In a society where silence can be more convenient than truth, Eugene Singarajah Thuraisingam stands as a fearless voice for the unheard, the judged, and the forgotten. He is not just a criminal lawyer. He is a symbol of compassion wrapped in courage, someone whose career reflects the relentless pursuit of justice, especially for those on the margins of society.
Born on 10 June 1975 in Singapore, Eugene Singarajah Thuraisingam’s roots were modest, but his aspirations towered. He walked the corridors of Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) with the quiet intensity of someone who knew his destiny was tied to something greater than himself. That flame of purpose grew brighter during his time at the National University of Singapore, where he earned a Bachelor of Laws and made the Dean’s List in his final year.
But Eugene Singarajah Thuraisingam‘s story didn’t begin or end in classrooms. It bloomed in the courtroom, where his words have become instruments of liberation, justice, and reform.
Building a Legal Legacy: Eugene Thuraisingam LLP
After nearly 12 years at two of Singapore’s most prestigious law firms—Allen & Gledhill and Stamford Law Corporation—Eugene founded his own practice in 2012: Eugene Thuraisingam LLP (ET LLP).
His firm didn’t just grow—it thrived. ET LLP swiftly rose to prominence, named one of Singapore’s top two criminal law firms by The Straits Times and Statista in their 2021 rankings. With an unshakeable dedication to international arbitration, criminal defence, and commercial litigation, Eugene built more than just a law firm—he built a movement.
Through pro bono work, community outreach, and strategic legal advocacy, ET LLP made justice inclusive. In 2021, to mark the firm’s ninth anniversary, Eugene Singarajah Thuraisingam partnered with the Law Society Pro Bono Services (LSPBS) to raise SGD 100,000 in support of legal aid services for foreigners, proving that his vision for law extends far beyond boardrooms and billable hours.
Championing the Voiceless: A Defender of Human Rights
What truly sets Eugene Singarajah Thuraisingam apart is his unapologetic stance against the death penalty. In a nation known for its uncompromising laws on drugs and violent crimes, he has consistently risked professional criticism and public scrutiny to stand by what he believes is morally just.
One of his most notable cases was that of Nagaenthran Dharmalingam, a mentally challenged Malaysian man sentenced to death for drug trafficking. Eugene’s legal battle to save Nagaenthran’s life reverberated across international human rights platforms. Though ultimately unsuccessful, his tireless efforts ignited a national and global conversation about mental disability, justice, and mercy.
In the Trenches: High-Profile Cases and Legal Courage
The Woodlands Double Murder
In 2019, Eugene Singarajah Thuraisingam represented Teo Ghim Heng, charged with the brutal murders of his wife and daughter. Eugene’s defence was rooted in empathy, arguing for diminished responsibility due to Teo’s depression. Despite the courts rejecting the claim, Eugene’s integrity in defending the accused, regardless of public outrage, showcased his dedication to the law’s moral imperative: every individual deserves a fair trial.
Toa Payoh Child Abuse Case
Eugene Singarajah Thuraisingam represented Ridzuan Mega Abdul Rahman, who faced murder charges over the tragic death of his son. Though the court found him guilty of a lesser offence, Eugene’s strategic litigation and compassionate advocacy played a crucial role in shifting the judicial perspective from vengeance to understanding.
The Boh Soon Ho Case
In defending Boh Soon Ho, who strangled his girlfriend during a heated moment of emotional turmoil, Eugene argued that it was an impulsive act driven by heartbreak, not malice. While the court upheld a murder conviction, Eugene successfully avoided the death sentence, demonstrating again his prowess in pushing the boundaries of Singapore’s harsh penal policies.
More Than A Lawyer—A Relentless Humanitarian
From the Tanah Merah ferry terminal killing to the Ahmed Salim and Muhammad Salihin trials, Eugene Singarajah Thuraisingam has continuously faced public backlash for defending individuals accused of heinous crimes. Yet, he remains undeterred.
Because, to him, justice isn’t about guilt or innocence alone—it’s about humanity.
Even when the verdicts went against his clients, Eugene stood firm, ensuring their rights were protected and their stories were heard. This commitment to ethical advocacy is rare and deeply needed in today’s world.
Recognition Rooted in Integrity
In 2020, Doyles Guide named Eugene a leading criminal defence lawyer in Singapore, a recognition earned not just through courtroom victories, but through his fierce integrity, unwavering courage, and unrelenting belief in second chances.
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