The Singapore Law Review

From the Editor-in-Chief

The criminal law governs the acts of individuals and seeks to establish order while simultaneously preventing harm in inherently chaotic societies. As its control and reach over citizens over the land are manifestly formidable, the criminal law must invariably be underpinned by notions of justice and fairness; otherwise it would lose all normative reason for its existence. This issue of the Juris Illuminae examines the various facets of the law in this regard, from the initiation stage of prosecutorial discretion to evidential and constitutional worries at trial, and their need for reform, if any. An intriguing interview with Mr. Subhas Anandan, arguably Singapore’s best-known criminal lawyer, is also included. He provides his views on his practice and motivations – topics that will greatly interest students considering a similar career path.

This issue marks the end of the Singapore Law Review’s current editorial board’s contributions to this flourishing newsletter. The Review thanks Colin Ng & Partners for their kind partnership and support throughout the year. We are also grateful for the opportunities afforded to us in furthering our aim of facilitating the cognisance and discussion of all matters legal. We must also thank you, the loyal reader, for without an audience, words will be for naught.

Do enjoy this last issue of Juris for the academic year and all the best in the coming examinations!

(Read the Print Version: Juris Illuminae Vol. 4 Issue 5 Print Edition) (more…)

From the Chief Editor

Jerome Kerviel, Zulkifli Amin, David Rasif. It is unsurprising if these names ring a bell. With all the amplified commotion, one would think that honesty and integrity were suddenly values lost. Coping with this problem would require a multi-faceted approach far beyond implementing new regulations (which history has proven can be circumvented) or setting up a compulsory course in law school. The notion of honour must be imbibed from a far younger age, before stark rationality and plain greed set in. Only then can the evils be countervailed.

This issue of Juris grapples with this and more. The opening of the legal year has seen many proposals for change, not least an opening up of the legal sector to foreign firms and changes to the current pupillage training system. We have also found it fit to include a short note on a High Court case concerning a kleptomaniac - one that exemplifies the flexibility and light-handedness of the court. Also featured is our sponsoring firm, Colin Ng & Partners, in view of the impending Law Careers Fair.

Last but not least, we include vital information on the SLR International Writing Symposium, a writing competition-cum-symposium that is open to all undergraduate law students, this time including students from around the world as well. Take part and stand a chance to win the top prize of US$3000!

Have a great month ahead!

(Read the Print Version: Juris Illuminae Vol. 4 Issue 4 Print Edition) (more…)