Our Founder,​ Harry Elias SC​

In 1985, while serving as President of the Law Society, Mr Elias spearheaded the establishment of CLAS. He secured a donation from a wealthy individual and sent out a letter to law firms seeking volunteer lawyers - receiving over 200 names, a remarkable number given there were only about 600 lawyers in Singapore at the time. He was inspired to act after reading figures on the number of low-income Singaporeans and took on the scheme's first case, securing the dismissal of charges against a woman accused of stealing milk for her baby. He enlisted numerous lawyers and corporate sponsors to contribute time and money to CLAS

His vision and efforts helped lay the foundation for pro bono criminal defence work in Singapore. Over a career spanning more than five decades, Mr Elias was widely regarded as one of Singapore's foremost trial lawyers - a formidable advocate in the courtroom and a compassionate champion for the underprivileged. Clients and peers described him as incisive, principled, and deeply committed to justice. The Singapore Straits Times, our national paper, remembered him as a "legal eagle with a soft spot for the needy" highlighting both his courtroom prowess and his humanity and generosity. He was known to quietly decline fees from those in need, accepting instead simple tokens of gratitude.

In 1997, he was appointed Senior Counsel, among the first 12 lawyers to receive the honour.

Mr Elias passed away on 26 August 2020 at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, service, and unwavering commitment to the law. He also left an enduring culture within the Firm - one that champions access to justice through pro bono work, and upholds integrity as a guiding principle in always doing right by our clients.