Skip to content

Resources

Court Process & Trial

What to expect from Singapore’s criminal court process — from first mention and pre-trial to trial, evidence and verdict, explained step by step.

For most people, the criminal court process is unfamiliar and stressful. Knowing the sequence — from the first mention, through pre-trial conferences, to a trial and verdict — removes much of the uncertainty and helps you prepare properly with your lawyer.

The guides here set out what happens at each stage in Singapore's criminal courts: how charges are read, how the prosecution and defence present their cases, how evidence and witnesses are handled, and how a court reaches its decision. We also explain the choices an accused person faces along the way, such as whether to claim trial or plead guilty. If you have a court date, use these guides to understand what lies ahead, and speak to a criminal lawyer about your options.