Singapore CJ names four new senior counsel

SINGAPORE'S Chief Justice on Monday announced the appointment of four new senior counsel (SC) at the opening of the new legal year, bringing the number of SC to 59.

They are: Lee Kim Shin, formerly a judicial commissioner of the Supreme Court; Tan Chuan Thye, a director with Stamford Law Corporation; Mavis Chionh, chief prosecutor of the financial and technology crime division in the Attorney-General's Chambers; and Edwin Tong, a partner at Allen & Gledhill LLP.

The four new SC were selected by a committee comprising Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon; Attorney-General V K Rajah, SC; Justice of Appeal Chao Hick Tin; and Justice of Appeal Andrew Phang Boon Leong.

The SC scheme was started in 1997 to recognise the best and most skilful advocates in the legal profession.

Appointment as SC is an accolade given to those who possess outstanding ability as advocates, extensive knowledge of the law and the highest professional standing, said the Singapore Academy of Law in a statement.

CJ Menon also announced that Singapore President Tony Tan has appointed Vincent Hoong Seng Lei as the registrar of the Supreme Court from April 1 or an earlier date as the CJ may designate.

Mr Hoong is taking over from Foo Chee Hock, the current registrar, who will become a judicial commissioner.