The Dispute Resolution Roadmap
Your 4-level escalation strategy from negotiation to Small Claims Tribunal, with success rates and templates.
The 4-Level Dispute Resolution Roadmap
When disputes arise, following the correct escalation path maximizes your chances of resolution while minimizing costs and time. Each level has different success rates, costs, and strategies.
Professional complaint letter with specific breaches, evidence, and clear demands. Sets foundation for all subsequent action.
Your Action:
Send formal complaint letter via email and WhatsApp. Reference specific contract clauses, attach evidence, set 7-day deadline for response.
Remember:
Always start with Level 1 and escalate only when necessary. Document everything at every level - your evidence is your power.
The Professional Complaint Letter Template
Your first formal step sets the tone for everything that follows. A professional, fact-based complaint letter shows you mean business.
Letter Structure
CASE Mediation Strategy
Critical items: 0/6
Complete contract copy
CRITICALAll payment receipts
CRITICALPhoto/video evidence organized by date
CRITICALWhatsApp correspondence printed
CRITICALTimeline of events (one page)
CRITICALCalculation of losses with supporting documents
CRITICALCompromise position prepared (usually 70-80% of claim)
Key points summary (bullet points)
Quotations for rectification work
Mediation Success Secret
Small Claims Tribunal Reality
The SCT provides access to justice without lawyers, but success requires preparation and realistic expectations about enforcement.
The Enforcement Gap
When to Consider Legal Action
- Claims exceed S$30,000 SCT limit
- Criminal fraud suspected (fake documents, identity theft)
- Multiple victims identified (potential class action)
- Contractor has substantial assets to satisfy judgment
- Clear documentary evidence of deliberate breach
- Cost-benefit analysis justifies legal fees