Read: 151
AspectLaw January 14, 2022
While the need for a criminal law firm might not often arise unless you or someone close to you has been accused of a crime, criminal proceedings can be complex and arduous processes. demystify criminal law by outlining the different stages involved in the legal process following the commission of an offense in Singapore.
Overview of Criminal Law
Criminal law encompasses statutes that outline offenses such as theft, extortion, assault, and grievous hurt. The Penal Code is fundamental in this area, establishing what constitutes a crime under Singaporean law and detling potential penalties for each wrongdoing.
A criminal lawyer plays the role of defing accused individuals who face criminal charges brought forth by the government, often referred to as the prosecution. They are critical in ensuring due process, presenting an accused's defense, and advocating for their legal rights.
Navigating Criminal Proceedings in Singapore
The sequence of events typically unfolds as follows:
Criminal charges can be brought agnst someone through methods including arrest, summons issuance, or court notices that require the accused to appear before a judge. If an individual reports a crime and is not directly affiliated with law enforcement, they may prompt police investigation by detling their complnt. Upon finding sufficient evidence, the matter is referred to a Magistrate's Court.
In cases of police-initiated arrests, an officer first verifies the existence of probable cause that an offense has occurred before bringing the suspect into custody. The accused must appear in court within 48 hours following arrest.
If you're facing charges or are arrested for suspected criminal activity, seeking legal counsel from a competent lawyer becomes imperative.
Upon being called to court, an individual can plead either guilty or not guilty to the presented charges. If a plea of guilt is made, it may lead to a speedy resolution, including sentencing, on the same day or in subsequent meetings deping on scheduling logistics.
If the accused decides agnst pleading guilty, further steps such as a pre-trial conference and court management system will follow, facilitating negotiation, evidence exchange, and assessment of case strengths.
The m here is to update the court on the progress of the proceedings and determine if the case is ready for trial or requires additional time for investigation. The accused must collaborate with their lawyer in gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and formulating arguments that may influence sentencing.
Once all necessary preparations are complete, a criminal trial unfolds before a judge's tribunal. The prosecution presents its case first by detling the allegations and highlighting key issues to the court. This is followed by calling upon their witnesses for testimony.
The defense then has an opportunity to contest the charges through presenting its own evidence and questioning of the prosecution’s witnesses. Cross-examination may also occur in this stage, allowing both sides to challenge each other's testimonies.
In the event that the judge finds sufficient grounds for conviction based on the presented evidence, a verdict will be delivered. The accused is then given a chance to seek a more lenient sentence during the mitigation phase.
Upon concluding all legal proceedings with the final judgment, any party may appeal if they believe there has been an error in law or fact or that the imposed sentence was disproportionate.
Role of Legal Counsel
Criminal lawyers specialize in navigating the intricacies of criminal procedures and the legal system. Their expertise ds in guiding you through each stage of and potentially securing a favorable outcome, whether it be acquittal or mitigation of charges.
Aspect Law Chambers LLC offers a team of experienced attorneys who specialize in both family law and criminal law. Our firm is equipped to provide comprehensive legal advice tlored to individual needs. Should you require further information or consultation on any legal matter, please contact us today.
Aspect Law Chambers LLC January 14, 2022
This article is reproduced from: https://aspectlaw.sg/understanding-criminal-proceedings-in-singapore/
Please indicate when reprinting from: https://www.xe74.com/Criminal_Law_Firm/Criminal_Proceedings_Singapore_Law.html
Understanding Criminal Proceedings in Singapore Legal Process for Criminal Offenses Role of a Criminal Lawyer in Singapore Criminal Law and Penal Code Overview Stages of Criminal Court Proceedings Guilty Plea vs Non Guilty Plea Strategies