Singapore’s legal system is based on English common law, supplemented by local statutes. The judicial system is headed by the Supreme Court of Singapore, which comprises the Court of Appeal and the High Court. The court system includes the State Courts, Juvenile Courts, Coroners’ Courts, Tribunals, and small claims tribunals.
The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) is the main legal adviser to the government and provides legal advice and services to the government and its departments. It is also responsible for the prosecution of criminal cases.
The Legal Service Commission (LSC) is responsible for the administration of the Legal Profession Act and regulates the legal profession in Singapore. It also provides legal aid to those who cannot afford to hire a lawyer.
The Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) is the statutory body responsible for certifying legal practitioners in Singapore. It also provides training and continuing professional development for the legal profession.
The Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) is responsible for the registration and protection of intellectual property rights in Singapore. It also provides legal advice and services to businesses and individuals.
The Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC) is an independent body which provides mediation services for the resolution of civil disputes. It is an alternative to court proceedings and provides a quick and cost-effective way of resolving disputes.
The Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) provides a non-adversarial dispute resolution process for international disputes.
The Singapore International Commercial Court (SICC) is a specialist court dedicated to hearing and resolving international commercial disputes. It operates in a similar manner to a regular court, but has a specialised set of rules and procedures.
The Singapore International Mediation Institute (SIMI) is an independent body dedicated to the promotion of mediation as an alternative to litigation. It provides a range of services to promote the use of mediation in the resolution of international disputes.