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Arts Resource Hub (ARH)

Dispute Resolution

Resolving Disputes in the Arts Industry

Last updated 15 August 2025

It is recommended that you and your hirer first use negotiation or mediation with an aim to achieve an amicable resolution to the dispute, should it happen. If you and your hirer are unable to resolve this amicably, you may wish to turn to the Dispute Resolution/Recourse clause in your written contract.

Primarily, there are three types of dispute resolution – Mediation, Arbitration and Litigation.

Other useful related websites and pages include Law Society Pro Bono Services’s arbitration and mediation pages, Singapore International Arbitration Centre as well as Singapore Mediation Centre.

Here are some tips and resources on how to handle disputes effectively:

Know Your Rights

  • Get familiar with basic contract laws and intellectual property rights

  • Keep detailed records of all agreements, even verbal ones (follow up with email summaries)

  • Document your work process and deliverables consistently

Prevention First

  • Use clear, written contracts for all projects (even with friends)

  • Set explicit payment terms and project milestones

  • Maintain professional communication and document all key discussions

  • Request reasonable deposits before starting work

When Issues Arise

  • Address concerns early and professionally via email

  • Maintain an objective perspective on the dispute

  • Document all attempts to resolve the dispute

  • Save all relevant communications and evidence

Resolution Channels

  1. Direct Negotiation

  • Start with a professional discussion

  • Focus on finding mutually beneficial solutions

  • Put agreements in writing

  1. Mediation Services

  • Law Society of Singapore's Arts Mediation Service

  • Singapore Mediation Centre

  • State Courts Centre for Dispute Resolution

  1. Small Claims Tribunals

  • For claims up to $20,000 (or $30,000 if both parties agree)

  • Suitable for payment disputes

  • Cost-effective option for straightforward cases

For more in-depth information on dispute resolution, refer to Chapter 4 of the Advocates for the Arts: A Legal Handbook for the Creative Industries, created by Pro Bono SG.

Emergency Contacts

  • Law Society of Singapore

  • Singapore Mediation Centre

  • CASE (Consumers Association of Singapore)

  • State Courts' Small Claims Tribunals

Remember: Prevention is better than cure - invest time in clear agreements upfront.