Don’t Go Through This Alone.
About Criminal Defence
What criminal cases do we handle?
- Drug-related offences
- Fraud, forgery and cheating
- Road traffic offences
- Theft
- Cybercrime under the Misuse of Computers Act
- Cases involving juveniles
- White-collar crimes, such as embezzlement and dealing with criminal proceeds
- Offences relating to molestation and prostitution
At IRB Law LLP, our solicitors meet all these standards, ensuring you receive capable and committed representation.
Guide to the Criminal Law Process
Step 1: Arrest and Investigation
Authorities gather evidence and conduct enquiries
Step 2: Charging in Court
Formal charges are brought against the accused
Step 3: Trial
Both the prosecution and defence present their arguments and evidence
Step 4: Sentencing
If found guilty, the court imposes the appropriate penalties
Why Choose Us
What to Look for When Choosing a Criminal Defence Lawyer
You can identify criminal lawyers in Singapore who can be the best fit for you by checking their practice areas and experience, reading their reviews, and then contacting them for an initial consultation.
Check Their Practice Areas and Experience
When you start searching for criminal lawyers in Singapore, check their practice areas — for example, whether a firm covers drink driving or scam cases if that’s what you’re facing.
Read Their Reviews
A law firm’s testimonials offer insights into how their lawyers manage similar cases, plus their communication and approach. A reputed firm will have multiple reviews reflecting real experience.
Find More About Their Experience
Contact lawyers directly for an initial consultation — a first-hand chance to gauge their communication and approach, and decide whether they’re the right fit for your case.
What Are the Fees for Hiring a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Singapore?
Defined scope of work
Fixed-Fee Arrangement
Typically offered for cases such as a guilty plea, where the lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for the least possible sentence.
More extensive cases
Hourly Fees
Usually applies when a case goes to trial, where the scope of work and time required is less predictable from the outset.
Our Lawyers
Our Reviews
Common Traffic Offences & Penalties in Singapore
Whether it’s drink driving, speeding, or facing licence revocation, our experienced criminal defence lawyers can guide you through your options and represent your best interests in court.
| Offence | Description | Potential Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Drink Driving | Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs | Fine (up to $10,000), imprisonment, disqualification from driving |
| Speeding | Exceeding the legal speed limit | Demerit points, fines, potential suspension of driving licence |
| Accidents | Causing injury, death, or damage | Fine, imprisonment, suspension/disqualification, civil liability |
| Driving Without Insurance | Driving without valid motor insurance | Fine (up to $1,000), disqualification, imprisonment |
| Driving Without a Valid Licence | Driving without a valid or proper licence | Fine (up to $10,000), imprisonment, disqualification from holding/obtaining licence |
| Licence Revocation | Licence revoked due to multiple offences or medical reasons | Disqualification period and requirement to reapply after a mandatory waiting period |
When Do You Need to Hire a Lawyer?
You should engage a criminal defence Lawyer as soon as you are:
- Investigated or arrested for theft
- Asked to provide a police statement or attend an interview
- Issued with a charge sheet or court summons
- Unsure whether your actions legally amount to theft or robbery
- Concerned about the personal or professional consequences
Early legal intervention can make a decisive difference — from case withdrawal to charge reduction or lighter sentencing.”
What are the Types of Theft Cases and Their Penalties?
Accused of shop theft in Singapore? Let our expert criminal defence solicitors protect your rights and secure the best outcome.
| Type of Theft | Description | Maximum Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Shop Theft | Stealing items from a retail or commercial premises | Up to 3 years' imprisonment and/or fine (Penal Code, Section 379) |
| Snatch Theft | Forcefully taking property from a person (e.g. phones, handbags) | 1 to 7 years' imprisonment and caning |
| Theft in Dwelling | Theft occurring within a residential property | Up to 7 years' imprisonment and fine |
| Theft as a Servant | Theft committed by an employee against their employer | Up to 7 years' imprisonment and fine |
| Robbery | Theft involving use or threat of violence | Minimum 3 years’ imprisonment and 6 strokes of the cane (Section 392) |
| Aggravated Robbery | Robbery using a deadly weapon or causing grievous hurt | 5 to 20 years' imprisonment and caning (Section 397) |
Do I Need a Lawyer?
Not always – but it may help.
For minor offences with a composition fine, you can often resolve the matter without legal help.
You should consult a lawyer if:
- The offence is serious or complex
- You’re unsure about the consequences
- A Warrant of Arrest has been issued
- You want to reduce penalties or fight the charge
A traffic lawyer can guide your plea, prepare your defence or mitigation, and represent you in court.
Early advice can greatly impact your outcome.”
Frequently Asked Questions
General
Who are the criminal lawyers at IRB Law LLP?
How does IRB Law LLP build a strong defence?
- We craft tailored defence strategies based on each client’s unique circumstances.
- We examine and challenge the prosecution’s evidence, identifying any weaknesses.
- Where appropriate, they negotiate to have charges or penalties reduced.
- We offer legal advice and provide emotional support throughout the process.
When should I seek legal advice?
Traffic Offences
How Can I Check If I’ve Been Charged With a Traffic Offence?
You can verify if you’ve been charged or summoned for a traffic-related offence via the Singapore Police Force’s e-service portal.
👉 Check Your Offence Status via SPF E-Service
If you’re unsure or unable to understand what the charge means, contact us. We’ll help clarify your status and next steps.
Theft
What’s the Difference Between Theft and Robbery?
It’s important to understand this legal distinction:
Theft is the dishonest taking of someone else’s property without violence.
Robbery involves theft with violence or threat of violence.
👉 Robbery is treated far more severely, with mandatory caning and longer prison terms under Singapore law.
General Disclaimer
The criminal defence legal services provided are offered strictly in accordance with the laws of Singapore, including the Penal Code 1871, the Criminal Procedure Code 2010 (CPC), and other applicable statutes. All services are subject to professional obligations and ethical standards prescribed by the Legal Profession Act 1966 and the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct) Rules 2015.