What To Do If You Receive A Warrant Of Arrest In Singapore

by 22 January 2025Knowledge & Insights

Receiving a warrant of arrest in Singapore can be an alarming experience, but staying informed and taking the right steps is essential. A warrant of arrest is a legal document authorising the police to apprehend an individual who may have failed to meet legal obligations or is suspected of committing an offence.

Understanding what an arrest warrant in Singapore entails and knowing how to respond can make all the difference in resolving the situation. In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know and do if you find yourself in this position.

Immediate Steps To Take Upon Receiving A Warrant

Receiving a warrant of arrest in Singapore can be daunting, but taking the right steps immediately is crucial to resolving the situation. Here’s what you should do:

1. Do Not Ignore The Warrant

Ignoring an arrest warrant in Singapore can lead to more severe consequences, such as being arrested unexpectedly or facing additional charges. A warrant is a legal order, and failing to act promptly may be considered non-compliant with the law.

2. Verify The Warrant

Check the warrant’s authenticity to ensure it is legitimate. You can do this through the Outstanding Warrant of Arrest Enquiry System, available through the Singapore Police Force or relevant agencies.

Consulting with a lawyer to confirm the details of the warrant is also a must. A lawyer can review the warrant, explain its implications, and guide you on the appropriate action. They can also represent you during interactions with law enforcement or in Court, ensuring your interests are protected.

3. Gather Necessary Documents

Prepare all necessary documents before proceeding further. This includes your identification, a copy of the warrant if available, and any other related documentation, such as previous correspondence with the Court or police. Having these documents ready can streamline the process and make your interactions with the authorities more efficient.

4. Comply With Legal Obligations

Finally, comply with the instructions on the warrant, such as appearing in Court or surrendering to the police. Non-compliance can escalate the situation, leading to immediate arrest or additional penalties. Acting responsibly and fulfilling your legal obligations can positively influence how the authorities handle your case.

 

When Is A Warrant Of Arrest Issued?

A warrant grants police officers the authority to:

  • Locate and legally arrest the individual named in the warrant.
  • Enter and search premises if necessary to carry out the arrest (subject to legal provisions).
  • Detain the individual until they are brought before the Court.

A warrant of arrest is generally issued under the following circumstances:

  1. For Non-Arrestable Offences: Unlike arrestable offences, where the police can arrest without a warrant (e.g., theft or assault), a warrant is required for non-arrestable offences, such as public nuisance or verbal abuse.
  2. Failure to Attend Court: If an individual fails to appear in Court after being summoned, the Court may issue a warrant to compel their attendance.
  3. Non-Payment of Fines: Individuals who do not pay fines imposed for offences like traffic violations or regulatory breaches may face an arrest warrant.
  4. Contempt of Court: Ignoring court orders or behaving in a manner that undermines the Court’s authority can also result in a warrant.

What To Do If A Warrant Is Issued While You Are Overseas

If a warrant of arrest is issued against you while you are overseas, it is important to address the matter proactively to avoid complications upon your return to Singapore. A warrant does not lose its validity because you are outside the country, and ignoring it could result in serious legal consequences, including arrest at immigration checkpoints when re-entering Singapore.

If the Court believes you are hiding or running away overseas, a proclamation may be published, requiring you to appear at a specified time and place. This proclamation may be delivered to your last known address or published in public platforms such as newspapers.

Should you fail to comply with the proclamation, the Court may take further action, such as ordering the seizure of your property. This can involve the seizure of your assets or restrictions on rental income, which may be disposed of if you fail to respond.

You should immediately consult a criminal lawyer in Singapore to address the situation. A lawyer can advise you on how to resolve the matter, represent your interests with the authorities, and help negotiate your return to Singapore if necessary.

Proactively addressing the warrant and cooperating with legal processes can significantly affect how the case is handled upon your return. Taking these steps ensures you protect your rights while complying with the law.

 

Conclusion About Singapore’s Warrant Of Arrest

An arrest warrant in Singapore is a serious legal matter that requires prompt attention and informed action. Whether you are in Singapore or overseas, knowing the steps to take can make a significant difference in resolving the issue effectively.

If you or someone you know is facing a warrant of arrest, the experienced criminal lawyers at Tembusu Law are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you through this challenging situation with expert legal advice.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Singapore’s Warrant Of Arrest

Can I Check If A Warrant Of Arrest Has Been Issued Against Me?

Yes, you can check for outstanding warrants through the Outstanding Warrant of Arrest Enquiry System provided by the Singapore Police Force or by consulting a lawyer who can verify the warrant’s details on your behalf.

Does A Warrant Of Arrest Expire After A Certain Time?

No, a warrant of arrest does not expire and remains valid until it is executed or officially cancelled by the Court. Ignoring it will not nullify the warrant.

What Happens If I Refuse To Surrender After A Warrant Is Issued?

If you refuse to surrender, the authorities may escalate actions, such as publishing a proclamation requiring your appearance. The Court may also seize your property or impose stricter penalties for non-compliance.

Can A Warrant Of Arrest Affect My Employment In Singapore?

Yes, having an outstanding warrant of arrest can affect your employment, especially if your job needs regular background checks or involves trust-sensitive roles. Employers may view it as a legal or reputational risk.

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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