Established on 15 March 1995, Sivananthan Advocates & Solicitors has built a criminal law practice grounded in experience, focus, and professional integrity.

Originally formed as a boutique litigation-based firm, the Firm redefined its practice in 2009 to focus exclusively on criminal law — becoming one of the first firms in Malaysia to do so. This singular focus allows the Firm to remain closely attuned to the developments and realities of criminal investigations, prosecutions, and court proceedings.

Under the leadership of its founding partner, Datuk N. Sivananthan, the Firm has grown organically into a respected criminal boutique practice. Its work spans advisory matters, trials, and appeals, with regular involvement in serious and complex cases across all levels of the Malaysian courts.

The Firm’s criminal practice is not confined to litigation alone. It is frequently engaged at the earliest stages of criminal matters, including during investigations and for advisory purposes.

This may involve providing strategic advice, preparing representations, and engaging with investigating or prosecuting authorities on matters of law, evidence, and procedure. Where proceedings are instituted, the Firm continues to act through trial and, where necessary, at the appellate stage.

Criminal law is often encountered at moments of uncertainty and stress. The Firm approaches its work with an appreciation of the pressures faced by clients navigating unfamiliar territory or making important decisions under pressure.

Its focus remains on sound legal advice, measured advocacy, and steady guidance, delivered with professionalism, discretion, and care.

Involvement in a criminal matter is often overwhelming, unfamiliar, and deeply personal. Clients may be navigating investigations, proceedings, or critical decisions under significant pressure.

The Firm’s role is not only to represent clients in court, but also to guide them through the process — from the earliest stages of an investigation, through proceedings before the courts, and, where appropriate, in engagements with enforcement and regulatory authorities.

We believe that clear advice, careful strategy, and steady support make a meaningful difference, especially when the stakes are high.

The Firm assists clients in the following ways, among others:

Early Advice & Guidance
Providing legal advice at the investigation or pre-charge stage, helping clients understand their position, options, and risks.

Engagement with Authorities
Preparing representations and engaging with investigating or prosecuting authorities on matters of law, evidence, and procedure.

Court Representation
Acting for clients in criminal proceedings at all levels of the Malaysian courts, including trials and appellate proceedings.

Ongoing Support
Guiding clients through each step of the process with clarity, discretion, and care.