Being investigated or charged with an offence is one of the most stressful things a person can go through. If you are looking for a criminal defence lawyer in Singapore, our role at the outset is to tell you plainly where you stand and what your options actually are.
Yeo Marini Law Corporation acts for individuals at every stage of the criminal process, from the first police interview through to trial and, where appropriate, appeal. Our lawyers work in English and Mandarin.
If you have been called in for investigation
If you have received a notice to attend at a police station or another investigating agency, you should understand the following before you go.
- You are legally obliged to answer questions put to you by an investigating officer, and it is an offence to give false information
- Your statement will be recorded and may be used in evidence
- You are entitled to consult a lawyer, though access may be delayed while investigations are ongoing
Taking advice before a statement is recorded allows you to understand your position and what is being asked of you.
Where the process goes
A criminal matter typically moves through these stages.
- Investigation. Statements are recorded, devices and documents may be seized, and bail may be offered.
- Charge and first mention. The charge is read and you indicate whether you intend to plead guilty or claim trial.
- Representations. Written representations may be made to the Prosecution seeking a reduction, amendment or withdrawal of charges, or a particular sentencing position.
- Criminal Case Disclosure or pre-trial conferences, where documents and statements are exchanged and the issues narrowed.
- Plea of guilt or trial.
- Sentencing, where mitigation is presented.
- Appeal, if there are grounds against conviction, sentence, or both.
Deciding whether to plead
This is your decision, not ours. Our job is to make sure you make it with a clear understanding of the strength of the prosecution case, the elements the Prosecution must prove, what a conviction would mean for you, and the realistic sentencing range on either path.
We will not advise you to plead guilty to something you say you did not do. Equally, we will tell you candidly when the evidence against you is strong.
Matters we act in
We have acted for clients across a range of offences, including road traffic matters, theft and dishonesty offences, offences against the person, sexual offences, and regulatory and statutory breaches involving government agencies.
We approach every matter with discretion. Criminal proceedings are public, but that does not mean your affairs need to be discussed more widely than necessary.
Sentencing and mitigation
Where a conviction follows, mitigation matters. Sentencing generally takes into account the circumstances of the offence, the circumstances of the offender, precedent, and any applicable sentencing frameworks. Antecedents, restitution, genuine remorse, medical or psychiatric factors and delay may all be relevant.
Alternatives to imprisonment exist in appropriate cases, including community-based sentences, fines and probation for younger offenders. Whether any of these are available depends entirely on the offence and the offender.
Appeals
An appeal against conviction or sentence must generally be filed within fourteen days. If sentence has been deferred, a notice of appeal can be filed during the deferment period. If you have already begun serving a short sentence, an appeal may be academic by the time it is heard, and we will tell you if that is the case rather than take instructions on a hopeless appeal.
Common questions
Should I speak to a lawyer before giving a police statement?
Taking advice before a statement is recorded allows you to understand your position and what is being asked of you. You are entitled to consult a lawyer, though access may be delayed while investigations are ongoing.
What are representations to the Prosecution?
Written representations may be made to the Prosecution seeking a reduction, amendment or withdrawal of charges, or a particular sentencing position. Whether representations are appropriate, and what they should say, depends on the charge and the evidence.
How long do I have to appeal?
An appeal against conviction or sentence must generally be filed within fourteen days. If sentence has been deferred, a notice of appeal can be filed during the deferment period.
Do I still need a lawyer if I intend to plead guilty?
There is still work to be done. A defence lawyer can assist with representations to the Prosecution, advise on the likely sentencing position, and prepare mitigation by reference to sentencing principles and precedents. A decision to plead guilty does not remove the need for those steps.
Speaking to us
Nothing on this page is legal advice for your situation, and contacting us does not by itself create a solicitor and client relationship. If you are under investigation or have been charged, you can contact us by telephone, email or WhatsApp. You may also wish to read about our other practice areas or meet our team.