‍Ms. Ng Wen Wen of Grace Law LLC continues to distinguish herself in family law, showcasing her legal acumen and unwavering dedication to her clients. Her recent success in the case of WXG v WXH [2024] SGFC 32 garnered high praise from Assistant Registrar Soh Kian Peng for her compelling written submissions. This case highlights Ms. Ng’s expertise in navigating complex legal challenges with precision and care.

1. The Case: A Marriage and Financial Disputes

The case centered on a marriage that began in 1998 and lasted over two decades, they had one son to the marriage. Unfortunately, the relationship deteriorated, and the mounting tensions ultimately led to their divorce in 2022. 

Attempts at mediation failed, and the case moved to ancillary matters, focusing primarily on financial disclosure. Representing the wife, Ms. Ng suspected the husband had not fully disclosed his assets, such as bank accounts with more than $160,000 in value. There were also suspicions that the husband had withdrawn or dissipated assets of more than $120,000 in value without the wife’s knowledge. To clarify the financial picture, Ms. Ng applied for discovery and interrogatories.

ii. Ms. Ng’s Strategic Approach

Ms. Ng’s strategic handling of the case was instrumental in its progress. She filed SUM 1012 of 2024, compelling the husband to account for the missing bank accounts and other assets. Despite the husband’s general denial, Ms. Ng argued that his response was inadequate and did not address the specifics of the wife’s claim.

In relation to obtaining discovery of the monthly statements in respect of the bank accounts, Ms Ng argued pertinently on the timing at which these accounts were supposedly closed, as claimed by the husband – they were closed over the span of a few months, in the time leading up to and shortly after entering the interim judgment. This leads to the part in the Ancillary Matters proceedings where parties undergoing divorce will have to disclose their assets in their Affidavit of Assets and Means. 

Ms Ng argued that the bank accounts are relevant and necessary to the disposal of the ancillary matters, so as to determine the full pool of matrimonial assets available for division. As such, the Court allowed the wife’s application for the husband to provide discovery of the monthly bank statement accounts. 

Ms. Ng's approach demonstrated her mastery of legal procedures and her ability to leverage the law effectively to protect her client's interests. Her success in this phase of the case was a pivotal victory for the wife and helped to set the stage for a fair resolution of financial matters.

3. Acclaimed Written Submissions

Ms. Ng’s excellence extended beyond oral advocacy into her written submissions, which the court specifically praised. Assistant Registrar Soh remarked, "Ms. Ng argued, both at the hearing and in her well-written skeletal submissions, that disclosure of these documents was relevant and necessary for the hearing of the ancillary matter."

Ms. Ng's submissions, which underscored the necessity of financial transparency, were key in securing the court's agreement to order the discovery of the husband’s bank account statements. 

This recognition from the court underscores Ms. Ng’s thorough preparation and her ability to craft compelling legal arguments. Her written work not only showcased her legal expertise but also highlighted her commitment to presenting her client's case in the best possible light.

4. Conclusion: Dedication to Client Care and A Leading Advocate in Family Law

Ms. Ng is not only a skilled advocate but also a compassionate counselor. Family law cases often involve deeply personal and emotional challenges, and Ms. Ng's ability to provide legal guidance alongside emotional support sets her apart. She combines legal knowledge with a genuine concern for her clients’ well-being, establishing herself as a standout in family law.

This blend of empathy and professionalism is a hallmark of Ms. Ng’s practice, earning her the trust and respect of her clients, and firmly establishes her reputation as a leading family law practitioner.

Actual Case Law: WXG v WXH [2024] SGFC 32