General Litigation
Strategic civil litigation for individuals and businesses across Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley. We represent clients at all levels of the Malaysian judiciary, from the Magistrates' Court to the Federal Court.
Measured, Strategic Civil Litigation
Litigation is rarely straightforward. Disputes are often complex, emotionally charged, and commercially significant. At Masha Sylverster & Co, we approach every contentious matter with disciplined preparation, sound legal analysis, and clear strategic direction.
Our principal lawyer, Masha Sylverster, has extensive experience in civil litigation across a broad range of disputes. Admitted to the Malaysian Bar in 2018, she has consistently delivered results-driven representation at all levels of the Malaysian courts — from subordinate courts to the Federal Court.
We believe that effective litigation begins long before the first hearing. Thorough preparation, precise pleading, and considered strategy are the foundations of successful courtroom advocacy. Our clients receive direct lawyer involvement at every stage of their matter.
Our Litigation Services
We handle a wide spectrum of civil litigation matters, providing strategic representation at every stage — from pre-litigation advisory through to trial, appeal, and enforcement.
Commercial Disputes
Breach of contract, shareholder disputes, director's duties, commercial fraud, and misrepresentation claims. We represent companies, directors, and individuals in complex commercial litigation requiring strategic legal management.
Debt Recovery & Enforcement
Recovery of outstanding debts and unpaid sums, including summary judgment applications and enforcement of court judgments. We pursue creditors' claims efficiently and decisively, including winding-up and bankruptcy proceedings where appropriate.
Injunctive Relief
Urgent applications for interim injunctions, Mareva orders (freezing injunctions), Anton Piller orders (search orders), and other prohibitory or mandatory relief. We act swiftly to protect our clients' assets and interests when time is critical.
Civil Fraud & Asset Recovery
Tracing and recovery of misappropriated assets, claims involving fraudulent misrepresentation, conspiracy, and unjust enrichment. We combine strategic litigation with asset-tracing to achieve effective recovery for our clients.
Defamation & Reputation
Actions in defamation, malicious falsehood, and reputation management. We represent both plaintiffs and defendants in defamation proceedings, providing considered advice on the risks and merits of litigation.
Negligence Claims
Civil claims arising from professional negligence, occupier's liability, and tortious wrongdoing. We assess liability, quantify loss, and pursue claims methodically to secure appropriate compensation for our clients.
Types of Disputes We Handle
Our general litigation practice covers a broad range of civil disputes, including but not limited to:
- Breach of contract and contractual disputes between businesses and individuals
- Company and shareholder disputes, including oppression and minority shareholder actions
- Claims involving civil fraud, misrepresentation, and breach of fiduciary duty
- Debt recovery and enforcement of money judgments
- Recovery of land or property, including trespass and nuisance claims
- Defamation, libel, and slander actions
- Professional negligence claims against lawyers, accountants, engineers, and other professionals
- Employment-related civil claims, including wrongful dismissal and breach of employment contracts
- Injunctions, including urgent interlocutory and ex-parte applications
- Appeals from subordinate courts and the High Court
Each matter is assessed on its individual facts and merits. We provide honest, realistic advice on the prospects of litigation and the best strategic approach — whether through negotiation, mediation, or contested proceedings.
Why Clients Choose Us for Litigation
Direct Partner Involvement
Your matter is handled directly by Masha Sylverster, the firm's principal lawyer. You will not be passed between junior associates. You receive senior-level advice and representation from start to finish.
Meticulous Preparation
We approach every hearing and every pleading with care and precision. Strong preparation is the foundation of persuasive advocacy, and we invest the time necessary to build robust cases for our clients.
Honest Assessments
We provide frank, objective advice on the merits and risks of litigation. Our clients receive realistic assessments of their position, enabling them to make informed decisions about how to proceed at every stage.
Frequently Asked Questions — Civil Litigation in Malaysia
How long does civil litigation take in Malaysia?
Duration varies by court and complexity. Straightforward claims in the Magistrates' Court may resolve within 6–12 months. High Court cases typically take 1–3 years. Complex commercial disputes can take longer. Pre-litigation negotiation or mediation can often resolve matters significantly faster.
What is a Mareva injunction and when can I apply for one?
A Mareva injunction (freezing order) is a court order preventing a defendant from disposing of or dissipating assets before or during proceedings. It is available where there is a good arguable case on the merits and a real risk that the defendant will dissipate assets. Applications can be made urgently and without notice to the other side in appropriate cases.
Can I recover legal costs if I win a civil case in Malaysia?
Generally, the court awards costs to the successful party. However, costs awarded rarely cover all legal fees incurred — the court typically awards costs on a standard basis, which represents a portion of actual fees paid. The amount depends on the prescribed scale for the relevant court and the judge's discretion.
What courts in Malaysia handle civil disputes?
Civil disputes are heard in the Magistrates' Court (claims up to RM100,000), Sessions Court (up to RM1 million), and the High Court (unlimited jurisdiction). Appeals proceed to the Court of Appeal and, with leave, to the Federal Court.
What steps should I take before starting litigation?
Before issuing proceedings, we recommend seeking legal advice on the merits and risks of your claim, exploring negotiation or mediation, and issuing a formal letter of demand. Litigation carries cost, time, and inherent uncertainty — alternative dispute resolution should be considered first where appropriate.