Employment law governs the relationship between employers and employees, ensuring fair treatment, workplace safety, and compliance with legal obligations.
In Singapore, employment law is primarily regulated by the Employment Act and various statutes that address wages, contracts, dismissals, workplace discrimination, and more.
Given the complexity of labor laws, Employment Law Specialists play a crucial role in advising businesses and employees on legal matters.
PD Legal LLC, a trusted law firm in Singapore, offers expert legal services in employment law, assisting clients with issues such as wrongful dismissal, contract disputes, and workplace policies.
This article provides an in-depth look at the role of employment law specialists, key areas of Singapore’s employment law, and why legal expertise is crucial for both employers and employees.
What Do Employment Law Specialists Do?
Employment law specialists are legal professionals who provide expert guidance on labor laws, employee rights, and workplace regulations. Their primary role includes:
- Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating employment contracts
- Advising on compliance with Singapore’s labor laws
- Handling workplace disputes, grievances, and unfair dismissals
- Representing clients in employment-related litigation
- Assisting with workplace discrimination and harassment cases
- Ensuring companies comply with statutory benefits and obligations
In Singapore, employment lawyers help businesses align their workplace policies with regulations while also advocating for employees who face unfair treatment.
Key Aspects of Employment Law in Singapore
#1. The Employment Act
The Employment Act (EA) is the main labor law that governs employment relationships in Singapore. However, it does not cover all employees. It applies primarily to:
- Employees under a contract of service
- Local and foreign employees, except for seafarers, domestic workers, and government employees
- Managers and executives earning up to SGD 4,500 per month
The Act provides guidance on key employment matters such as wages, working hours, leave entitlements, and termination.
#2. Employment Contracts & Rights
All employees in Singapore should have a written employment contract that outlines their rights and obligations. Employment law specialists help:
- Ensure that contracts comply with the law
- Review clauses related to termination, non-compete agreements, and dispute resolution
- Protect employees from unfair contractual terms
Common employment contract disputes involve salary disputes, bonus claims, and breaches of confidentiality clauses.
#3. Termination & Dismissal Laws
Singapore has clear regulations on termination of employment, which can occur in three ways:
a) Resignation by the Employee
Employees must serve the agreed notice period or pay compensation in lieu of notice.
b) Termination with Notice by the Employer
Employers must provide notice as per the contract or pay salary in lieu of notice.
c) Dismissal Without Notice (For Cause)
Employers can dismiss an employee without notice due to misconduct, but they must conduct a proper inquiry. Wrongful termination can lead to legal disputes.
Employment law specialists assist in wrongful dismissal cases where an employee is unfairly dismissed or not given proper compensation.
#4. Workplace Discrimination & Harassment
Although Singapore does not have an anti-discrimination law, the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices (TAFEP) prohibit workplace discrimination based on:
- Race, religion, gender, age, disability, marital status
- Pregnancy discrimination
- Retrenchment based on nationality
Employment lawyers help individuals file complaints and ensure businesses adopt fair employment practices.
Sexual harassment is also a serious issue in workplaces. Companies must establish workplace harassment policies, and victims can seek legal recourse through employment law specialists.
#5. Retrenchment & Redundancy Laws
In economic downturns, companies may lay off employees. Employers must:
- Provide fair retrenchment packages
- Follow the Tripartite Advisory on Managing Excess Manpower
- Offer support such as re-employment assistance
Failure to follow these guidelines can result in legal claims for unfair retrenchment.
#6. Employee Benefits & Leave Entitlements
Under Singapore law, employees are entitled to various statutory benefits, including:
- Annual Leave: Minimum 7 days per year (increases with service length)
- Sick Leave: Up to 14 days (with medical certificate)
- Maternity Leave: 16 weeks for Singaporean mothers
- Paternity Leave: 2 weeks for eligible fathers
- Childcare Leave: 6 days per year (for parents of children under 7)
Employment law specialists assist in cases where employers fail to grant leave entitlements or discriminate against pregnant employees.
#7. Work Injury Compensation & Workplace Safety
The Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA) ensures that employees injured at work receive medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for disabilities.
Employment law specialists help injured workers:
- File compensation claims
- Negotiate fair settlements
- Handle disputes if claims are unfairly denied
#8. Foreign Workers & Employment Pass Regulations
Singapore employs a large number of foreign workers who require:
- Work Permits (WP) for lower-skilled workers
- S Passes for mid-skilled workers
- Employment Passes (EP) for professionals
Companies must comply with:
- Quota and levy requirements for foreign hires
- Fair hiring practices (no bias against local workers)
- Proper employment contracts and benefits for foreign employees
Employment law specialists help businesses navigate immigration laws, ensuring compliance with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations.
Why Businesses Need Employment Law Specialists
Employment law in Singapore is constantly evolving, and businesses must stay compliant to avoid legal risks, disputes, and penalties. Companies rely on employment law specialists to:
- Draft legally sound employment contracts and workplace policies
- Resolve disputes over salary, termination, or unfair treatment
- Defend against wrongful dismissal claims
- Ensure compliance with MOM and TAFEP guidelines
- Conduct workplace investigations and disciplinary actions
Employment law specialists ensure that businesses follow best practices, reducing legal risks and maintaining a fair work environment.
Why Employees Need Employment Law Specialists
Employees may require legal help if they face:
- Unfair termination or retrenchment
- Discrimination or harassment at work
- Wage disputes (unpaid salaries, withheld bonuses)
- Contract disputes over non-compete clauses
Employment lawyers help employees understand their rights, file complaints, and seek fair compensation when necessary.
Conclusion
Employment law is essential in ensuring fair treatment of employees and legal compliance for businesses. Whether you are an employer seeking legal guidance on contracts, retrenchments, or compliance, or an employee facing unfair workplace practices, seeking advice from an employment law specialist is crucial.
PD Legal LLC, with its expertise in employment law, provides comprehensive legal solutions for businesses and individuals navigating Singapore’s labor laws. Understanding your rights and obligations under Singapore’s employment laws helps foster a fair and compliant workplace environment.