corporation’s global network allows for a seamless connection with our regional offices and to provide the contextualised advice that you need to set up here in Singapore.
By understanding and addressing the key legal considerations outlined in this guide, businesses can position themselves for successful global growth. Proactive legal planning and consultation are important, especially when countering the intricacies of expanding internationally.
Ready to take your business across borders? Let our team guide you through the legal landscape with clarity and confidence. Reach out to us today for tailored advice and trusted expertise that supports your global ambitions.