Arrest Procedure in Singapore

In Singapore, you may be arrested without a warrant, upon police reasonably suspecting an individual of committing a crime.

A warrant may be issued to allow police to make an arrest for a normally non-arrest able offence. For example, when a police report is made about a case of “voluntarily causing hurt”, Singapore police will conduct thorough investigations first before deciding if they will be making any arrest.

Criminal lawyers at Gloria James-Civetta & Co are experienced practitioners, ready to guide and represent you in the Singapore judicial system, should you be charged with an offence.

Upon arrest, police may search the accused. Women must be searched by a female officer.

AT THE POLICE STATION ( Your Rights )

·         You will be permitted to consult a criminal lawyer while under police custody, within a reasonable time. At this stage, family may also be contacted, provided it does not hamper police with their on-going investigations.

·       Police may detain you for 48 hours without a warrant, but they can obtain a Magistrate’s order if they wish to extend custodial time in order to continue with investigations. The arresting officer must tell the Judge the reason why you should be detained for a longer period. The judge will then consider the request before making a final decision.

·       If police do not wish to further detain you, you may me released on a personal promise or be placed on police bail.Click here for comprehensive information on the Singapore Arrest procedure.

CAN I REMAIN SILENT?

The accused has the right to remain silent but, an adverse inference may be drawn and guilt may be presumed if the accused remains silent and does not state his defence.

Read more on Your Rights by Clicking here

WHEN WILL I BE CHARGED IN COURT?

You may be charged in Court only after investigations have been concluded. Investigation is necessary to decide if there is any evidence of a crime having been committed by you. Investigation times can range from weeks, to months, depending on the nature of the crime.

“If you are charged, it is imperative that you seek legal representation form a criminal lawyer”

WHAT POWERS DOES AN INVESTIGATING OFFICER HAVE?

An Investigating Officer May:

-          Order a person to attend a police station or other place for questioning and or taking of a statement

-     Record what you have to say and ask you to sign it

-      Search premises and take away things to be used as evidence

-      Seize properties which may be exhibits in a case

FOR MORE INFORMATION To THE ARREST PROCEDURE IN SINGAPORE PLEASE VISIT: WWW.SINGAPORECRIMINALLAWYER.COM

If you are arrested in Singapore or facing criminal charges against you requiring legal representation, kindly contact Gloria James-Civetta & Co on 6337-0469 for a free consultation, or email us at consult@gjclaw.com.sg