Have you just come across the term “stern warning” but you are not sure what it means? Are you wondering if a stern warning is applicable to your case? This article will address the 4 things to know about receiving a stern warning in Singapore.
- What is a stern warning?
A stern warning is taken at its literal meaning – a warning issued to the accused in lieu of prosecution for committing the offence and to requires him or her to stay crime-free.
There are two categories of warning: (a) conditional stern warning; and (b) unconditional stern warning. Conditional warnings have conditions attached to the warning whilst unconditional stern warnings do not. Where the accused breaches the condition(s) of his or her conditional warning, they may be prosecuted for the original offences in addition to the fresh offences.
- What instances are stern warnings issued?
In most cases, stern warnings are generally received by first timer offenders. That being said, there is no hard and fast rule on when stern warnings are issued.
- What happens after a stern warning is issued?
In cases where a conditional stern warning is given, the accused may be prosecuted if the conditions attached to the warning are breached. The accused will only be acquitted when the conditions of the warning have been adhered to.
On the other hand, when an unconditional stern warning is issued, the accused is effectively acquitted. This means that the Prosecutor will not be allowed to proceed the charge against the accused thereafter.
- Does stern warning leave a criminal record?
Receiving a stern warning (or a compliance to the conditions of conditional warning) is a discharge amounting to acquittal. This means that the accused is not convicted and would not have a criminal record for the offence.
Consult a criminal lawyer
If you are still pondering if a stern warning is applicable to your case, please do not hesitate to contact us and we would be happy to see what we can do for you!
