A Legal disputes—whether between businesses or individuals—can be complex, high-stakes, and time-sensitive.
A skilled litigation lawyer ensures your rights are protected, your case is presented effectively, and the best possible outcome is achieved.
At its core, litigation falls into two main categories: commercial litigation (disputes between businesses, shareholders, or contractual parties) and civil litigation (legal conflicts between individuals or entities over matters such as property, negligence, or employment issues). Understanding the differences between the two is crucial in navigating the legal landscape.
Choosing the right lawyer can make or break your case. With extensive experience in corporate and commercial litigation, our firm is known for delivering strategic, results-driven solutions.
Whether you’re a business owner, shareholder, or an individual facing a legal dispute, our team is here to guide you through every stage of the litigation process.
What is a Litigation Lawyer?
A litigation lawyer is a legal professional who represents individuals and businesses in disputes that require resolution through the court system or alternative dispute resolution methods.
Their role is to protect your interests by providing strategic legal advice, negotiating settlements, and advocating for you in court if necessary.
The Litigation Process
Litigation is not just about arguing in court—it is a structured process that involves several critical stages:
Pre-Trail
This stage includes gathering evidence, drafting legal documents, filling claim or defenses, and engaging in settlement discussions.
A strong case is often built long before it reaches the courtroom.
Trial
If a resolution cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial, where both parties present their arguments, witnesses may be examined, and a judge determine the outcome.
Post-Trial
Even after a verdict, further steps may be necessary, such as enforcing judgments, appealing decisions, or negotiating settlements to close the matter efficiently.
Common Misconceptions About Litigation Lawyers
- “Litigation always means going to court.” Many disputes are resolved through mediation or settlement negotiations without ever reaching trial.
- “A litigation lawyer only argues in court.” Their role extends far beyond courtroom advocacy; they analyse legal risks, negotiate settlements, and advise on dispute resolution strategies.
- “Any lawyer can handle litigation.” Litigation requires specialised expertise in procedural rules, case strategy, and advocacy. Choosing an experienced litigation lawyer significantly increases your chances of a favourable outcome.
Our team of seasoned litigation lawyers understands the nuances of civil and commercial disputes, ensuring that you receive sound legal representation at every stage of the process.
Commercial Litigation vs Civil Litigation
What is Commercial Litigation?
Commercial litigation deals with disputes arising in a business or corporate setting. These cases typically involve:
Contractual Disputes
Breaches of agreements, failure to deliver services, or disagreements over contract terms.
Shareholder & Director Disputes
Conflicts between business partners, minority shareholder rights, or governance issues.
Debt Recovery & Insolvency
Pursuing unpaid debts, handling corporate insolvency, or defending against unfair claims.
Employment & Business Torts
Unfair competition, misrepresentation, or breaches of fiduciary duty.
These disputes often involve complex legal and financial considerations, requiring a strategic approach to protect business interests.
What is Civil Litigation?
Civil litigation refers to legal disputes between individuals or entities that do not involve business matters. These cases typically arise when one party seeks compensation, damages, or a legal remedy for a personal or financial loss.
Common types of civil litigation include:
Property Disputes
Conflicts over land ownership, tenancy rights, or boundary disagreements.
Personal Injury Claims
Cases involving negligence, medical malpractice, or workplace accidents.
Defamation Cases
Legal action against false statements that harm an individual’s reputation.
Family Law Disputes
Divorce proceedings, child custody battles, and inheritance conflicts.
How Civil Litigation Differs from Commercial Litigation
While commercial litigation focuses on business-related disputes, civil litigation deals with personal or private legal matters. The key differences include:
| Stage | Key Milestones | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
|
Parties Involved |
Individuals, families, or private entities |
Businesses, corporations, shareholders |
|
Common Issues |
Property, injury, defamation, family disputes |
Contract breaches, shareholder conflicts, business torts |
|
Legal Focus |
Personal rights & remedies |
Corporate rights & financial interestssssssss |
|
Resolution Methods |
Mediation, court trials |
Arbitration, negotiation, litigation |
Each type of litigation requires a tailored legal strategy. Our experienced lawyers handle both civil and commercial disputes with a results-driven approach.
Key Differences & Overlaps
While commercial and civil litigation have distinct characteristics, there are instances where they overlap. Below is a comparison highlighting their key differences and commonalities.
Commercial vs. Civil Litigation
| Stage | Key Milestones | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
|
Parties Involved |
Businesses, corporations, shareholders, directors |
Individuals, families, private entities |
|
Common Issues |
Contract breaches, shareholder conflicts, corporate fraud, insolvency |
Property disputes, defamation, personal injury, family law matters |
|
Legal Focus |
Business rights, financial interests, regulatory compliance |
Corporate rights & financial interests |
|
Complexity |
Often involves intricate financial or contractual issues |
Can range from simple disputes to complex personal claims |
|
Resolution Methods |
Negotiation, arbitration, litigation |
Mediation, settlement, court trials |
|
Court Jurisdiction |
Usually handled by commercial courts or arbitration panels |
Typically falls under civil courts |
|
Overlap Examples |
A business dispute over property ownership |
A shareholder suing for personal damages |
Where They Overlap: Some cases involve both civil and commercial elements—for example, a dispute between business partners may involve both contractual (commercial) and defamation (civil) claims.
When Do You Need a Litigation Lawyer?
Legal disputes can arise unexpectedly and knowing when to engage a litigation lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your rights and interests.
Whether you’re dealing with a business conflict or a personal legal issue, early legal intervention can prevent costly mistakes and strengthen your position.
Our Expertise in Litigation
At Silvester Legal, we specialise in navigating complex litigation matters with a results-driven approach.
Our team of experienced litigation lawyers has successfully represented businesses, shareholders, and individuals in high-stakes disputes, ensuring strategic and effective resolutions.
Specialisation in Shareholder & Minority Rights Disputes
We have built a strong reputation in Shareholder and Minority Rights Disputes, assisting business owners and stakeholders in protecting their interests. Our expertise includes:
✔️ Unfair Prejudice & Oppression Claims – Representing minority shareholders in cases where their rights have been compromised.
✔️ Breach of Director’s Duties – Advising on legal action against misconduct or mismanagement.
✔️ Deadlock & Business Dissolution – Resolving conflicts between equal shareholders or business partners.
✔️ Shareholder Agreements & Buyouts – Structuring fair exit strategies and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Proven Track Record in Complex Litigation Cases
We handle a broad range of litigation matters, including:
Contractual Dispute
Resolving breaches, misrepresentations, and commercial conflicts.
Business Torts & Fraud
Protecting clients from fraudulent transactions and corporate wrongdoing.
Defamation & Reputation Management
Legal action against false statements harming business or personal reputation.
Professional Negligence
Representing clients in claims against professionals who fail in their duty of care.
Notable Case Studies & Client Testimonials
Our clients trust us to deliver practical solutions and strong legal advocacy.
Case Study: Silvester Legal wins appeal, secures over S$2.4 million for client
Client Testimonial
"Silvester Legal provided clear guidance and a solid strategy. Their expertise in shareholder disputes was invaluable in resolving my case efficiently."
“Professional and expert advice by Walter Silvester with good knowledge. The firm gives good customer service too.”
FAQs on Litigation Lawyers & Civil Litigation
Navigating a legal dispute can be overwhelming, and we understand that clients often have concerns before engaging a litigation lawyer.
Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify the process.
It’s best to consult a litigation lawyer as soon as a dispute arises.
Early legal advice can prevent costly mistakes, strengthen your position, and increase the chances of a favourable outcome.
Legal fees vary depending on the complexity of the case, the time required, and the lawyer’s expertise.
We offer transparent fee structures, including fixed fees for specific matters, hourly rates, or retainer agreements. A consultation will help determine the best approach for your case.
The duration depends on the nature of the dispute. Some cases can be resolved through settlement or mediation within weeks, while court trials may take several months or even years.
Our team ensures that each case is handled efficiently to achieve the best possible outcome.
The litigation process typically includes:
✔️ Pre-Trial – Case assessment, gathering evidence, negotiation, and pre-trial motions.
✔️ Trial – Presenting arguments in court before a judge.
✔️ Post-Trial – Enforcement of court orders or handling appeals if necessary.
Yes. Many disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration.
Litigation is typically the last resort when other methods fail. We always explore cost-effective resolution options before proceeding to court.
If a judgment is not in your favour, we will assess appeal options or alternative strategies to mitigate losses.
Understanding your legal rights and next steps is crucial, and we provide comprehensive guidance post-trial.
Simply contact us for an initial consultation.
We’ll review your case, discuss possible legal strategies, and provide a clear roadmap tailored to your situation.
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