CLAS Fellow (Criminal Lawyer)

PRO BONO SG; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A non-profit legal service organization in Singapore seeks a CLAS Fellow for a full-time position. The role provides early-career lawyers with a unique opportunity to work on non-capital criminal cases, gain advocacy experience, and receive mentorship from seasoned professionals. Candidates should be called to the Singapore bar with 0 to 3 years PQE and have a strong interest in criminal law and pro bono work. This role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact while developing crucial legal skills.

Benefits

Free CPD-accredited courses

Mentorship by experienced advocates

Qualifications

• 0 to 3 years PQE required.
• Demonstrated commitment to serving the community.
• Reliable team player with the ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Assess merits of applications for legal aid.
• Act for and appear on behalf of accused persons.
• Conduct and attend internal and external training sessions.
• Participate in advocacy work for legal aid.
• Supervise legal interns.
• Promote awareness of representation schemes.

Skills

Interest in criminal law or pro bono work

Strong workload management skills

Self-driven and resourceful

Strong interest in oral advocacy

Fluency in a second language

Education

Called to the Singapore bar

Job description

Roles & Responsibilities

Join Us as a CLAS Fellow

Make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

About the Role

Pro Bono SG is inviting applications for the CLAS Fellowship 2025 / 2026. This is a full‑time, one‑year position (renewable) offering early‑career lawyers a unique opportunity to work on non‑capital criminal cases and support those who are most in need of legal representation.

As a CLAS Fellow, you will gain extensive exposure to both oral and written advocacy in the State and Supreme Courts. The Fellowship is designed to build strong criminal advocacy skills in a meaningful, hands‑on environment.

You will be mentored by experienced CLAS Advocates and supported through a structured training programme, including free CPD‑accredited courses. Fellows also benefit from access to senior members of the criminal Bar, who provide additional guidance and professional support throughout the year.

What You’ll Do

• Assess the merits of applications for legal aid
• Act for and appear on behalf of accused persons granted aid in their criminal matters under schemes administered by PBSG
• Conduct and attend any internal and external training sessions, including the CLAS Training Programme, as required
• Participate in advocacy work within the legal profession to promote greater participation by lawyers in criminal legal aid / volunteer work
• Supervise legal interns attached to one or more of Pro Bono SG’s schemes
• Participate in Pro Bono SG’s events and other outreach-related events in the wider community to promote greater awareness of the guidance and representation schemes available

What We’re Looking For

• Called to the Singapore bar with 0 to 3 years PQE
• Interest in criminal law or pro bono work
• Demonstrated commitment to serving the community
• Strong workload management skills
• Self‑driven, resourceful, and a reliable team player
• Able to work independently and meet tight deadlines
• Strong interest in oral advocacy
• Fluency in a second language

How to Apply

Please email your detailed resume, your notice period (where applicable), and the contact information of two referees to [e-mail].

In the body of your email, tell us why you’re drawn to the Fellowship and what you hope to bring to the role.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.