I'm loosing my job and need a good lawyer

[SKJ]

HELP. After 11 years with my company, I'm about to loose my job as part of a retrenchement excercise.

I transferred to Singapore 5 months ago, when the company had been put in Chapter 11. I had sign a local contract prior to the Chapter 11 and at the time, I was told (but not in writing) don't worry, trust us....right. Now I stand to get nothing according to Singapore laws, while my ex-colleagues in London are about to get 1 mo salary per year work....ARGHGGG.....I want to talk to a lawyer here to see whether I have a leg to stand on, or whether I should take legal advise in the UK....

[BoardManager]

You may call me on 2266 062 and I will refer you to a lawyer here.

Board Manager

[Texan]

I just went through the most ridiculous month of my life, after a disastrous consulting experience with a Singapore based and owned company.  Basically, the didn't honor my contract.  There is not nearly as much recourse as in the West for individuals, and even if you do get a lawyer, then the deck is really stacked against you.  Unless you are going to lose a LOT of money, it won't be worth it.  The only thing you can do is get local authorities to open up an investigation into "corrupt" practices, but then again, would it be worht it?  Companies here, from what I can gather, know the law and the government are on their side in disputes, and they kind of overabuse it.  That is the sentiment I have gotten from Singaporean lawyers and government officials.  Sorry for your news, bud.  But one month's pay will not be worth all the time and money hassle.

[worthit]

The poster is talking about 1 months' pay for every year worked = 11 months' pay. I'd be getting a lawyer if I felt entitled to 11 months' pay.

[BoardManager]

It is not true that the sg.gov takes sides with privately owned companies. It is more often the case of the lonely individual (esp the expat in a foreign land) versus the bigger machinery, and the fear of incurring costs and therefore risk throwing good money after bad, that many individuals walk away quietly. These cases usually take a while to get resolved, and unless one has the means to do so - staying here without a job, money for legal fees etc -  it is often more prudent to move on.

If you have a good case, and the employment contract is clear, I think you should act. I often help individuals to sort things out by referring them to good lawyers. Many companies sneak in clauses which we often overlook or do not see the significance of, until too late. Especially when the lure of the expat life is so inviting.

[Snarky Lass]

The difference between "losing" and "loosing", and "lose" and "loose" is enormous.

Seriously, spelling aside, if you don't stick up for yourself and your rights (sure,they want you to go quietly!) then the message simply gets sent that it is ok to screw overseas workers (meaning all, not just so-called 'fat cat' expats).

You put in the time, you are entitled. The local laws, as well intentioned as they are, might not contemplate your questioning the lack of payout after years of service.

What do you have to lose (or loose)?

Good luck to you >>> we are all pulling for you

[nualum]

It sounds as if the issue has to be settled in Singapore. However, that might not be the case. Perhaps you recourse would be in the UK. That is, possibly you have some claims against your company in the UK. They sent you here. Presumably you still work for them and your service has been continuous.

Certainly, I don't know your situation or the relevant labor laws. However, I think you will have to consult attorneys competent in both Singaporean labor law and British labor law. There may be such attorneys in Singapore, or you may have to consult someone in the UK.

[SKJ]

Nualum thanks. yes I'm also consulting lawyer in UK, given that I worked there for same company for over 10 years. Without being a fatcat, 11 months salary is still a lot of money, especially when you lose your job. The truth is I don't think I have much legal ground given that I have a local contract, but I do feel I have a moral case, what ever that is worth those days.

I've found out that the singaporean law is clear... You're entitled to nothing apart from 1 month notice, though if you are a long standing employee it is up to the company's discretion, bla,bla... Qui vivra, verra.

[SKJ]

Thanks Phil. Pursuing UK direction, as I've now confirmed no point tackling Singapore law.

Cheers