Harassed over an old case

A consumer received a letter from a lawyer acting for a motor workshop for a motor accident that occurred more than 6 years ago. The consumer was not clear about the validity of the case and sought my advice.

I advised the consumer to take the following steps:

• Ask the lawyer to state the facts of the claim clearly in writing
• To ask them to confirm that they have a valid case
• To ask them for explanation on the delay in submitting the claim
• To send the letter to me.

It seemed that lawyers can be acting in a manner to harass the public. It is quite sad that a consumer can be saddled with this type of situation in Singapore and if they get legal advice, they can be charged an unexpected large bill. They do not seem to be any agency that the consumer can turn to for help and advice. 

What has Singapore become? A place for professionals and crooks to go around to make money at the expense of the general public?

Tan Kin Lian