If you’re being wrongfully accused of a crime or are facing criminal charges, it’s only natural that you’ll want to know everything that could happen. Should these things transpire, the first thing you should do is seek advice from a dependable criminal defence lawyer in Singapore.
But while a good lawyer should be able to guide you towards the best courses of action, you’re ultimately responsible for your own defence. Make sure to ask your lawyer these key questions so that you will ave a clearer understanding and firmer control of your legal situation.
1) What Do the Charges Mean?
In addition to their legal right to counsel, all individuals arrested in Singapore need to be informed, in general terms, of the grounds for their arrest. Being arrested can be an emotional experience and the explanation of the grounds of your arrest given by the police may go well over your head. It’s important to ask your lawyer what the charges actually mean for you as well as what rights you have as a defendant.
2) What Kind of Cases Do You Specialise In?
While all duly licenced lawyers should have the basic qualifications to take on your case, not all of them will have the practical knowledge needed to effectively navigate a criminal charge. Asking this question helps you gauge both the expertise and interest your lawyer might have in satisfactorily resolving your case.
3) How Long Have You Been Practicing Singaporean Criminal Law?
Asking this can give you a good idea of the lawyer’s experience in handling cases such as yours. Moreover, their answer should give you a clue as to whether or not they might be worth the fees that they’re requesting.
One word of caution though: don’t be quick to dismiss a greener lawyer, particularly if they’re transparent and responsive to your concerns. Experienced lawyers may be good bets in general, but they aren’t always going to be better than a talented, younger barrister who feels they have something to prove.
4) What Are Your Fees?
If you’re facing a criminal charge, quibbling over the price of an adequate defence is probably the last thing you want to do. Unfortunately, there’s a lot that goes into providing solid legal services and this is often reflected in the rates that top-rated lawyers and law firms ask. If you have limited means, knowing how much a lawyer’s services cost can make a difference in getting a realistic, financially-manageable legal defence.
5) What Is My Expected Outcome?
Most lawyers may want to put a positive spin on your case, early on. After all, why would you stick with someone who can’t assure you of a good outcome where your case is concerned? Regardless, asking them this question can help you assess their confidence and give you an idea of the resources you need to successfully fight or negotiate the case.
6) Do I Have to Go to Trial?
Fortunately, plea bargains and arbitrations are options for many criminal cases in Singapore. Your lawyer may bring these up as options for lesser criminal charges, especially if they believe you have a poor chance of winning your case outright.
If your lawyer tells you that you need to go to trial, it probably means one of two things: they feel the chances of winning are good or that the consequences of admitting guilt are high. Either way, you’ll have to prepare for a potentially long and expensive ordeal.
7) How Long Will My Case Take to Resolve?
Unless your case happens to be the rare one that’s open-and-shut, it’s going to be difficult for any lawyer to give you a precise timeline. Such things as hearing schedules and the opposing counsel’s strategy are just two of the many factors that will play a role in prolonging or shortening your case.
However, if a lawyer does recommend a course of action, they should have, at least, a rough idea of the time and other resources it will take to execute their plan. If they’re reluctant to provide even a rough timetable, it could indicate a lack of experience or transparency, either of which could be a red flag.
When dealing with any serious legal challenge, criminal or otherwise, having qualified counsel at your side will be key to achieving the best possible outcomes. However, at the end of the day, it’s you—not your lawyer—who is the most responsible for your defence. Taking the time to ask your lawyer these questions ensures that you are empowered and actively engaged in your own defence, increasing the odds of a great outcome for your case. Only by proactively advocating for yourself and your own interests can you expect to achieve the best results, inside and outside of court.
