THERE are two main options for victims such as Madam Tan - sue the partners of runaway lawyer Zulkifli Amin, or appeal to the Law Society.

Lawyer Amolat Singh said: 'Suing the partners may be Madam Tan's only hope, but it could be a long and expensive affair.' If other affected clients also sue, the partners may not be able to pay back the full amount even if she wins, he said.

For example, after lawyer Lim Yee Kai absconded with clients' money in 1998, his former partner was made bankrupt when he could not pay all their creditors.

Victims can also apply to the Singapore Law Society for a grant under the Compensation Fund.

A spokesman said payouts will be made 'based on the facts of each application'.

Mr Singh said the fund may help, but the amount disbursed is limited.

But taking such action and filing her statement of affairs are important in helping her appeal to the Official Assignee (OA).

Mr Singh said: 'She must help her appeal by cooperating with the OA's office, and take an active role in trying to get her money back.'

A spokesman for the OA's office, assistant OA Moey Weng Foo, said: 'We sympathise with Madam Tan's predicament. We understand that the police and law society investigations are ongoing.

'The OA is continuing with his efforts to recover as much of the money as possible for the benefit of her creditors. At the same time, the OA will do his best to help her get discharged from her bankruptcy.'