What is the process for disciplinary proceedings against lawyers in Singapore?

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The process for disciplinary proceedings against lawyers in Singapore involves a formal application by the Law Society to a tribunal, followed by a hearing before the Court of Three Judges for sanctions, particularly when a legal practitioner is convicted of offences involving fraud or dishonesty.

The Law Society of Singapore is mandated under the Legal Profession Act to initiate disciplinary proceedings against a regulated legal practitioner who has been convicted of offences involving fraud or dishonesty. This process formally begins with the Law Society bringing charges to a tribunal, which is responsible for determining guilt. Following the tribunal's findings, a hearing is then conducted before the Court of Three Judges to decide on the appropriate sanctions.
Initiation of Proceedings Following Conviction

Disciplinary proceedings are formally initiated by the Law Society of Singapore when information is received indicating a legal practitioner's conviction for offences involving fraud or dishonesty. This requirement is stipulated by the Legal Profession Act, which obligates the Law Society to apply for disciplinary action in such circumstances. For instance, Workers' Party leader Pritam Singh faced such proceedings after his conviction for lying under oath, which involved an appeal process and subsequent fine.
Tribunal's Role in Determining Guilt

In disciplinary cases, the initial stage involves the Law Society presenting charges to a tribunal. This tribunal's primary function is to adjudicate the case and determine whether the legal practitioner is guilty of the alleged misconduct. This determination of guilt is a prerequisite for further action in the disciplinary process.
Court of Three Judges for Final Sanctions

Once guilt is established by the tribunal, the matter proceeds to a hearing before the Court of Three Judges. This higher judicial body is responsible for imposing the final sanctions on the convicted legal practitioner. The potential sanctions available under the Legal Profession Act are substantial, including being struck off the roll of lawyers, facing a financial penalty of up to S$100,000, or receiving a censure.

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What is the process for disciplinary proceedings against lawyers in Singapore?

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