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irblaw · 22 days ago

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Experienced Criminal Law Firm in Singapore – Irblaw

In Singapore, navigating the complexities of criminal law requires expertise, precision, and dedicated legal representation. Irblaw stands out as an experienced criminal law firm in Singapore, providing clients with outstanding criminal defense services. Whether you're dealing with complex cases or simply seeking guidance on your rights, Irblaw’s seasoned team of attorneys is equipped with the knowledge and skills to protect your interests and pursue the best possible outcome.

Why Choose an Experienced Criminal Law Firm in Singapore?

The legal system in Singapore is rigorous, especially when it comes to criminal law. Entrusting your case to an experienced team can make all the difference. At Irblaw, we understand the nuances of Singapore’s legal framework, and our expertise in criminal law has helped numerous clients face their challenges confidently. Here’s why Irblaw is a top law firm in Singapore for criminal defense:

Skilled Attorneys with Specialized Knowledge

Our lawyers are specialized in criminal law, ensuring that they are always updated with the latest amendments, legal precedents, and strategies. From minor offenses to high-profile cases, Irblaw’s attorneys are prepared to handle it all.

Client-Focused Approach

Irblaw prioritizes client needs and transparency, providing clear guidance on case progress, possible outcomes, and legal options. With a client-focused approach, we build trust and confidence with each client, empowering them to make informed decisions about their legal journey.

Proven Track Record of Success

As one of the top law firms in Singapore, our case history showcases our ability to secure positive results for our clients. We have a proven record in defending clients across a spectrum of cases, from white-collar crimes to violent offenses, underscoring our dedication to justice and quality representation.

Services Offered by Irblaw – Leading Criminal Law Firm in Singapore

At Irblaw, we provide a wide range of services tailored to address various aspects of criminal law. Our experienced criminal law team offers guidance on:

White-Collar Crimes

From fraud to embezzlement, our team handles white-collar cases with care, ensuring that every client receives the defense they deserve.

Drug-Related Offenses

In Singapore, drug offenses are taken very seriously. Our lawyers are well-versed in drug-related laws and dedicated to ensuring that clients facing such charges have robust representation.

Violent Crimes and Assault

We represent clients facing charges of assault, domestic violence, and other violent crimes, providing empathetic yet firm representation to safeguard their rights.

Theft and Property Crimes

Property crimes can have severe penalties in Singapore. We work to mitigate consequences for clients charged with theft, burglary, and similar offenses.

Why Book an Appointment with Irblaw?

If you are seeking an experienced criminal law firm in Singapore, Irblaw is prepared to meet your needs with professionalism and dedication. Scheduling a consultation allows our attorneys to understand your case fully, assess your options, and map out a customized strategy to secure the best possible outcome.

By choosing Irblaw, you’re not only selecting a firm with extensive experience in criminal law but also a trusted partner in your journey toward justice. As a top law firm in Singapore, we’re here to guide you through every step of your case.

Suggested Outline for Completion:

Introduction to Irblaw and Its Commitment to Criminal Law in Singapore

A brief on Irblaw’s reputation and commitment to criminal law services.

The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Criminal Law Firm in Singapore

Benefits of expertise, knowledge of Singapore’s legal landscape, and experienced handling of complex cases.

Types of Criminal Cases Irblaw Handles

Expand on case types such as white-collar crime, drug offenses, violent crimes, and property crimes.

Irblaw’s Approach to Criminal Defense

Explain Irblaw's client-centered approach, transparency, and dedication to every case.

Why Irblaw is the Top Law Firm in Singapore for Criminal Defense

Provide testimonials or examples of successful cases if available.

Encouraging Potential Clients to Book a Consultation with Irblaw

Emphasize the benefits of a consultation and how it can help clients understand their options.

Conclusion: Entrust Your Legal Defense to Irblaw

#Top Law Firm in Singapore #criminal law firm in Singapore

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odetterwigambalawyerspc · 7 months ago

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Ontario Divorce Lawyer: Guiding You Through Separation and Divorce

It can be hard to end a marriage or get a divorce. For those of you in Ontario, a good lawyer will help you get a divorce and protect your rights.

In Ontario, an Ontario Divorce Lawyer can help you with many parts of your breakup or divorce.

Division of Property: They can help you with things like Division of Property, which is how you divide your assets and bills fairly after the divorce.

Spousal Support: Whether you can get help from your ex-spouse if you are married and need it is something that an experienced counselor can tell you. It will be looked at what you both need and how much money you make.

Child Custody and Support: People who are getting a divorce and have kids need to figure out who will take care of the kids and how much child support they will pay.

They Will Split Up as Agreed: It's better to avoid fights in the future if you have a well-written divorce plan that spells out important decisions like who will have custody of the kids, pay the other person's bills, and divide the property.

Benefits of Hiring an Ontario Divorce Lawyer:

People who work in law: It can be hard to understand the rules about getting a divorce. When you live in Ontario and want to get a divorce, you can do it right away with the help of a lawyer.

Protection of Your Rights: You can hire a lawyer to protect your rights during the divorce and split process. Do this to help make sure the outcome is fair and right.

How to Get Along with Others: They can talk to the other side and try to find a way out that works for both of you. They will go to court for you if they have to in order to protect you.

Emotional Support: getting a divorce is tough. During this tough time, lawyers you can trust can help you deal with your feelings and give you advice.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Ontario Divorce Lawyer:

Think about how the Ontario Divorce Lawyer you hire talks to you, how much they charge, and how much family law experience they have. Talk to a few experts about your case until you find one you trust and feel good about.

Getting a divorce or breaking up doesn't have to be hard. You can get through this tough time with the help of an experienced Ontario divorce lawyer.

Odette Rwigamba Lawyers

Website:- https://ottawalawfirm.com

Email:- [email protected]

Contact:- +1 613-729-5652

#Ontario Divorce Lawyer #Lawyer #Singapore #Law Firm Ottawa #Accident Lawyer Ottawa #Personal Injury Law Firm Ottawa #Will Lawyer Ottawa

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divorcefirmsingapore · 8 months ago

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Amy Lim Law Practice

Amy Lim Law Practice is a divorce law firm in Singapore that provides comprehensive legal services and consultations involving different family law matters such as divorce, child custody, and annulment. Call our experienced and compassionate divorce lawyers at 9338 5040 to schedule a free consultation today, or visit our website for more information:

#Divorce Firm #Divorce Firm Singapore #Singapore Divorce Firm #Singapore Divorce Law Firm #Divorce Law Firm Singapore

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bishoplawcorp · 8 months ago

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4 Points to Consider Before Hiring Criminal Defence Lawyer in Singapore

Are you looking for legal remedies to resolve a criminal case that you are facing in Singapore? If so, you should get in touch with the best criminal lawyer in Singapore and seek legal assistance to help you win your case. Singapore has a large number of law firms that employ skilled criminal defence attorneys with the background and expertise to handle any kind of criminal case. The top criminal defence attorney in Singapore should be consulted before you investigate a criminal case and its legal process.

The skilled and experienced lawyers in Singapore will assist you in suggesting the best strategies for winning criminal cases in order to obtain justice. The qualified attorney will also set up the paperwork required to file the criminal case in the Singaporean court and facilitate follow-up case hearings. Therefore, it is crucial that you manage any kind of criminal case with an experienced criminal lawyer in Singapore.

You should be informed of the type of criminal case you have before filing for one in Singapore. Property-related crimes, murder cases, personal crimes, public order crimes, organized crimes, financial crimes, and other categories are among the various types of criminal case categories. Thus, you must confirm that your criminal case falls under the appropriate category.

As a result, it will be simpler for you to file a criminal case in the appropriate manner and to follow up on the case with the appropriate criminal attorney who has handled cases similar to yours. To put it briefly, in order to obtain justice in Singapore for your criminal case, you must hire a criminal defence attorney.

When choosing a criminal defence lawyer in Singapore, keep the following important factors in mind.

Look for a Reputable Law Firm in Singapore

You work with a reputed law firm in Singapore to obtain a criminal defence attorney. In Singapore, there are numerous law companies with seasoned attorneys who focus on various situations such as criminal, property, divorce, adoption of children, personal injury, and so forth. So, it is best to work with a knowledgeable criminal defence attorney from one of the reputable Singaporean law firms. Make sure the law company you select has a solid track record of providing customers with trustworthy attorneys to handle their criminal cases in accordance with Singapore's criminal defence laws.

Check Experience Level

It is important to look into a criminal lawyer in Singapore's track record and experience before hiring them to handle matters involving former clients. Make sure the criminal defence attorney you select has experience winning cases for clients and is an expert in the field. An accomplished criminal attorney in Singapore can guarantee that you will prevail in court by following the proper legal procedures. Before hiring a criminal lawyer in Singapore, don't forget to inquire about his case success rate. Always seek the advice of a criminal defence attorney with a strong track record of success.

Knowledge of Criminal Activities

A Singapore criminal defence attorney with an in-depth understanding of Singapore's criminal acts is the right person to handle your criminal case. When a lawyer applies or files a case on behalf of a client, make sure they are aware of all the benefits and drawbacks of Singapore's criminal laws. All things considered, you need to select a criminal defence attorney who can manage the case in accordance with criminal acts and improve your case's legal prospects.

Charges

Don't forget to inquire about the fees that the Singaporean lawyer charges for criminal cases. It is advisable to select a criminal defence attorney who bills according to industry norms and charges a fair fee for all types of criminal cases.

Thus, before hiring any, you must determine all of the aforementioned points.

The Conclusion

Are you looking for professional legal support for criminal cases in Singapore? Consult Bishop Law, one of the top corporate law firms in Singapore, specializing in criminal defence and commercial disputes. They are on a mission to serve all members of the public with top-quality legal representation at honest and affordable rates. Hire a traffic criminal defence lawyer in Singapore from them today.

Disclaimer- The information presented here is intended solely for educational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. It is provided as legal information to help you better understand criminal defence matters. To know more, get in touch with our team today!

#best criminal lawyer in Singapore #law firm in Singapore

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prestigelegalllp · 1 year ago

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Criminal Defence Lawyer Singapore To Protecting Your Rights

Having a qualified and skilled criminal defence lawyer is critical while going through criminal expenses in Singapore. A criminal defence lawyer Singapore let you apprehend the complex legal machine, defend your rights, and combat for the excellent viable resolution to your case.

When dealing with criminal charges in Singapore, hiring a capable criminal defence attorney is essential to defensive your rights, mounting a strong defence, and safeguarding your destiny. Their understanding, knowledge of the criminal device, and commitment to their customers' best pastimes could make a widespread impact at the outcome of your case. If you locate your self in this type of scenario, do now not hesitate to are trying to find the help of a good criminal defence lawyer in Singapore to make sure that you obtain the best possible defence and illustration.

#Criminal Defense Lawyer Singapore #Criminal Law Firms Singapore

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fatehbaz · 2 years ago

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If you wanted to know more about the saga of protests and resistance against Canada’s open-pit copper mining in Panama:

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Screenshot and headline from: “Canadian firm blames Panama for closure of copper mine.” AP News. 16 December 2022.

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Headline from: “Panama: Canadian mining company First Quantum denied to expand copper exploitation area for alleged failure with environmental commitments.” Business & Human Rights Resource Centre. 26 January 2023.

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Headline from: Valentine Hilaire. “Panama won’t allow Canada’s First Quantum to expand its copper mine operations.” Reuters. 26 January 2023.

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Headline by: The Associated Press. “Panama reaches 20-year deal with Canadian copper mine.” As republished at ABC News. 8 March 2023.

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An excerpt and explanation:

In Panama, a dispute has emerged of a type that is common to countries in Central and South America: a huge transnational company has invested in the country’s resource wealth, resulting in a conflict over suitable payments to the government that draws in officials from the company’s nation of origin in defence of corporate profits. In this case, the company in question is First Quantum Minerals, a mining giant with lucrative investments across the Global South -- and the country of origin is Canada.

This summer [2022], Panamanians rose up in nationwide protests against the neoliberal status quo imposed on the country by the government of Laurentino Cortizo. Beginning on July 1, these protests brought together diverse groups including teachers, students, trade unionists, farmers, and Indigenous organizations [...]. The causes of the summer 2022 protests go back decades and help illustrate the dynamics of the current conflict between First Quantum (and their backers in Ottawa) and the Panamanian state.

Throughout the 1990s, Canada aggressively pushed for states in Central and South America to adopt neoliberal reforms that would permit more foreign investment and fewer regulations for transnational companies. [...]

Several protest movements emerged in Panama in the 2010s in opposition to the effects of free market reforms generally and the predominance of Canadian mining specifically. At the heart of these resistance movements is the Canadian-owned Cobre Panamá mine, which is the largest foreign investment in the country [...].

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Cobre Panamá was owned by the Toronto-headquartered Inmet Mining until 2013, at which point it was acquired by Vancouver-based First Quantum. In 2011, the Martinelli government attempted to limit the Indigenous Ngäbe-Buglé nation’s rights to autonomy and self-government in order to grant mining companies access to minerals on their land. Meanwhile, Martinelli repealed a law that prevented foreign governments from investing in the mining sector -- a gift to Canada’s Inmet Mining, which at the time was seeking financing from the sovereign wealth funds of Singapore and South Korea.

These moves sparked protests that continued into 2012. Martinelli responded to demands for the annulment of mining and hydroelectric concessions on Indigenous territory with violence by dispatching riot police. The police killed one protestor, injured thirty-two, and detained forty. The protestors did not budge; instead, they blocked the entrances to Cobre Panamá and another mine owned by the Canada’s Petaquilla Minerals. Eventually Martinelli relented and vowed not to approve mining projects on or near Ngäbe-Buglé lands.’

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During the 2011-2012 conflict, nobody in the Canadian government issued a single statement on the matter. When protestors took to the streets again in 2022, Ottawa released a statement that totally omitted the reasons behind the uprising.

Following the economic shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cortizo government declared that Panama’s recovery would rely on incentivizing foreign investment in the mining sector. Social movements have by and large rejected this new arrangement due to the history of corrupt collaboration between state officials and foreign companies and the weakness of environmental protections.

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For example, in April 2022 the Panama Worth More Without Mining Movement -- which arose in opposition to the Canadian-owned Cobre Panamá mine -- released a report that found over 200 “serious” breaches of environmental commitments by the project managers, including the breaking of reforestation promises, “the felling of 876 hectares… in an area of high biodiversity and international importance,” and “the discharge of waste from the tailings tank into natural bodies of water without official endorsement.”

Following the summer 2022 protests, the Cortizo government announced plans to reform the mining sector by instituting greater regulations on foreign companies. In the meantime, the Panamanian state and First Quantum were in the process of negotiating a renewed contract. Jason Simpson, CEO of Canada’s Orla Mining (which is hoping to begin extraction at its Cerro Quema gold project), said, “The biggest story in Panama is Cobre Panamá, so as the government works through their renewed contract law for First Quantum’s asset there, that’ll take priority… We’ll be patient for that to be resolved and then we hope to get working on construction in Panama.”

The negotiations for the renewal of the Cobre Panamá contract began in September 2021. The two parties agreed that First Quantum would provide Panama with between 12 and 16 percent of its gross profit, a new rate that would replace the previous two percent revenue royalty. [...]

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Much like Ottawa jumped to the defence of Centerra Gold following Kyrgyzstan’s nationalization of the Kumtor gold mine last year, the Trudeau government has taken a keen interest in Cobre Panamá and, according to the unnamed Reuters source, is actively backing the mining company’s position. Given Canada’s long history of support for neoliberal reforms and transnational investment in Central and South America, Ottawa’s support for First Quantum in these negotiations should come as no surprise.

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Headline and text by: Owen Schalk. “Ottawa backs Canadian mining giant in dispute with Panama.” Canadian Dimension. 26 December 2022. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph contractions added by me.]

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evidence-based-activism · 7 months ago

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https://www.bustle.com/p/no-woman-on-woman-sexual-harassment-is-not-a-myth-46130

Okey-dokey let's have a look at this article :)

I'm assuming this is in response to my re-blog of this post, so I'd like to start off with pointing out that my ultimate conclusion to that post was that ~90% of the experienced by women is committed by men, which suggests that (complete) separatism would result in a 90% (unprecedented and unparalleled) reduction in the amount of violence experienced by women.

The article you have linked indicates that 10% of the women experiencing workplace sexual harassment had been harassed by a female co-worker ... indicating that 90% of women experiencing workplace sexual harassment had not been harassed by a women ... supporting the assertion that complete separatism would result in a 90% reduction in the amount of violence experienced by women.

So, even if I left everything else about the article alone (spoiler: I will not be doing that) and assumed these results are accurate ... this article would still be supporting my overall point.

But this article is annoying, so ... here's why:

The "study" they are referencing, is a online, convenience sample, poll, run by cosmopolitan magazine. I sincerely, hope it's obvious why this isn't a reliable source of information. If not, look up: study sample design and the importance or random sampling and problems with online polling.

In addition to that, they didn't even report the results of this "study" accurately. For example, they claim 75% of women have been harassed by men, but the poll actually indicated that ~33% of women had been harassed and of that 33%, 75% had been harassed by a male co-worker. That gives you ~25% of all women being harassed by a male co-worker.

Then they reference a study from Singapore, completely ignoring that the study says, explicitly, "[this study] is not an attempt to examine prevalence rates, neither is it intended to be a comprehensive, exhaustive look at [workplace sexual harassment] in Singapore."

Then they link to a dead link, which, when searched on archive.org, does not say anything about what they're claiming.

Later they link to another study which states, in the abstract, that "Results showed while Millennials are quick to speak about inclusion of men as targets of sexual harassment, they did so at the cost of frankly discussing that women are targeted more often than men."

Their next article is actually pretty interesting! It examines the less common cases of sexual harassment, while still acknowledging that they are looking at the minority of cases. It's not trying to determine prevalence/incidence rates though, it's more deep-diving into the formally reported cases of this nature.

Then they try and suggest female sexual harassment may be caused "queen bee syndrome" before almost immediately pointing out that people have (rightfully!) characterized this "syndrome" as sexist.

The next relevant link talks about male-on-male sexual harassment ... anyone who didn't/doesn't think that's a thing simply needs to look at the US military!

The next link includes references to a dead link ... but the summary is essentially the same info as above.

And then finally, they discuss an article about a woman who reported her female boss for sexual harassment. Suggesting that her comments about how she felt "scared and apologetic," and explained that "the aftermath made me feel exposed and helpless." after reporting the harassment were because her boss was female, instead of because of their similar personal histories (which she knew about as a result of the inappropriate relationship formed by her boss). The writer essentially seemed wish that the the law firm they both worked at had a step between "not reporting anything" and "firing her harasser". Whether or not you agree with her, I hope we can all agree that we shouldn't be telling people how to feel/not feel about their own personal victimizations. Not having empathy for someone who's harmed you is a reasonable response, but that doesn't mean that having empathy is wrong.

So, in summary:

I am not convinced the author of this article actually read any of the sources they linked to

The prevalence of female-on-female harassment (and female-on-male harassment) is currently unknown due to a lack of generalizable studies, but is likely no more than 10% of all sexual harassment (and most likely much less, based on rates for other similar crimes)

Men still commit the majority of harassment, and obfuscating this fact is bad!

Glad we cleared that up :)

#feminism #male violence

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vanillalaw · 1 year ago

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Global Legal Partnerships: Leading International Law Firms in Singapore

Explore a world of legal sophistication with our Singapore-based international law firms. Renowned for our cross-border expertise, we specialize in navigating the intricacies of international law to meet the diverse needs of our clients.

#law firms in singapore #corporate law firm singapore #Law Firms in Singapore

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criminal-lawyer-singapore · 1 year ago

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Understanding Lawyers' Fees in Singapore: Finding the Right Legal Partner

When you're dealing with legal troubles in Singapore, it is not just many laws and policies; it is also approximately finding the right criminal assistance and understanding how lawyers charge for their offerings.

In this article, we'll discover the arena of lawyers' fees in Singapore and guide you through choosing the best regulation corporation to assist you.

Demystifying Lawyers’ Fees in Singapore:

Hourly Rates: Picture it like this: attorneys regularly price using the hour, like a taxi meter ticking away. But here's the thing – charges can range extensively, everywhere from SGD 2 hundred to SGD 600 or maybe extra per hour. It relies upon the legal professional's enjoyment and the complexity of your case.

Fixed Fees: Some regulation firms offer a hard and fast price for legal offerings. Think of it as a menu with set expenses. This method can be extraordinary as it gives you a clear concept of what you will pay prematurely. Common constant-rate offerings consist of drafting wills or handling property transactions.

Contingency Fees: Now, right here's an interesting twist. In a few instances, attorneys may fit on a contingency charge basis. It's like a partnership – they most effectively get paid if they win your case. Typically, they will take a slice of the pie, normally around 20-30% of the agreement quantity.

Retainer Agreements: Imagine having an attorney on speed dial. That's what a retainer settlement is like. You pay a set rate monthly or every year to have a lawyer ready to help you on every occasion you want a recommendation or help.

Additional Costs: Remember, attorneys' prices may not cover the whole thing. You might foot the bill for added charges like courtroom submitting charges, professional witnesses, or journey costs.

Choosing Your Legal Partner in Singapore:

Reputation: It's like checking online evaluations earlier than choosing a restaurant. Dive into customer reviews and testimonials to get a feel for the way happy clients are with the law organization's provider.

Communication: In the sector of felony topics, communication is king. Make sure the law firms in Singapore you pick out are responsive and keep you within the loop. It's like a terrific friend who listens and is familiar with your worries.

Cost Transparency: Imagine eating at a restaurant in which the menu would not show charges. Not a pleasing surprise, right? The equal applies to criminal prices. Go for a regulation firm that is open and obvious approximately their costs.

Navigating Lawyers' Fees in Singapore: Pro Tips

Navigating legal professionals' prices in Singapore can be a chunk like exploring uncharted waters. Here are some pleasant tips that will help you preserve your legal adventure clean:

Get Multiple Quotes: Just as you might get estimates from different contractors for domestic renovations, don't hesitate to ask for quotes from a couple of regulation corporations. It's like comparing expenses at special shops before creating a purchase.

Negotiate: Ever haggled for a better deal at a flea marketplace? Well, you could occasionally negotiate lawyers' prices too. If you have some options, have a pleasant chat about the value with the regulation corporation to see if there's room for flexibility.

In the end,

Criminal subjects are part of existence, and having the proper prison guide is like having a dependent friend by way of your aspect. By knowing attorneys' expenses, deciding on a suitable law company, and following these suggestions, you can hopefully navigate the felony panorama in Singapore. Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and there's continually assist available whilst you want it.

Company Name:- Criminal Lawyer Singapore

Website:- https://criminallawyer-singapore.sg/

Address:- Havelock II, 2 Havelock Road,#05-14, Singapore 059763

Email:- [email protected]

Phone No:- (+65) 9008 3740

#Lawyers' Fees in Singapore #law firms in Singapore #Criminal Lawyer Singapore #Criminal Lawyers In Singapore

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lawconnectllcsg · 1 year ago

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Singapore's Top Law Firms

Exploring the Dynamic World of Law Firms and Corporate Lawyers in Singapore by Unlocking Legal Excellence.

#lawfirm #singapore lawyers #family lawyers #cooperate lawyers in singapore #lawyers in singapore #law firms in sigapore

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southeastasianists · 1 year ago

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Acclaimed Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas described it a masterpiece of experimental architecture. Singaporeans were drawn to it for its atmosphere and the abundance of cheap Thai food. For Thais living in Singapore, it was a home away from home.

Golden Mile Complex, also known as Little Thailand, was sold in 2021 to a consortium which will redevelop the building. As it has been gazetted as a conserved building by the Urban Redevelopment Authority, its physical structure is likely to be preserved. However, the same cannot be said for its unique character. Its tenants – a mix of inexpensive Thai eateries, seedy bars and tiny shops selling Thai perishables – were given until May 2023 to move out. Now that they have dispersed, they are unlikely to return.

As an era in the building’s history ends, it is timely to look back at its history, which goes back five decades.

Building Golden Mile Complex

Officially opened on 28 January 1972, Golden Mile Complex was an urban renewal project by the government to “redevelop and rejuvenate the slum-ridden areas in the Singapore city centre”.1 In the 1960s, the site was home to squatter settlements, small-time furniture and rattan makers, and the Kampong Glam Community Centre.2

In June 1967, then Minister for Law and National Development E.W. Barker announced that the area would be one of 14 urban redevelopment projects which would be transformed – resulting in modern skyscrapers, luxury apartments, hotels and shops – to give rise to a “new look Singapore”. These projects would involve the participation of private enterprises.3

Singapura Developments won the tender for the three-acre site that would eventually host Golden Mile Complex with a proposal for a building by the architecture firm Design Partnership (now known as DP Architects), which was then helmed by William S.W. Lim, Tay Kheng Soon and Koh Seow Chuan. The three men had convinced Singapura Developments to bid for the site in May 1969, offering the unusual proposition for a single building that would integrate shops, offices and apartments. Although the concept differed sharply from the government’s original proposal for luxury apartments on the plot, Lim, Tay and another architect, Gan Eng Oon, proved their design could work with an economic feasibility study that included precisely calculated land and sale prices.4

The all-in-one design of Golden Mile Complex marked a significant shift from how city planners in Singapore then traditionally segregated areas into different zones for “live, work, play”. In fact, it embodied Lim’s vision for “megastructures” that would contain all the functions of a city within a building, which he believed to be the future of Asian cities.

“We must reject outdated planning principles that seek to segregate man’s activities into arbitrary zones, no matter how attractive it may look in ordered squares on a land use map. We must reject arbitrary standards laid down that limit the intensive use of land,” said Lim and Tay as part of an essay for the Singapore Planning and Urban Research Group that was published in Asia Magazine in 1966.5 This vision was realised in Golden Mile Complex: a concrete megastructure that became one of the earliest mixed-use developments in Singapore and Asia.6

In January 1970, Singapura Developments began marketing the property and declared that “The Golden Mile Race Is On”. All 64 apartments were snapped up within a month, and most of the offices and shops were sold by the time building works commenced in May 1970.7

The building was originally named Woh Hup Complex, after the parent company of Singapura Developments. Rising 16 storeys, the edifice was designed in the Brutalist style popular in Europe and North America from the 1950s to the 1970s.8 It was constructed in a stepped terraced design held up by two end pillars that each adorned a star logo by Singapore’s leading graphic designer William Lee.9 Such a facade maximised waterfront views for the 64 apartments and maisonette penthouses spread across the topmost seven floors.

The next six floors housed 210 offices and studios to complete the tower that was seemingly pried apart in the middle. This sheltered a residential play deck facing Beach Road on the 10th storey while letting in natural light and ventilation into the office corridors and a three-storey podium. The latter comprised 360 shops that sat atop a basement carpark for 550 vehicles.

Completing the facilities was a four-storey residential car park at one end of the building that was topped with an open-air swimming pool overlooking the former Crawford Park. All these different functions were connected by corridors, including a “street” that ran through the podium of shops. The result was an interiorised environment designed to “encourage human interaction and intensify public life”.10

A Hub of Modernity

Woh Hup Complex was part of a pioneering wave of shopping centres to open in Singapore in the early 1970s, along with People’s Park Complex in Chinatown and Tanglin Shopping Centre and Specialists’ Centre in the Orchard Road area.

Like many of the complexes built then, Woh Hup Complex was also a strata-titled development. This form of property ownership was introduced by the government in 1968 to allow individual owners to have a share of a land. It allowed property developers to quickly recoup their investment by tapping on a pool of buyers, and also enabled individuals to participate in the on-going modernisation of Singapore.11

Woh Hup Complex offered shop lots in various sizes, starting from a 144-square-foot lot for just $16,500.12 The prices were lower compared to other shopping centres because the complex was at the city centre fringe. But its developer remained bullish about its prospects. “We offer easy parking, no frayed nerves while coming up here,” said T.M. Yong, a director at Singapura Developments. “Our shop owners will most probably be able to offer goods at lower prices.”13 The earliest tenants in the complex were an eclectic mix of shoe retailers, beauty salons, photo studios, furniture suppliers, travel agents, eateries, restaurants and nightclubs.14

As one of the first buildings to offer modern office spaces in Singapore, Woh Hup Complex attracted many businesses too. Singapura Developments and its parent company Woh Hup as well as Design Partnership set up offices in the building.15 The complex also became known for its many architecture and engineering firms, including OD Architects who were conceiving the masterplan for the National University of Singapore’s Kent Ridge campus, Cardew and Rider Engineers who were working with Design Partnership on Marina Square, and several engineering firms involved in the construction of Singapore’s up-and-coming Mass Rapid Transit network.16

But a decade after the complex opened, there were complaints of interrupted water supply, faulty air-conditioning and lifts, leaking roofs, rotting ceiling boards, rubbish piling up along the corridors, and broken or missing lights.17 These were reported after Woh Hup exited the property market and sold Singapura Developments along with its properties to City Developments in 1981.18 Woh Hup Complex was then renamed Golden Mile Complex.

The Rise of “Little Thailand”

By the mid-1980s, many of the building professionals had moved their offices elsewhere and Golden Mile Complex became better known as the haunt of foreign construction workers, specifically those from Thailand.

After work, particularly on Sundays and public holidays, homesick Thai workers thronged Golden Mile Complex to drink Singha beer, catch up on news back home by reading Thai newspapers, and listen to Thai music on cassette tapes. The draw for most was the various eateries selling Thai food at reasonable prices on the ground floor. Not only did these establishments serve food just like home, they served them on tables and chairs “scattered in front of food shops” or along the corridors and the concourse – just “[like] a street corner in Haadyai or Bangkok”.19

Golden Mile Complex was also the terminal for tour buses plying the Singapore-Haadyai route operated by travel agencies located in the complex and the neighbouring Golden Mile Tower. As the Thai clientele in the complex grew, it became referred to as “Little Bangkok” and “Little Thailand”.20 The Thai community injected new life into what was then a rapidly ageing Golden Mile Complex, and attracted even more shops to serve the community. A tailor in the complex reportedly expanded from one shop to seven to sell all things Thai, while a “100% genuine Thai style” disco named Pattaya opened in 1988 on the second floor.21 There was even a 50-seat “cinema” that screened kick-boxing specials and Thai features at $3 a ticket.22

In 1986, the Straits Times reported that Golden Mile Complex “would be a ghost town but for the office workers, who appear at lunch time, and the Thais, who have made it their haunt”. Dorothy, a secretary working in an architecture firm in the complex, told the Straits Times: “Before the Thais started coming here about four years ago, the place was very dead. Now, it’s sometimes so noisy that you get a headache.” Because fights would occasionally break out, she was not a fan of the place. “For Thai food, I’d rather go to Joo Chiat,” she added.23 Her sentiments were shared by many other Singaporeans who avoided Golden Mile Complex on Sundays.

As one shopowner explained: “Our Sunday business has been hit. Some customers stay away because of the Thai character of the place.” A food stall operator added: “The Thais linger for hours, drinking beer and eating their favourite beef noodles. Sometimes, they fight among themselves over a few drinks.”24

It did not help that migrant workers and the complex were often in the news for the wrong reasons. As part of the government’s massive crackdown on illegal migrants in March 1989, 370 suspected Thai undocumented workers at Golden Mile Complex were nabbed in a single operation.25

National Icon or National Disgrace?

In 1994, Rem Koolhaas visited Singapore and marvelled at its development in his seminal essay “Singapore Songlines”. He was particularly captivated by Golden Mile Complex and People’s Park Complex, which he praised as “‘masterpieces’ of experimental architecture/urbanism”.26 On his next visit to Singapore in 2005, Koolhaas said: “These buildings were not intended to be landmarks but became landmarks. Yesterday, I went to see all the buildings again, and they are absolutely stunning, radical and amazing.”27

While Koolhaas and many in the architecture fraternity saw Golden Mile Complex as the future, most Singaporeans regarded it as a relic of the past. By the 1990s, a slew of new shopping centres had sprung up near the complex, including Raffles City, Bugis Junction, Suntec City, Millenia Walk and Marina Square. Many felt Golden Mile Complex and other strata-title malls were simply no match for these single-owner developments that could plan a more attractive retail mix to woo shoppers.28 A 1996 article in the Straits Times assessed that Golden Mile Complex was unlikely to change because of its ownership structure and should simply “fill [the] low-end gap”.29

The disconnect between Golden Mile Complex’s celebrated architecture and its decline came to a head in 2006. During a parliamentary session on 6 March, then Nominated Member of Parliament Ivan Png called it a “vertical slum”. He was particularly irked by how each individual owner had added “extensions, zinc sheets, patched floors, glass, all without any regard for other owners and without any regard for national welfare”, resulting in “a terrible eyesore and a national disgrace”.

“The appearance of Golden Mile Complex appals me whenever I drive along Nicoll Highway. It must create a terrible impression on foreign visitors arriving from the airport. How can we be a world-class city in a garden? The Golden Mile Complex is just the most extreme of how a strata-title property can deteriorate,” he said.30

This came just after Golden Mile Complex was featured in Singapore 1:1 – City, a publication showcasing significant architecture and urban design in the city-state.31 “That’s a real joke!” said Png. “Can you imagine if that thing was standing on the Singapore River between OCBC Building and UOB Centre?” He added: “It just gives me goosebumps. It’s so close to the city, yet it’s so unlike Singapore – orderly, tidy, everything neat. It’ll drag us down.”32

Not everyone agreed with his criticism. Retiree Evelyn Ong, who moved into the complex in 2005, immediately booked her 11-storey apartment after seeing the breathtaking views. She said: “Once I stepped in and saw the view, I said book, book, must book.” She bought her 1,000-square-foot apartment for about $310,000, and spent about $70,000 on renovations to make it look like a holiday resort. “I think I’m very lucky. It’s so difficult to find such a nice view. Every day, I sit here (at my balcony) and I can see the beautiful lights at night.” She agreed that more could be done to spruce up the building though.33

The local architecture fraternity pushed back against Png’s comments. In August 2006, Calvin Low, a trained architect and journalist, kickstarted a monthly series on local architecture in the Straits Times and titled his first article “Golden Mile Still Shines”.

“The architectural thesis that GMC [Golden Mile Complex] represented was revolutionary – not just for Singapore but globally, too. It stood as a concrete realisation of the architects’ vision of a futuristic city-within-a-building that offered a whole, new integrated way of living in a modern, tropical, urban Asian context,” he wrote.34

In November the same year, a collective of architects, designers and artists known as FARM launched “Save the Modern Building Series”, a lineup of talks to raise awareness of the complex and other pioneering modern buildings such as Pearl Bank Apartments.35 In November 2007, the inaugural architecture festival, Singapore ArchiFest 07 – organised by the Singapore Institute of Architects to celebrate Singapore’s built environment – featured tours of the complex conducted by architecture students from the National University of Singapore.36

A Landmark Saved, a Community Lost

In August 2018, news broke that more than 80 percent of the owners of units in the complex had agreed to put the building up for an en bloc sale at $800 million. This came hot on the heels of the sale of another modernist icon, Pearl Bank Apartments,37 just six months earlier. Heritage and architectural experts were dismayed at the news. “It will be a tragedy and a great loss to Singapore if the en-bloc sale results in the demolition and redevelopment of such an important urban landmark with such high architectural and social significance,” said heritage conservation expert Ho Weng Hin.38

Although architects and academics petitioned for Golden Mile Complex to be conserved, residents were in two minds about it. The complex’s long-time residents confessed they could no longer keep up with the building’s maintenance needs. “The problem is that it’s an old building, and when it rains, the water seeps through some of the walls. The building has water-proofing issues,” said Ponno Kalastree, who had lived and worked there since 1989. He was among those who had voted for the sale and was planning to downgrade to a Housing and Development Board flat, but admitted that he would miss the place.39

To the surprise of many, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) told the Business Times in October 2018 that they have “assessed the building to have heritage value, and is in the process of engaging the stakeholders to explore options to facilitate conservation”. “Modern architecture, dating from our recent past, is a significant aspect of our built heritage, and we have selectively conserved a number of such buildings. Where there is strong support and merits for conservation, we will work with the relevant stakeholders to facilitate the process,” said the URA. This meant that the existing building could be retained while a new block would be added next to it.40

The tender closed in January the following year without any offer, and a second tender launched just two months later with the same terms and price tag of $800 million suffered the same fate.41

Almost one year after the two failed collective sales, the URA announced in October 2020 that it was officially proposing Golden Mile Complex to be conserved in light of its historical and architectural significance.42 When it was gazetted a year later in October 2021, Golden Mile Complex became the “first modern, large-scale strata-titled development to be conserved in Singapore”.43

The owners relaunched an en bloc sale in December that year at the same price of $800 million.44 This time, the sale was successful and the complex was sold in May 2022 to a consortium comprising Far East Organization, Sino Land and Perennial Holdings. Although their bid was $100 million lower than the reserve price, the owners agreed to the sale within “a record time of 15 days”.45

At the point of publishing this essay, the new owners have yet to reveal how they plan to redevelop Golden Mile Complex, though it is unlikely that any of the former tenants will return. The battle to conserve Golden Mile Complex has, ironically, cost the community who kept it alive when others moved on to swankier new buildings. But all, however, is not lost. The redevelopment of Golden Mile Complex could serve as a model for how other similar buildings in Singapore can be conserved and enjoy a new lease of life for the future.

#Southeast Asia #Singapore #Golden Mile Complex #Architecture

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