Best Domestic Violence Lawyers in Little India

About Domestic Violence Law in Little India, Singapore

Domestic Violence in Little India, Singapore, is governed by the Women’s Charter, which recognizes domestic violence as a severe and punishable crime. Domestic violence is not limited to physical abuse but also includes psychological, emotional and financial abuses. The legal system does not tolerate any form of domestic violence and provides several measures to protect the victim, including PPO (Personal Protection Order), Expedited Order and Domestic Exclusion Order.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Domestic violence cases are often complex and emotionally draining. If you are the victim, you may need to secure a legal protection order against the perpetrator. Alternatively, if you are wrongly accused of domestic violence, you may need legal counsel to defend your rights and reputation. Having a lawyer can make a big difference in understanding local laws, building a case, dealing with court procedures and negotiating settlements or penalties.

Local Laws Overview

The key domestic violence laws in Singapore are listed under the Women’s Charter (specifically, Section 65). When violence is inflicted or threatened by a family member, the victim can apply for a personal protection order (PPO). For immediate and severe cases, an Expedited Order (EO) may be provided. The courts can also issue a Domestic Exclusion Order (DEO) to restrain the abuser from entering the victim's home. Violation of these orders is considered a criminal offense in Singapore.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for a Personal Protection Order?

A PPO can be applied by anyone who is a victim of family violence, or by a family member or a welfare officer on behalf of the victim and with their consent.

2. Can men also apply for a PPO?

Yes, both men and women can apply for a PPO if they have been victims of family violence. The law is gender-neutral and offers protection to all victims.

3. What can I do if the offender violates the PPO?

If the offender violates the PPO, you may immediately report it to the police. The offender may be prosecuted and can be punished by imprisonment, fine, or both.

4. What is an Expedited Order (EO)?

An EO is an immediate protection order that can be granted when the court believes that there is imminent danger of physical injury to a family member.

5. What happens if I am wrongly accused of domestic violence?

If you are falsely accused of domestic violence, it's crucial to seek legal representation. The lawyer can help refute the allegations, protect your rights and defend your interests.

Additional Resources

You can contact and seek assistance from various organisations dealing with domestic violence such as AWARE, Singapore Association of Women’s Lawyers (SAWL), the Sexual Assault Care Centre (SACC). The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) also provides resources and support for victims of domestic violence.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance, it's recommended to consult a lawyer who specializes in domestic violence. They can provide appropriate advice and action based on your situations, including applying for protection orders or challenging false accusations. Always remember that help is available and you are not alone in facing this situation.