Meet Kelvin. His journy into law was shaped not just by academic excellence, but by a deep understanding that legal practice is ultimately a business. From his early years in top firms to founding Contigo Law LLC, he has focused on efficiency, client trust, and long term sustainability.
Today, Kelvin works with clients ranging from everyday individuals to corporations and high net worth clients. His approach is grounded in making legal services accessible, practical, and aligned with real world needs, while maintaining a strong focus on discipline, prevention, and clarity.
You graduated near the top of your cohort and later trained at some of Singapore’s largest law firms. What early experience shaped the kind of lawyer you wanted to become?
A key realisation was that law firms, regardless of size, are ultimately businesses. Law school does not prepare you for that. Issues such as cost management, profitability, and efficiency are critical. I observed that many firms overhire, leading to inefficiencies and unnecessary costs.
At the same time, client management is crucial. Clients can be your strongest advocates or your biggest challenges. These early experiences shaped my focus on cost discipline, efficiency, and strong client relationships, which continue to guide my practice today.
What inspired you to found Contigo Law LLC and build your own practice?
It came down to wanting autonomy. Working in large organisations often means rigid structures, limited flexibility, and bureaucracy. I wanted the freedom to make decisions, manage pricing, and build a practice aligned with my values.
Running my own firm allows me to operate with greater flexibility and focus on what truly matters to both my clients and myself.
Your clients range from everyday individuals to high net worth clients and corporations. How does representing such different clients shape your perspective on justice?
It reinforces the importance of access to justice. Legal services are often perceived as accessible only to those with financial means, but that should not be the case. We aim to bridge that gap by supporting both corporations and individuals.
Whether it is acting for a large company or assisting someone with a probate matter or divorce, the need for proper legal representation is just as important. The more you see, the more you understand how essential legal support is in everyday life.
I used to think success was about working long hours. But productivity matters more than time spent. You need balance to sustain performance over the long term.
You have appeared at all levels of court and in international arbitration. How does strategy differ between arbitration and court proceedings?
Arbitration offers more flexibility and allows for more creative strategies. Court proceedings, on the other hand, are more structured and time sensitive, with stricter rules and timelines. This naturally affects how you approach each case.
What are some common legal mistakes businesses make that later turn into expensive disputes?
The biggest mistake is using poorly drafted or DIY contracts. Many businesses try to save costs by using templates, but this often leads to major issues later.
A properly drafted contract may cost a few thousand dollars, but it can prevent disputes that cost tens of thousands. Prevention is always better than cure.
What belief did you once have about success that you later realised was wrong?
I used to think success was about working long hours. But productivity matters more than time spent. You need balance to sustain performance over the long term.
Success is about building something sustainable, having time for family, and maintaining strong client relationships while continuing to grow.
What is your vision for Singapore in the next five years?
I hope Singapore continues to provide opportunities across all segments of society. Everyone has different strengths, whether intellectual, emotional, or otherwise.
A strong society allows individuals to maximise their potential and contribute meaningfully.
If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be and why?
As a lawyer, I would want to know the truth, like what people truly think. Truth is fundamental to our work, and understanding it clearly would make a significant difference.
Connect with Kelvin: ContigoLaw, LinkedIn and Facebook.
