What we do
The work, in the association's own wording
Four constitutional objects, and the standing commitments made under them.
The Objects
The constitutional frame
(a) The independence of Counsel
To promote and defend the role and independence of Counsel for the defence.
(b) Representation in Court
To ensure that adequate legal representation by Counsel is available to all persons in Court.
(c) Knowledge and skill
To promote the acquisition of knowledge and skills of Counsel in the practice of criminal law and procedure.
(d) Development of the law
To contribute to the development of the legal profession and of the criminal law of Singapore.
In practice
Four standing commitments
Free representation in the Community Court
Free representation in the Community Court
The Community Court was established on 1 June 2006. On 30 June 2006 the association pledged its support, and on 7 July 2006 it offered to provide free legal aid to needy cases there. Members have appeared without charge for accused persons in that court since.
- Youthful offenders between 16 and 18 years old
- Offenders with mental disabilities
- Parties in neighbourhood disputes
- Cases involving family violence
The ACLS Annual Lecture
The association's standing public address, given each year on a question facing the criminal bar. It is the occasion on which the association speaks at length rather than in submissions, and members are notified of the date and speaker in advance.
The ACLS Annual Lecture
Continuing legal education
Continuing legal education
Sessions in criminal law and procedure for counsel in practice, directed at the third object: the acquisition of knowledge and skill in the conduct of a defence. Subjects follow developments in the courts and in the statutes as they arise.
Advocacy for the criminal bar
The association is asked for its view when criminal procedure changes. It takes part in the Enhanced Guidance for Plea Scheme and engages jointly with the Law Society's Criminal Practice Committee on matters affecting the criminal bar.
- The Enhanced Guidance for Plea Scheme
- Joint engagement with the Law Society's Criminal Practice Committee
- Representations on changes to criminal procedure
Advocacy for the criminal bar
Membership
For counsel practising in criminal defence
How to join, and what membership carries.
Read about membership