Best International Criminal Law Lawyers in Raffles Place
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List of the best lawyers in Raffles Place, Singapore
1. About International Criminal Law in Raffles Place, Singapore
International Criminal Law (ICL) deals with crimes that cross borders or involve violations of international norms. In Singapore, ICL interacts with domestic criminal law to handle cross-border investigations, extraditions, and international cooperation. Raffles Place hosts many multinational firms that rely on clear guidance when dealing with foreign authorities or foreign investigations.
Singapore uses domestic statutes and bilateral or multilateral arrangements to enforce international norms. Practicing ICL in Raffles Place often involves collaboration between prosecutors, defense counsel, and regulators to navigate cross-border requests, assets tracing, and cross-jurisdictional investigations. This creates a need for lawyers who understand both Singaporean procedure and international cooperation frameworks.
Singapore is not a party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, which affects how ICC actions interact with Singaporean cases. This underscores the importance of local avenues for prosecuting and defending crimes with international elements.
"Singapore is not a party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court." Source: International Criminal Court
Source note: For cross-border cooperation, Singapore relies on its MLA regime and extradition framework described by the government and official legal portals. Source: Attorney-General's Chambers and Singapore Statutes Online
2. Why You May Need a Lawyer
- Extradition request for a Singaporean in Raffles Place A resident working in a multinational bank is subject to an urgent extradition request from another country for alleged offences committed abroad. You need counsel to assess provisional arrest, bail, and the legality of the request. A lawyer can challenge procedural defects and protect rights pending proceedings.
- Mutual Legal Assistance in a cross-border financial probe A Singapore-based finance firm in Raffles Place faces MLA requests for documents and witness testimony tied to foreign investigations. You need a lawyer to coordinate with foreign authorities and ensure evidence is obtained lawfully.
- Sanctions enforcement and compliance investigations A company or individual in Raffles Place is investigated for sanctions evasion tied to overseas supply chains. You need counsel to interpret sanctions laws and manage cooperation with regulators and foreign prosecutors.
- Cross-border asset tracing and freezing orders Foreign authorities seek to freeze assets in Singapore linked to an international fraud case. A lawyer helps negotiate asset recovery orders, preserve client rights, and challenge overreach.
- Defence in Singapore for crimes with international elements A foreign national in a Singapore court is charged with offences connected to overseas activities. You need defense counsel skilled in procedural intricacies and international cooperation considerations.
3. Local Laws Overview
Extradition Act
The Extradition Act governs when Singapore can extradite a person to another country and when it may receive a person from abroad. It sets out procedures, warrants, and the role of courts in evaluating requests. This Act is central to cases where international criminal matters intersect with Singaporean custody and transfer processes.
Procedural steps typically involve a formal request from the foreign authority, assessment by Singaporean authorities, and judicial oversight before any surrender occurs. For residents or companies in Raffles Place, timely legal advice is essential to protect rights and ensure compliance with due process.
Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Act
The Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Act enables foreign jurisdictions to obtain evidence, documents, or testimony located in Singapore. It also allows Singapore to request assistance abroad, creating a bridge for cross-border investigations. The Act is frequently used in financial, cyber, and corruption related matters with international links.
Legal counsel can negotiate scope, ensure respect for privilege and confidentiality, and coordinate practical steps such as subpoenas, document production, and overseas interviews. Firms in Raffles Place regularly advise on MLA requests to safeguard client interests while complying with legal duties.
Terrorism (Suppression of Financing) Act
The Terrorism (Suppression of Financing) Act targets financing for terrorist acts and related activities. It provides authorities with tools to detect, freeze, and prosecute funds linked to terrorism. This statute interacts with cross-border financial networks and international cooperation efforts.
Advice from a lawyer is crucial when handling asset freezes, financial disclosures, or settlements arising from terrorism-related investigations. Singaporean courts scrutinize compliance with procedural safeguards and evidentiary standards in such cases.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
What is international criminal law and how does it affect residents in Singapore?
International criminal law governs crimes like war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. In Singapore, it interacts with domestic law through extradition, MLA, and cross-border enforcement. Residents may encounter ICL in multinational investigations or cooperation with foreign authorities.
How do I know if I need an international criminal law lawyer for an extradition case?
Consider an urgent foreign extradition request for a person in Singapore. You should seek counsel immediately to evaluate legal grounds, detention rights, and the proper channels for challenging or complying with the request. Time-sensitive steps are common in these matters.
What is the difference between extradition and mutual legal assistance in practice?
Extradition involves surrender of a person to another country for prosecution or punishment. Mutual legal assistance focuses on obtaining evidence, documents, or testimony without transferring a person. Both require careful legal maneuvering and documentation.
Do I need a Singapore-qualified lawyer, even if the case has international aspects?
Yes. Domestic procedure, court rules, and local rights apply in Singapore. A Singapore-licensed lawyer with ICL experience can coordinate with foreign counsel and manage cross-border steps effectively.
How long does an extradition process typically take in Singapore?
Timelines vary by case complexity and foreign requests. Simple cases may conclude in a few months, while complex investigations can extend longer. Your lawyer can provide a realistic timeline after reviewing the request.
Is the Rome Statute applicable in Singapore?
No. Singapore is not a party to the Rome Statute, so ICC proceedings do not automatically apply in Singapore. Domestic courts handle cases under Singaporean law.
Singapore is not a party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.
Source: International Criminal Court
What should I prepare for a mutual legal assistance request?
Gather key documents, government records, and communications related to the investigation. Your lawyer can help assemble privileged material and liaise with foreign authorities while preserving confidentiality.
Can a private individual be extradited for crimes committed abroad?
Yes, if a valid extradition treaty or legal framework applies and the offence is punishable in both jurisdictions. A lawyer can assess treaty grounds, jurisdiction, and procedural safeguards.
What is the role of the Attorney-General in international criminal matters?
The Attorney-General's Chambers oversees prosecutions and provides legal advice to the government on cross-border matters, including extradition and MLA. They coordinate with foreign authorities as needed.
How do sanctions violations get investigated in Singapore?
Authorities may investigate under the Terrorism (Suppression of Financing) Act and related financial regulations. A lawyer helps interpret obligations and respond to investigations or asset actions.
Do I need to prove privilege when providing documents for an MLA request?
Privilege protection depends on the nature of the documents. Your lawyer will identify privileged material and negotiate its use with foreign authorities to minimize disclosure risks.
5. Additional Resources
- Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) - Singapore: Prosecutions, legal advice to the government, and oversight of cross-border criminal matters. https://www.agc.gov.sg
- Singapore Police Force (SPF): Investigations and enforcement, including international cooperation and liaison with foreign agencies. https://www.police.gov.sg
- Singapore Statutes Online: Official repository of Singapore Acts and subsidiary legislation, including Extradition and MLA Acts. https://sso.agc.gov.sg
6. Next Steps
- Identify whether your issue involves extradition, MLA cooperation, or a domestic criminal matter with international aspects. This clarifies the lawyer's focus.
- Assess local law firm options in Raffles Place that advertise ICL or cross-border criminal practice and review their recent cases.
- Schedule an initial consultation to discuss the foreign jurisdiction involved, the scope of evidence, and potential outcomes.
- Prepare a structured document bundle: notices, letters, warrants, and any foreign requests you have received. Bring all relevant communications.
- Ask about fees, timelines, and what you can expect during the process, including possible appeals or interlocutory motions.
- Verify the lawyer’s credentials and compliance with Singapore Bar requirements, and confirm language capabilities if witnesses or documents are outside Singapore.
- Agree on a practical plan with milestones and frequent updates, including coordination with foreign counsel and authorities if needed.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Raffles Place through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including International Criminal Law, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
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The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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