Raj Joshua Thomas on Public Defenders Bill
Public defending is a new concept to Singaporeans and how it is perceived and approached will depend on the information provided to the public and how the Public Defender’s Office (PDO) carries out its functions. Making the point in Parliament on Monday (Aug 1), NMP Raj Joshua Thomas suggested clearing up any possible confusion among laymen that the Government would be funding both prosecution and defence. He said the application process for those needing legal aid should be easy and accessible, and not take too long, and that managing expectations will be important. Mr Thomas also pointed out that the PDO should not be a “passion project”, as has happened in other jurisdictions. He called for adequate staffing and compensation, and proper career progression prospects for public defenders.
Public defending is a new concept to Singaporeans and how it is perceived and approached will depend on the information provided to the public and how the Public Defender’s Office (PDO) carries out its functions. Making the point in Parliament on Monday (Aug 1), NMP Raj Joshua Thomas suggested clearing up any possible confusion among laymen that the Government would be funding both prosecution and defence. He said the application process for those needing legal aid should be easy and accessible, and not take too long, and that managing expectations will be important. Mr Thomas also pointed out that the PDO should not be a “passion project”, as has happened in other jurisdictions. He called for adequate staffing and compensation, and proper career progression prospects for public defenders.
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