What a careful legal practice can offer
We do not try to be everything to every client. We concentrate on pension matters, and within that area we work with thoroughness and without haste.
Back to HomeWhat sets the practice apart
Focused specialism
We work in pension law only. This concentration means we understand the details that a general practice might overlook.
Written, readable reports
Our assessments are written for clients, not colleagues. Plain language is a discipline, not an afterthought.
Stated fees
Fees are set out in writing before any work begins and do not change without agreement. There are no billing surprises.
Named solicitor throughout
Every matter is handled by one named solicitor from start to finish. You will not be passed between advisers.
Work done at your pace
We do not push clients toward decisions. The right pace is the pace that produces a good result.
Full confidentiality
All client information is handled under the professional rules of the Law Society of Singapore, without exception.
Many years in pension and CPF law
The solicitors at Bumi Advocates have concentrated on pension and CPF matters for the greater part of their careers. This is not a service we offer alongside conveyancing or criminal work. It is the thing we do, and we understand it in depth — including the applicable legislation, the operational practices of the relevant bodies, and the points at which errors commonly arise in recalculations.
Depth of knowledge in a specific field allows us to read a pension statement or a recalculation workings document and identify quickly what is significant. This saves time for the client and reduces the cost of the work.
A clear method, followed consistently
We follow the same steps in every matter: we gather the relevant documents, we review them carefully, we give the client a clear written summary of what we have found, and we then discuss what — if anything — should be done next. We do not give opinions before we have read the papers.
This method is deliberate. It ensures that our assessments are based on the actual position, not on assumptions, and it gives the client something in writing that they can refer to later.
Attention to the client's situation, not just the legal question
Pension matters often arise at a point in a person's life when they have other things to manage alongside the legal question. We are aware of this, and we try to work in a way that does not add unnecessary difficulty. Appointments are at the client's convenience; family members are welcome when the matter affects them; and we explain things as many times as necessary.
We do not assume that clients understand legal terminology, and we do not reward prior knowledge with better service.
Fees that reflect the work, not the uncertainty
Our fixed-fee services — the Pension Stratum Review at SGD 200 and the Long Settlement Planning at SGD 350 — are priced to reflect the actual work involved, not an estimate with padding for contingencies. The recalculation representation is handled at SGD 495, with a cost review at each significant stage.
Clients tell us they find the fixed fees useful not only for budgeting but for peace of mind. When the scope of a matter is clear, the fee should be clear too.
Outcomes that are built on thorough preparation
We do not offer performance commitments, because pension law does not always produce the outcome a client might hope for. What we do offer is a thorough reading of the position, an honest assessment of the prospects, and careful work if the matter proceeds. Clients who have come to us after an unsatisfactory outcome elsewhere often note that a clearer picture of the position — even when it is not an entirely favourable one — is itself a significant benefit.
How we differ from a general practice
| Feature | Typical General Practice | Bumi Advocates |
|---|---|---|
| Pension and CPF specialism | ||
| Fixed-fee services | ||
| Named solicitor throughout | ||
| Plain language written reports | ||
| Family members welcome at sittings | ||
| Cost reviewed at each major stage | ||
| CPF and pension document review | Sometimes |
Things we do that are not common elsewhere
The Stratigraphy Format
Our pension reviews are delivered in what we call a stratigraphy — an ordered written description of every layer of a client's retirement holdings, from CPF foundation accounts upwards. Most clients have never seen all of their pension and retirement assets in one document before. The stratigraphy provides exactly that.
The Bound Settlement Folder
Our Long Settlement Planning service delivers the will, lasting power of attorney, and CPF nominations as a single bound folder. Clients receive one document that brings their affairs together, rather than a collection of separate papers held in different places.
Stage-by-Stage Cost Review
For recalculation representation, we review the cost picture with the client at each significant stage before proceeding. The client retains full control of whether to continue, and no expenditure is incurred without their informed agreement.
Response Within One Working Day
We return all enquiries within one working day. For a small firm handling pension questions, this is a deliberate commitment, not a casual promise. Clients who are uncertain about their position should not be kept waiting for a response.
Memberships and professional standing
Law Society of Singapore
Singapore Legal Aid Bureau Panel
STEP — Trusts & Estates
PDPA (Singapore) Data Protection
Consider whether we may be right for your matter
An initial enquiry carries no commitment. We will tell you honestly whether what you are dealing with is something we can assist with.
Contact Bumi Advocates