Public Defender: Bold Criminal Justice Advocate

Ministry of Law; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ministry of Law, through the Public Defender’s Office (PDO), seeks lawyers to provide quality criminal defence for legally aided persons. The role involves assisting in reports on legal aid, advising applicants, and representing clients in bail applications and trials.

You will engage with prosecution and contribute to sentencing submissions, while collaborating with social services for restorative justice initiatives and rehabilitation planning.

Qualifications

• Law degree from an accredited university.
• Preferably 3–7 years of experience in criminal law practice.
• Strong communication with clients, colleagues, prosecutors and court personnel.
• Empathy, commitment to fair outcomes and equal access to justice.

Responsibilities

• Assist Chief Public Defender in preparing reports on merits of legal aid applications.
• Advise applicants and legally aided persons on legal options.
• Represent clients in court for bail applications.
• Make representations to the prosecution and prepare sentencing submissions.
• Conduct trials and handle appeals.
• Collaborate with social service agencies on rehabilitation as part of restorative justice.

Skills

Litigation

Advocacy

Case management

Analytical thinking

Education

Law degree

Job description

The Ministry of Law, through the Public Defender’s Office (PDO), seeks lawyers to provide quality criminal defence for legally aided persons. The role involves assisting in reports on legal aid, advising applicants, and representing clients in bail applications and trials.

You will engage with prosecution and contribute to sentencing submissions, while collaborating with social services for restorative justice initiatives and rehabilitation planning.