Know About Criminal Proceedings in Singapore before Trial

At Gloria James-Civetta & Co, we have many years of experience in advising clients charged with criminal offences and handling criminal litigation work. We are knowledgeable about the conduct of criminal proceedings in Singapore.

In general, a criminal proceeding in Singapore is governed by the Criminal Procedure Code.

Criminal proceedings in Singapore commence with an arrest, where police officers may subject you to a search.

Under the Criminal Procedure Code, detention can only be up to a maximum of 48 hours unless a Judge in court decides that further detention is necessary. While in custody, detainees to make phone calls to family members and or their lawyers to inform them of the detention.

Investigations can last anywhere from a few days to a few months or in extreme cases, a few years. It is advisable for those under investigation to cooperate fully with the police officers. Once investigation concludes, the investigation officer will submit the case file to the Prosecution before a decision is made to proceed with a charge or otherwise.

Under the Criminal Procedure Code, one can be place on either police bail or court bail. The person providing the bail is the bailor, who must be either a Singapore citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident.

The next step under the criminal proceedings involves appearing in court for a first Mention, when one can ask for an adjournment to look for a lawyer to represent him. Alternatively, after each charge is read and explained, one may wish to plead guilty, i.e. to admit the charge.

If one pleads not guilty, a pre-trial conference will be arranged when prosecution will inform the Judge of the evidence they have as well as the witnesses they are going to call to trial. Effective defence lawyers, such as those at Gloria James-Civetta & Co, can request for a plea bargaining or CCMS to discuss the case with the prosecution.

At trial, examination of witnesses will be conducted. If the accused feels that the Prosecution has not proven the case against him, he can consult and instruct his lawyers to give a submission on no case, after which the Judge will then decide in his favour or otherwise.

Should one be dissatisfied with the verdict, he is able to lodge an appeal.

At Gloria James-Civetta & Co, we have experience in filing appeals with both the High Court as well as the Court of Appeal.

Should you have any questions or need legal representation, kindly contact Gloria James-Civetta & Co on 6337-0469 for a free consultation, or email to consult@gjclaw.com.sg