LEGAL TINGS | A PODCAST ABOUT ALL THINGS LAW AND LEGAL.

You don’t need to commit a serious crime to get arrested in Singapore.

Even getting into a fight or being accused of hurting someone can lead to an arrest — depending on how the offence is classified.

Here’s what many people don’t realise:
Some offences allow the police to arrest you immediately, without needing any court order. These include things like theft, drug use, or more serious assaults.

But for other cases, like defamation or minor scuffles, the police usually need to get a warrant first, unless they see it happening in front of them.

If you`re arrested, the police can use reasonable force to detain you. You can ask why you`re being arrested and who the officer is when it’s safe to do so. You may also be held for up to 48 hours during investigation.

You’re allowed to ask to call your family or a lawyer. But if the police think it could affect the case, they’re allowed to delay that.

And yes, you have the right to remain silent. But if you stay quiet too long, and only explain yourself later in court, the judge might not take it seriously.

If you or someone you care about has been arrested, don’t wait.
A good lawyer can protect your rights, guide the process, and help prevent things from getting worse.

Yes, you can be arrested in Singapore just for missing a court date.
Even if it’s a non-violent or “small” offence, a warrant of arrest can still be issued. And the police don’t have to give you a warning before showing up.

This isn’t just for serious crimes. It can happen if:
• You miss your court date
• You don’t pay a fine
• You’re charged with something like causing hurt or defamation

Once the warrant is issued, the police can arrest you and bring you to court, usually within 48 hours. If you’re overseas, things can get more serious. Extradition laws may apply, and in some cases, the court can freeze your assets or publish a notice.

The good news is you still have options.

You can check your warrant status online. And if you missed court for a valid reason, like a medical emergency, you might be able to cancel the warrant. But you’ll need to act quickly.

If you missed a court date, talk to a lawyer early. They can help you understand your options, apply to cancel the warrant, or guide you through a safe surrender before things get worse.

#courtdate #missed #trial #court #crime #justice #singaporelaw #criminaljustice #familylaws #legalhelp #legaltips #jonathanwong #legaltings #fyp #knowyourrights #lawyer #familylaw #lawsuit

Can you be charged in Singapore… for taking drugs legally overseas?

Yes and it happens more often than people think.

Let’s say you’re on holiday in a place where cannabis is legal. You try it. No arrests, no issues. But once you land back in Changi, the story can change.

Under Singapore’s Misuse of Drugs Act, if you`re a citizen or PR and you test positive, even if you consumed the substance legally overseas, you can still be punished here.

It’s called extraterritorial jurisdiction. That means some Singapore laws follow you even when you’re abroad.
This doesn’t just apply to drugs. Other offences like corruption, terrorism, and cybercrime fall under this too.

Random drug tests do happen at the airport. And if you fail, you could be looking at a criminal record, fines, or even jail time.

If you or someone you love is being investigated for an offence linked to overseas conduct, don’t wait.