Singapore is a lovely country to visit, with numerous historical sites and other interesting attractions. However, the nation also has laws that can seem very foreign to some visitors. Because of the differences in laws, being accused of a crime while living in or visiting Singapore can be intimidating and scary.
Big Legal Differences
The crimes punishable under Singapore’s laws versus those punishable in other nations vary widely. There are also significant differences in the punishments themselves when compared to those in other countries. For example, Singapore is a nation with strict laws protecting modesty and upholding moral standards. Violating someone’s modesty may land a citizen with a punishment of caning – something not typically seen in many other nations.
Thankfully for tourists and foreign nationals, some of the more severe punishments in Singapore’s penal code do not apply to non-citizens. This does not mean that violating the nation’s laws will not be met with penalties, though. One of the most common reasons for violation of these laws by non-citizens is a lack of understanding of local laws.
When to Contact a Lawyer
If you or a loved one find yourself in legal trouble in Singapore, it might be best to work with a local attorney. Given the differences in laws from nation to nation, hiring legal representation from your home country may not provide you with the kind of knowledgeable and capable guidance that a defence criminal lawyer in Singapore can offer. By working with a local attorney, you can ensure an accurate understanding of the law, as well as how it applies to your individual case.
Know your rights as a foreigner in Singapore by working with an attorney who truly understands the law. While the nation’s penal code can be strict, it is also generally fair – especially if you have the right guidance to help you understand it.
