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Assault & Violent Offences

Singapore guides on assault, voluntarily causing hurt and grievous hurt — the Penal Code offences, penalties, common defences and the court process.

Assault and violent offences cover a wide range of conduct under Singapore's Penal Code — from voluntarily causing hurt in a moment of conflict to more serious charges involving weapons or lasting injury. How the police and courts treat a case turns on the harm caused, the intention behind it, and the circumstances in which it happened.

The guides below explain the common charges in plain English: what the prosecution has to prove, the factors that shape sentencing, the defences that may be available, and what to expect from first police contact through to court. If you or someone close to you is facing an allegation of assault, understanding the process early makes a real difference — speak to a criminal lawyer before giving any statement.