Our Methodology
How every engagement is structured
Each matter at Selwynford follows a consistent sequence regardless of which service is engaged. The process exists to protect the client's interests and to ensure that nothing is assumed or left unaddressed.
Where an engagement is fixed-scope, the fee is confirmed before work begins and does not change unless the scope changes — which requires a written variation agreement.
Initial consultation
We meet to understand the client's position and confirm which service is appropriate. No charge is incurred for this meeting.
Engagement letter issued
Scope, fee, and timescale confirmed in writing before any substantive work begins.
Substantive work and communication
The matter is progressed with regular updates. The client is not required to follow up on progress.
Written advice or completion
The matter concludes with a written advice letter, a completed document, or a confirmed outcome — depending on the service engaged.
Lifetime Gifting Advice
Advice concerning gifts made during a person's lifetime as part of succession planning — including the legal implications of gifts to family members, the importance of proper records, and the frameworks applicable under Malaysian law. This service does not extend to tax or financial advice, which falls outside the scope of legal practice.
A written advice letter is produced summarising the considerations relevant to the client's specific circumstances, the options available, and a clear recommendation where one can properly be made.
- Assessment of succession objectives
- Review of proposed gift arrangements
- Record-keeping guidance
- Written advice letter produced
- Typically prepared within 3–5 weeks
Fixed Fee
MYR 1,100
Digital Asset Succession
A developing area of succession planning that addresses the passing of digital assets: online accounts, digital collections, cryptocurrency holdings, and similar. The work includes advising on the applicable legal framework, preparing testamentary provisions, and providing practical guidance to enable executors to access and distribute such assets.
The legal landscape in this area continues to evolve. We discuss the current position and its practical limitations openly with clients, rather than presenting an artificially complete picture.
- Inventory and classification of digital assets
- Review of current legal framework
- Testamentary provisions drafted
- Executor access guidance prepared
- Typically completed within 4–7 weeks
Fixed Fee
MYR 1,300
Executor Support and Advice
Advisory support for appointed executors who are administering estates themselves and require access to legal advice as questions arise. Rather than engaging a solicitor for the whole administration, executors may call or meet with us when specific issues emerge: valuation questions, beneficiary communications, distribution calculations, potential claims, or any other matter requiring legal input.
Billing is on a time-based retainer. This service suits executors who are capable of managing the administration with professional backup available — and who wish to avoid the cost of a full engagement for advice they may not need at every stage.
- Access to legal advice as questions arise
- Retainer agreed at the outset
- Meetings or calls as needed
- Written confirmation of advice provided
- Flexible duration to match the administration
Time-based retainer
From MYR 820
Compare Services
Which service is right for your situation?
The three services address different stages and aspects of succession. Most clients need one; some benefit from two in sequence.
| Feature | Lifetime Gifting | Digital Succession | Executor Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written advice produced | |||
| Fixed fee | Retainer | ||
| Addresses planning for your own estate | |||
| Supports administration of an existing estate | |||
| Covers digital and cryptocurrency holdings | If relevant | ||
| Suitable for first-time executors | |||
| Typical timeframe | 3–5 weeks | 4–7 weeks | Duration of administration |
| Published fee | MYR 1,100 | MYR 1,300 | From MYR 820 |
Not sure which applies? Contact us and we will advise at no charge.
Standards
Protocols that apply across all services
Legal professional privilege
All communications are held in strict confidence. Nothing is disclosed to any third party without express written authority.
Written engagement terms
Every matter begins with a written engagement letter confirming scope, fee, and the name of the responsible solicitor.
Quality review
Substantive advice letters are reviewed by a second solicitor before they are issued to the client.
No pressure on decisions
Clients are given adequate time to consider advice. Decisions are never pressed. Where a matter requires urgent action, this is explained rather than assumed.
Begin
Arrange an initial consultation
The initial meeting is without charge or commitment. We will listen to your circumstances and advise on which service, if any, is appropriate.
Get in Touch