7 Best and Highly-Rated Probate Lawyers in Singapore (2023)

Why Should You Hire a Probate Lawyer?
When a loved one has passed on, the last thing you would probably want to deal with is heavy and tedious paperwork entailing probate matters like the validity of the deceased’s will or the distribution of their assets.
Probate lawyers help relieve the stress of an unfamiliar and long-winded process, handling issues like the extraction of the Grant of Probate or Grant of Letters of Administration. Typical probate services include:
- Locating and securing the assets of the deceased;
- Obtaining the date of death values and appraisals of all the deceased’s properties;
- Preparing and filing all documents required by the probate court;
- Collecting the deceased’s life insurance proceeds;
- Advising on the payment of the deceased’s outstanding debts; and
- Settling disputes among the personal representatives and beneficiaries.
To help you get a head start in your research for the best probate lawyer, here is an introduction to some of the most qualified and highly-rated probate lawyers in Singapore:
- Bhavini Shah
- Lim Chong Boon
- Mohamed Baiross
- Lee Kim Kee
- Lim Fung Peen
- Peggy Sarah Yee May Kuen
- Cherie Tan
1. Compassionate and Proactive: Bhavini Shah
Law Firm | Bhavini S Law Practice |
Address | 10 Anson Road, #14-15 International Plaza,
Singapore 079903 |
Office Hours | Monday – Friday,
Note: by appointment only |
Years of Experience | 27 |
Languages Spoken | English, Gujarati |
Positive Reviews |
126 |
As the founder of Bhavini S Law Practice, Bhavini Shah believes in proactive planning and sensible long-term solutions for all her clients and adopts an open and collaborative management approach.
Her clients rave about her tenacity and thoroughness in handling their cases, and both Bhavini and her staff are known for their empathetic natures and grand hospitality, ensuring that all clients are well-looked after.
Client Review by Elizabeth Anthony, 29 January 2020
[Bhavini] was awesome to work with, was an excellent trustworthy lawyer who upholds her promise and was willing to go the extra mile to help her clients to solve their problems primarily. A brilliant Lawyer! Given her great professional qualities, she’s still very humble and down to earth. I truly respect her for that human nature.
My husband, an Indian Citizen and a Singapore PR passed away here due to a cardiac arrest on 27 March 2018, had opened a Non Resident External (NRE) Account with Citibank Singapore. My daughter and me both Singaporeans, needed a Grant of Probate & Letters of Administration from here to claim & close the A/C. Our Singapore official documents of Marriage Certificate and Birth Certificate are invalid to the Bank. Left with no choice I needed a Lawyer.
After reading Ms Shah Bhavini’s profile and clients reviews from the website, I called and an appointment was fixed at my convenient time (6.30pm after my office hours) requested me what documents to bring along for my appointment. During my first meeting she provided a clear instruction on what to prepare and documents for a Grant of Probate & LOA. During the process Ms Shah Bhavini was very responsive via emails and phone calls in spite [of] her tight schedules. Copy of each document was emailed to me promptly. Really a people oriented efficient Lawyer.
Being a Commissioner for Oaths herself, she made me take the oaths with outside lawyers so as not to breach code of practice. All was done by e-filing with Singapore Family Court. She represented on my behalf to attend the court hearing. Explained [e]very step of the process. I can understand and sense her sincerity and helpfulness to people in need. Very professional yet humble and approachable to clients from all walks of life. Always at the forefront for clients.
In my case Ms Shah Bhavini had to take an alternative relentless effort with the Family Court Judge in Singapore to grant me the above said documents. As mine was considered an overseas asset by the Legal Team of Citibank, Chennai, India. Being an excellent resolver of local & foreign legal issues was proven by her. It saved my official trip to India.
After 5 weeks my document was ready for collection at a reasonable and affordable fees upon my convenient time again. If anyone is looking for a polite and professional Lawyer, we strongly recommend without reservation to
Ms Shah Bhavini of Bhavini S Law Practice at all times. This is the type of true Lawyer needed in our growing vibrant society. Every client is going to love the experience of working with you. All your past clients know this!
Contact Bhavini Shah for your probate matter here.
2. Steadfast With Competitive Fees: Lim Chong Boon
Law Firm | PKWA Law Practice |
Address | 480 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh #16-01 HDB Hub East Wing, Singapore 310480 |
Office Hours | Monday – Friday, 9am – 6pm |
Years of Experience | 34 |
Languages Spoken | English, Mandarin |
Positive Reviews | 43 |
Lim Chong Boon is the Head of Family Law at PKWA Law Practice and has accumulated over 30 years of experience in legal work. The costs of his services are extremely affordable, with legal fees for straightforward Grants of Probate and Letters of Administration starting from $990.
If your loved one has passed away, he will assist you to obtain a Grant of Probate or Grant of Letters of Administration so that the assets can be distributed to the rightful beneficiaries. The fees are fixed, clear and transparent and there are no hidden charges.
Client Review by MG, 28 March 2018
I am very pleased with PKWA Family Law. My matter was handled very well. It was stress free & the fees were fixed, which gave me a lot of comfort.
From the first free consultation, I could see that PKWA Law has an enormous amount of experience and ethics. I first saw Mr Lim and Ms Chow. They guided me and were very professional and knowledgeable. What I especially like is that they told me what I could get and could not get. When I wanted to take a certain approach, Mr Lim told me not to spend money unnecessar[il]y as he felt I won’t succeed. He was very frank and honest and it is refreshing to see that he charged a much lower fee instead of charging a higher fee to fight an impossible case.
The commitment of the lawyers and support staff to my case was outstanding.
Contact Lim Chong Boon for your probate matter here.
3. Analytical and Approachable: Mohamed Baiross
Law Firm | IRB Law LLP |
Address | 119 Jalan Sultan, Singapore 199007 |
Office Hours | 9.30am – 9.30pm daily
Note: Call to make an appointment before visiting the office |
Years of Experience | 15 |
Languages Spoken | English, Malay, Tamil |
Positive Reviews | 458 |
Mohamed Baiross is steadfast and well-versed in a myriad of areas of law. He is one of the founders and managing partners of IRB Law LLP and possesses an approachable and analytical attitude, offering clear and effective advice to his clients.
Prices at IRB Law LLP are competitive, with legal services for probate matters starting at $990 for both Grants of Probate and Letters of Administration, with no hidden charges.
Client Review by Xoe, 12 February 2020
Scouted around for a good price for letters of administration and probate for my family and came across the profile of Mr Baiross. The email reply was instantaneous and linked up with one of his teams. Didn’t have to wait for a few days for the appointment. A flat fee arrangement was arrived at and the process begun.
Ascertaining of assets of the estate was done quickly too and the follow up was two way and very happy at the level of support I received. The Grant was out in record time.
This is a well oiled machine of a firm. Anyone who needs help in letter of administration or probate pls proceed to IRB and ask for Mr Baiross and team. Thank you so much.
Contact Mohamed Baiross for your probate matter here.
4. Friendly and Knowledgeable: Lee Kim Kee
Law Firm | K K Lee Law Corporation |
Address | 511 Guillemard Road #03-13 Grandlink Square,
Singapore 399849 |
Office Hours | Monday – Friday, 9am – 6.15pm
Note: Saturdays and weekday evenings are by appointment only |
Years of Experience | 40 |
Languages Spoken | English, Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese |
Positive Reviews | 47 |
Lee Kim Kee is highly approachable and provides prompt and valuable assistance to her clients at reasonable rates.
She has accumulated indispensable experience in obtaining Grants of Probate and Letters of Administration for clients from various backgrounds and walks of life, resolving any case smoothly and professionally.
Client Review by Dave & Cathrin, 30 April 2018
A friend recommended us to Ms Lee (Kim Kee) as an experienced and approachable lawyer. After meeting with Ms Lee, we certainly concur with our friend’s views as she thoughtfully answered our queries. Her admin team is cordial and advised us to prepare some documents in advance which led to completion of our requirements in one visit. Highly recommended!
Contact Lee Kim Kee for your probate matter here.
5. Kind and Earnest: Lim Fung Peen
Law Firm | Yuen Law LLC |
Address | 50 South Bridge Road #03-00,
Singapore 058682 |
Office Hours | Monday – Friday, 9am – 6pm |
Years of Experience | 27 |
Languages Spoken | English, Mandarin |
Positive Reviews | 136 |
A director of Yuen Law LLC, Lim Fung Peen has over 20 years of legal experience under his belt. He is both knowledgeable and attentive, providing comprehensive and transparent help to his clients.
Amongst his positive client reviews is the repeated praise for his genuine and compassionate nature, as he leads his clients to success and closure for their matters.
Client Review by GJB, 31 October 2018
I was looking for a reliable and professional law firm to deal with a complex legal issue, Yuen Law fitted this bill perfectly. From the initial contact, Mr Lim Fung Peen approached my requests in a positive manner ensuring me that they could deal with all the legal issues from start to finish.
Mr Lim Fung Peen clearly explained what needed to be done as the matter progressed, and set a realistic timeline for completion of all the requirements. What also impressed me was the reasonable fixed fee they offered me with no hidden extras.
Dealing with the staff at Yuen Law was a pleasant experience, they were always courteous and compassionate yet professional, going above and beyond what was required to ensure all my questions were answered in a positive and timely manner. I would not hesitate in recommending Yuen Law for any legal issues as my experience was exceptional.
Contact Lim Fung Peen for your probate matter here.
6. Empathetic and Relentless: Peggy Sarah Yee May Kuen
Law Firm | PY Legal LLC |
Address | 12 Eu Tong Sen Street #06-163 The Central (SOHO 2),
Singapore 059819 |
Office Hours | Monday – Friday, 9am – 5.30pm |
Years of Experience | 35 |
Languages Spoken | English, Mandarin, Malay |
Positive Reviews | 4 |
As the founding director of PY Legal LLC, Peggy specialises in several areas of law with a particular interest and specialisation in family law and estate matters.
Possessing invaluable knowledge and skill, Peggy is empathetic and handles her clients’ matters sensitively. She values and prioritises the trust her clients have put in her, persistently working on the best solutions for them.
Client Review by Dobrin Dobrinov, 1 August 2019
You are allowed to be emotional, express your feelings and just be yourself. My job is to listen to you, be a voice of support while keeping cool and focused on standing by your side through these trying times” –> these were the words of support and encouragement which Peggy greeted me with. It was exactly what I was looking for.
Throughout my case, Peggy stood unwaveringly by my side, offering great advice and encouragement while giving me the space to recoup when needed. Her professional advice offered in calm, but encouraging, tone often brought stability throughout the tribulations of the legal case.
Her extensive professional expertise and ability to find solution[s] to any issue were very much welcome as to keep me focused on getting through. Peggy helped me to feel useful as she put me hard at work to help myself and in [a] way she made me become a part of her team. That gave me the chance to contribute towards the successful outcome of the case. I am very much satisfied with the case outcome.
And yet, her work didn’t stop there. After the court ruling Peggy and her staff worked tirelessly to get all paperwork and associated tasks processed, filed and done in time.
I will highly recommend her to anyone as it is rare to find someone to stand by your corner, be your friend and supporter in trying times.
Peggy, you did a great job!
Contact Peggy for your probate matter here.
7. Dedicated and Sensitive: Cherie Tan
Law Firm | IRB Law LLP |
Address | 42 Sam Leong Rd, Singapore 207932 |
Office Hours | 9:30am – 6:30pm [Mon-Fri].
For after office hours and weekend appointment, please text to arrange beforehand. |
Years of Experience | 8 |
Languages Spoken | English, Mandarin, Hokkien |
Positive Reviews | 94 |
A partner at IRB Law LLP, Cherie Tan is experienced in family law matters, including wills and probate. She works to help clients obtain their Grant of Probate or Grant of Letters of Representation without delay for the prompt distribution of assets, and her fees are transparent with no hidden charges.
Cherie is committed to acting for her clients to the best of her ability, demonstrating empathy and sensitivity as she assists clients during difficult periods in their lives.
Client Review by Han Cheng, 4 November 2021
Cherie is very helpful, friendly, responsible, professional with prompt reply in handling my parent’s Will and LPA. She listens to the client’s need will share potential circumstance that may happen. Her legal fees is also reasonable. I will definitely recommend and consider her should there be a need in the near future.
Thank you for your assistance, stay safe and be well.
Contact Cherie Tan for your probate matter here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a probate lawyer in Singapore?
When it comes to probate matters, legal fees vary depending on whether your probate matter is a “non-contentious” or “contentious” matter.
In non-contentious probate matters, there are no disputes over the administration of the deceased’s estate, and costs tend to range around $2,000 to $6,500. On the other hand, contentious probate matters can be far more complex, such that their fees range from $10,000 to $40,000.
Fees also depend on the value of the estate in question and will be subject to additional disbursements and taxes.
For a clearer and more detailed breakdown of probate fees, please refer to our comprehensive guide to probate fees in Singapore.
My loved one passed away without a will. Can a probate lawyer still help me?
Yes. When a person passes on without a will, they are said to have died intestate. In such situations, you are required to apply to the court for a Grant of Letter of Administration, which authorises you to administer and distribute the deceased’s estate in accordance with the Intestate Succession Act (ISA).
A probate lawyer can assist you in preparing and filing the necessary documents, simplifying the entire application process along the way during this trying period of time.
How do I go about choosing the best probate lawyer in Singapore?
To find the best probate lawyer who can cater to your situation, you may want to obtain recommendations or talk to several lawyers to understand how they will proceed with your matter. You can then ultimately decide who you are most comfortable with and who may best see to your needs.
In addition, legal fees for probate matters can vary quite a bit, so it will be beneficial if you are able to get a rough gauge on the fees for each probate lawyer’s services to determine if they are within your budget.
We also further discuss how to go about choosing the best probate lawyer in our other article.
What if I can’t afford a probate lawyer in Singapore?
If you are not able to afford a probate lawyer, do not worry as there are several legal aid schemes to help you out.
For instance, the Legal Aid Bureau under the Ministry of Law provides legal advice and assistance at greatly subsidised rates. However, this is subject to a means test and a merits test to determine your eligibility for legal aid.
—
The settling of probate matters typically involve numerous steps and documents which can be extremely taxing and draining on you, especially in such difficult circumstances.
Hence, engaging a probate lawyer can allow you to manage your loved one’s affairs as efficiently as possible and with minimal added stress, and finally obtain closure.
Alternatively, aside from the probate lawyers mentioned in this article, you may want to continue exploring your options. You may find other qualified probate lawyers in Singapore using our free Find a Lawyer service here.
- No Win No Fee: Contingency Fee Lawyers in Singapore
- What Happens If I Don’t Pay My Legal Fees?
- Lawyer Fees in Singapore
- How Do Lawyers Charge for Civil Litigation in Singapore?
- What are the Fees for Hiring a Criminal Lawyer in Singapore?
- Here's Why Lawyers Can't Just State Their Fees Up Front
- Can You Take a Loan for Legal Fees? Getting Money for Your Lawsuit
- My Lawyer is Overcharging Me, What Can I Do?
- 7 Best and Highly Rated Criminal Lawyers in Singapore (2023)
- Hire the Best Criminal Lawyer For Your Case in Singapore
- 7 Top-Rated Corporate Lawyers in Singapore (2023)
- 6 Best Debt Recovery Lawyers in Singapore (2023)
- 7 Top-Rated Wills Lawyers in Singapore (2023)
- Types of Lawyers in Singapore
- Corporate Lawyers in Singapore
- How to find a good lawyer in Singapore
- How Do I Hire a Lawyer and What Happens After That?
- What to Expect When Hiring a Lawyer to Draft a Contract
- Singapore Family Lawyers: What Do They Do and When Do I Need One?
- Singapore Probate Lawyers: Why Hire One? What Can They Do for You?
- 7 Best and Highly-Rated Probate Lawyers in Singapore (2023)
- 7 Reasons Why a Lawyer Might Not Want to Take Up Your Case