What To Do If Your Loved One Is Under Police Investigation

by 22 January 2025Knowledge & Insights

Discovering that your loved one is under police investigation can be an overwhelming experience. Questions race through your mind—why is this happening, what does it mean, and most importantly, what can you do to help?

If you’re feeling lost or unsure, you’re not alone. Many people face similar uncertainties but don’t know where to start. Understanding what to do if your loved one is under police investigation is the first step to navigating this situation with care and confidence.

In Singapore, the legal process can be intricate, and the stakes can feel high. This guide will walk you through actionable steps to ensure you make informed decisions without jeopardising their case.

1. Understand The Investigation Process

When someone is under police investigation in Singapore, the police suspect they may be involved in an offence and are gathering evidence to determine whether formal charges should be made. This does not automatically mean your loved one is guilty.

The investigation stage is crucial for the authorities to establish the facts of the case.

Under Singapore law, the police have wide-ranging powers during an investigation, including questioning individuals, obtaining statements, and conducting searches. Here’s what you need to know:

Purpose of the Investigation: The police are determining whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with formal charges. This could involve collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, or examining records.

Police Powers:

  • The police can arrest a person without a warrant for seizable offences (serious crimes such as theft, assault, or drug-related offences).
  • For non-seizable offences, police approval or a magistrate’s order is needed to arrest or proceed further.

2. Stay Calm And Gather Information

Finding out that your loved one is under police investigation can be distressing, but staying calm is essential. Acting out of panic or fear may lead to actions that could inadvertently complicate the situation. Your first step should be to gather as much information as possible about the nature of the investigation to make informed decisions.

Here’s what you should do:

  • Understand the Reason for the Investigation:
    • Ask your loved one what they know about the situation. Have the police contacted them? Do they know the reason for the investigation?
    • If they’ve received a notice or been asked to attend an interview, pay attention to any instructions or details provided by the authorities.
  • Determine the Stage of the Investigation:
    • Is this an initial inquiry, or has your loved one already been questioned?
    • Have they been arrested or asked to provide documents or electronic records?
  • Respect Confidentiality:
    • While it’s natural to want to talk to others for advice or support, avoid discussing the case openly. This includes talking to mutual friends or relatives or posting about the situation on social media. Anything said could potentially be used as evidence or misconstrued during the investigation.
  • Take Notes:
    • Write down key details of what your loved one knows about the case and any interactions they’ve had with the police. This information will be helpful when you consult a lawyer.

3. Engage A Lawyer Without Delay

When your loved one is under police investigation, securing experienced legal representation is one of the most important steps you can take. In Singapore, navigating the legal process can be complex, and having a lawyer on their side ensures that their rights are protected from the outset.

At Tembusu Law, our team of criminal defence lawyers in Singapore is recognised for their expertise in handling various legal matters, from plea negotiations to conducting criminal trials. We understand the challenges and emotional difficulties present in criminal legal matters and are committed to guiding you through the process every step of the way.

If the investigation escalates, engaging a lawyer early also ensures that your loved one has someone to represent their interests. This can include advice on what documents to provide, preparing for police interviews, or even applying for bail if an arrest occurs. Early legal intervention often prevents minor missteps that could have serious consequences later.

4. The Right Against Self-Incrimination

One of the most important legal protections your loved one has during a police investigation in Singapore is the right against self-incrimination. This means they cannot be forced to provide information or make statements that could be used to prove their guilt. Understanding and exercising this right is crucial to safeguarding their legal position during the investigation.

Under Singapore law, your loved one is not obligated to answer questions or provide information that might incriminate them. While they are expected to cooperate with the police, they have the legal right to remain silent when faced with questions that could lead to self-incrimination.

However, it’s essential to strike a balance. If the case proceeds to Court, the Court may consider the refusal to answer relevant questions during the investigation. This makes it critical for your loved one to navigate what they choose to disclose carefully.

If your loved one does decide to provide a statement, they will be asked to verify and sign it. This is a crucial step, as they must ensure the statement is accurate and reflects what they intended to say. Any errors or misrepresentations could later be used against them in Court. They should not sign the statement under pressure and can request clarification or legal advice if needed.

5. Prepare For Potential Outcomes

This preparation helps reduce stress and ensures that you can effectively support your loved one, no matter how the investigation unfolds. The investigation and its outcomes can take a toll emotionally and financially. Ensure your loved one has a support system and knows the resources available to help them cope.

  • No Further Action (NFA)
    If the police find insufficient evidence, they may decide not to proceed with the case. In such situations, your loved one can resume life without further legal proceedings. However, it’s important to note that an NFA decision doesn’t guarantee permanent closure. The police can reopen the case if new evidence surfaces.
  • Formal Charges
    If enough evidence suggests an offence has been committed, the police may bring formal charges. This typically involves your loved one receiving a charge sheet and being required to appear in Court. Securing experienced legal representation is critical to building a strong defence at this stage.
  • Further Investigation
    Sometimes, the police may require more time to gather evidence or assess the case. This could mean your loved one remains under investigation for an extended period. While this can feel stressful, it’s essential to comply with any requests from the police, such as attending additional interviews or providing documents.
  • Bail or Police Bond
    If your loved one is arrested, they may be released on bail or a police bond while the investigation continues. This often comes with conditions, such as reporting to the police station periodically or refraining from contacting certain individuals. Breaching these conditions can result in stricter measures or re-arrest.

 

Conclusion About Things To Do When Your Loved One Is Under Police Investigation

Finding out that your loved one is under police investigation can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Staying calm, understanding the process and their rights, seeking professional legal advice, and preparing for potential outcomes are all key actions that can protect their rights and help them navigate this challenging time.

At Tembusu Law, we understand the complexities of criminal investigations and their stress on families. Our experienced lawyers are committed to providing clear, practical guidance and robust representation to ensure the best possible outcome for your loved one.

If your loved one is the subject of a police investigation, don’t wait to get the help they need. Contact Tembusu Law today for a confidential consultation and take the first step towards protecting their future.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do When Your Loved One Is Under Police Investigation

What Should I Do If The Police Want To Search My Loved One’s Home Or Belongings?

If the police present a valid warrant, you or your loved one must comply with the search. However, you can observe the search process to ensure proper procedures are followed. If the warrant appears unclear or invalid, consult a lawyer immediately for advice.

How Long Can My Loved One Be Held In Custody During An Investigation?

The police can hold people for up to 48 hours without charging them. If further detention is required, they must obtain approval from a magistrate. A lawyer can help monitor the situation and seek bail if applicable.

Can I Attend The Police Interview With My Loved One?

In Singapore, you cannot accompany your loved one into the interview room unless you are a minor’s guardian or have been explicitly authorised to do so. However, you can provide support outside the police station and ensure they consult a lawyer before and after the interview.

Should My Loved One Comply With Requests To Provide Documents Or Devices?

If the police request documents or devices such as mobile phones or laptops, your loved one should comply unless advised otherwise by a lawyer. However, they should consult their legal representative before voluntarily providing unrelated or additional items.

About the author

About the author

Tembusu Law

Jonathan is the Founder and Managing Director of Tembusu Law. He is also the founder of LawGuide Singapore, a prominent legaltech startup which successfully created and launched Singapore’s first legal chatbot in 2017.

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