OPENING OF THE LEGAL YEAR 2019: THE NEXT CHAPTER IN OUR JOURNEY STATE COURTS TOWERS: STRUCTURAL WORKS COMPLETED
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ISSUE 01 • MAY 2019
OPENING OF THE LEGAL STATE COURTS TOWERS: FAMILY JUSTICE COURTS
YEAR 2019: THE NEXT STRUCTURAL WORKS WORKPLAN 2019:
CHAPTER IN OUR JOURNEY COMPLETED EVERY OUTCOME –
A WAY FORWARD
JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 02
HIGHLIGHTS
OPENING OF
THE LEGAL YEAR 2019:
HIGHLIGHTS THE NEXT CHAPTER
Opening of the Legal Year 2019:
The Next Chapter in Our Journey
01
IN OUR JOURNEY
State Courts Towers: 03
Structural Works Completed
Family Justice Courts Workplan 2019: 04
Every Outcome – A Way Forward
EVENTS & INITIATIVES
State Courts Workplan 2019: 05
2020 and Beyond
Supreme Court Strategic Compass 06
2019 - 2022
SICC Conference 07
Judicial Insolvency Network Meeting 07
The 2nd Asean Family Judges Forum 08
CAPS Dialogue with Family Service 08
Centres
Family Mediation Symposium 09
State Courts Re-appoint Volunteer 09
Mediators
The Executive Leadership Programme 10 Led by The Honourable the Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon,
the Supreme Court Bench adorned their ceremonial robes to
Counter-terrorism Exercise at the 11 herald the Opening of Legal Year on 7 January at the Supreme
Supreme Court Court Auditorium. Invited guests from the legal community,
including legal luminaries from abroad, were addressed by
Free Food and Books Available in 11 Chief Justice, Attorney-General Lucien Wong, and Mr Gregory
the Courthouse Vijayendran, SC, President of the Law Society, who took stock
of the work done in the past year, and set out the directions
ahead. Read the full response at: www.supremecourt.gov.sg/news/speeches/
NOTABLE VISITS 12
In his address, Chief Justice exhorted the legal community
to shift their collective attention to prepare themselves for a Bringing the day’s event to a close,
dramatically changing legal landscape that is being reshaped Chief Justice and Mrs Menon hosted
WHAT’S NEW? 15 by three significant forces: globalisation, technology, and the the annual Judiciary Dinner at the
growing commercialisation of the law. He highlighted the need Istana on the same evening. The
for a spirit of togetherness, and a multi-pronged approach Dinner was graced by Her Excellency
UPCOMING EVENTS 16 to confront the complex challenges ahead. He suggested President Halimah Yacob and Mr
three possible areas of focus for reforming, reimagining, and Mohamed Abdullah Alhabshee, and
remodeling the legal profession, focusing on the areas of was well-attended by the Judiciary
legal education, professional training and transformation and and invited guests from the legal
BEHIND THE SCENES 17 innovation within the Judiciary. community, local and abroad.
03 JUDICIARY TIMES • ISSUE 1 JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 04
HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS
STATE COURTS TOWERS: FAMILY JUSTICE COURTS WORKPLAN 2019:
STRUCTURAL WORKS COMPLETED EVERY OUTCOME – A WAY FORWARD
The State Courts marked the on- The Family Justice Courts (FJC) held FJC can focus on the following: Scheme will be conceptualised and
schedule completion of the structural its fifth Annual Workplan event on (a) control proceedings; implemented to all who practise
works of the new State Courts Towers 18 February at the Supreme Court (b) enable refreshed mindsets; family law to be equipped with the
on 25 January, with a Topping-out Auditorium. The Workplan 2019, (c) focus on simplified processes basic specialist skillset. A Family
Ceremony which was officiated by themed “Every Outcome - A Way and use of IT to enable an easier Specialist Accreditation Scheme,
The Honourable the Chief Justice Forward”, was attended by close journey for our court users; through Singapore Academy of
Sundaresh Menon. to 200 participants made up of (d) encourage harmonious routes, Law’s Specialist Accreditation Board,
staff and invited guests from the mediation, and counselling at all is also targeted to be rolled out by
The ceremony was marked by a Supreme Court and State Courts. appropriate junctures; and 2020 with the first batch of accredited
drone that scaled the new 35-storey The Honourable the Chief Justice (e) build up strong, solid, Family Specialists to be announced
State Courts Towers to place the Sundaresh Menon was the Guest-of- coordinated, and coherent non- by 2021. Justice Ong concluded
symbolic final amount of concrete Honour for the event. legal therapeutic interventions her speech by recognising the
to top-out the structure. Standing at and support. commitment and dedication of FJC
178m, the building, which comprises The Workplan commenced with staff – “the “heartware” that powers
a court tower and an office tower, is the annual workplan address by A key enabler to achieve them will us on, the “heartbeat” of FJC”.
the tallest government building in the Presiding Judge of FJC, Justice be to conduct a holistic overhaul
Singapore to date. It will be fitted Debbie Ong. In her speech, Justice of key processes with the use of After the tea reception, the external
with 53 courtrooms and 53 hearing Ong laid out FJC’s priorities and technology, including considering guests took their leave while FJC
chambers. and future plans. Justice Ong began whether court attendances can be staff returned to the auditorium for
her speech by highlighting that reduced to save time and costs. a dialogue session with Chief Justice
Behind the steel beams and concrete, the theme is one of the values FJC For example, in the area of divorce, and Justice Ong, moderated by
the public can expect a modern pledged to uphold and explained FJC will explore the possibility of Deputy Presiding Judge, Mr Chia
courthouse which will employ various what the curly ribbon in the logo serving notices automatically and Wee Kiat. Staff members took this
technologies to deliver excellent represented. She said it is hoped providing more services online such rare opportunity to engage Chief
services to court users and manage that after the litigants go through the as requests for certified true copies Justice on his views pertaining to
resources efficiently. For example, the doors of FJC, the ribbon becomes of court documents. Provision of family justice and his vision for FJC.
Resource Management System will straighter with an arrow pointing online sample templates/outlines, In this candid and lively dialogue
be used to manage the deployment forward, in an uplifting manner, and sample common court orders session, Chief Justice emphasised
of physical and manpower resources representing a way forward. are also being considered. the importance of drawing strength
through integration with the State and commitment from giving hope
Courts’ case management systems. Quoting Chief Justice at the Going hand-in-hand with these to the people who come before
It will be used for the allocation of Opening of FJC in 2014, Justice new initiatives is the equipping FJC. Echoing Justice Ong’s opening
courtrooms and hearing chambers Ong shared that “Family Justice is a and training of both family judges remarks on FJC’s unique role, Chief
as well as aid the deployment of unique field in the administration of and lawyers. To do so, a targeted Justice shared: “I think …in the
court officers and court interpreters. justice.” As a court that goes beyond and specialised curriculum will family justice context that is the
the traditional roles of doing only be rolled out for family judges subtext: that’s part of what you have
Other IT or web-enabled services ‘right’, Justice Ong reiterated on how to enable them to work within a to do in order to do your real work
that will be deployed in the new the welfare of the child is paramount multi-disciplinary framework. Also, which is to iron out the curly wurly
building include video-conferencing and is worth protecting. controlling proceedings with strong and produce a nice, straight ribbon
facilities, assistive listening devices in case management will be a priority that is pointing upwards to give
all courtrooms, and progressively, the To reach that endeavour for families, in 2019. On training of family hope to the people. That should be
Intelligent Court Transcription System for a start, Justice Ong shared that lawyers, a Family Lawyer Certification the source of our strength and that
which will transcribe oral evidence should be our mission.”
in court proceedings in real-time,
and interactive self-service kiosks The impending move from a nine- to adapt and keep apace of the
providing informational and payment storey building to a 35-storey environment that we operate in.
services. Smart building technologies building, presents both opportunities We will look towards harnessing
such as facial recognition and and challenges. Presiding Judge technology where possible, for the
automation of building operations of the State Courts, Justice See Kee efficient administration of justice
related to security, mechanical and Oon, said: “The State Courts face and to meet court users’ evolving
electrical systems add to the suite of rapid changes in both the physical needs as we move forward to a new
technologies that will be used in the and contextual environments. We beginning.”
new State Courts Towers. must be alive to these and continue
05 JUDICIARY TIMES • ISSUE 1 JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 06
EVENTS & INITIATIVES EVENTS & INITIATIVES
STATE COURTS WORKPLAN 2019: SUPREME COURT
2020 AND BEYOND STRATEGIC COMPASS 2019 – 2022
This year’s 13 initiatives focus on four Subordinate Courts to identify areas The Supreme Court’s ardent pursuit of court excellence encompassed a comprehensive review of its Vision and
main areas: for improvement, and setting out Mission for the next three years. With an eye on the future and the world which is changing at a dramatic pace,
• Delivering Excellent Court the strategies and implementation the Supreme Court embarked on a series of listening discussions with stakeholders and staff from all levels. What
Services plans to achieve court excellence. At emerged strongly and resonated well is the Vision for the Supreme Court to be a leading and trusted judiciary,
• Enhancing Court Processes the 28th Workplan on 8 March, the ready for tomorrow. As the face of Justice, the Singapore Judiciary should personify our core purpose of serving
• Engaging Stakeholders and State Courts reaffirmed a continuing our people as the guarantors of the rule of law. The Supreme Court’s new mission reads “Accessible Justice that
Sharing Knowledge commitment to review and transform commands trust, respect and confidence”. “Accessible Justice” redefines justice, adding the elements of activeness,
• Transforming Capabilities processes to meet the changing voice and reachability to the tempo.
Presiding Judge of the State Courts, needs of court users and the
Justice See Kee Oon, announced 13 The first State Courts Workplan operating environment in order to
new initiatives at the State Courts 28th was held in 1992 with the objective provide meaningful access to justice
Workplan seminar on 8 March. The of reviewing the work of the then to all in 2020 and beyond.
theme 2020 and Beyond reflects the
State Courts’ goal to be a progressive
and adaptive organisation that is
future-ready. It takes into account the
move to the new State Courts Towers
in 2020, the challenges posed by
the evolving demographic profile
of court users and the opportunities
provided by technological
advancements to transform the
delivery of legal services.
07 JUDICIARY TIMES • ISSUE 1 JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 08
EVENTS & INITIATIVES EVENTS & INITIATIVES
SICC CONFERENCE THE 2ND ASEAN FAMILY JUDGES FORUM
Traditionally held at the start of each year, the Singapore International Commercial Court (SICC) Conference brings The 2nd ASEAN Family Judges Group on Cross Border Disputes The delegates shared that they
the Supreme Court bench and the SICC International Judges together in one setting to review the past year’s Forum (AFJF) co-organised by involving Children (CACJ WG) in had a productive and enjoyable
work and progress and plan the milestones and targets for the new year. Joining us for the first time was the newly the Family Justice Courts and the July 2018, the participants were time at the training, and would
appointed Justice Lord Jonathan Hugh Mance from the United Kingdom. Via the two-day conference that took place Singapore Mediation Centre under immersed in an intense programme be returning home with a deeper
from 8 – 9 January, the participants discussed issues that ranged from IT developments to SICC New Rules, as well as the auspices of the Council of filled with engaging role plays, understanding of how mediation
explored emerging trends in the international commercial courts arena around the world and potential collaborative ASEAN Chief Justices (CACJ) was realistic simulations of a cross could be incorporated as part of a
opportunities with other courts. held on 28 March at the Supreme border relocation case and a child multi-disciplinary suite of different
Court of Singapore. The one-day abduction case, and practical dispute resolution mechanisms for
training programme themed “Family demonstrations on the use of the family disputes within their national
Mediation for Cross-Border Disputes Common Procedures and Points of judicial system.
involving Children” brought together Liaison.
25 judges and court administrators
from seven ASEAN countries.
Building on the learning from the
1st AFJF conducted in 2017 in the
Philippines, the Forum focused on
the use of mediation within national
judicial systems and was designed
to deepen the participants’
understanding of how mediations
of cross-border disputes involving
children are conducted. Developed
JUDICIAL INSOLVENCY NETWORK MEETING in response to issues raised during
the last meeting of CACJ Working
On 5 April, the Judicial Insolvency draft set of modalities which will be to distil the basic administrative
Network (“the JIN”) met in circulated to the JIN members for issues a court may wish to address
Singapore for its third conference. comment. Unlike the Guidelines for in advance in relation to court-to-
CAPS DIALOGUE WITH
FSCs, as well as to generate new
The JIN’s inaugural conference was Communication and Cooperation court communication, bearing in ideas and discuss ways to optimise
in Singapore in October 2016 and its between Courts in Cross-Border mind the time, language and cultural collaborative efforts.
second conference was in New York
City in September 2018.
Insolvency Matters (“the Guidelines”)
issued by the JIN in October 2016,
differences that underpin much of
cross-border communication. It is FAMILY SERVICE CENTRES In all, the sessions were attended
which focus on the principles expected that the JIN will issue the by over 80 professionals from 37
At the latest conference, the JIN governing how courts should Modalities later this year. different FSCs. The sessions were
discussed the four projects which communicate with one another, the very well received with more than
were initiated at the second Modalities focus on the mechanics The JIN also received the good news 90% of the participants indicating
conference relating to: (i) core of court-to-court communication. at this conference that the District that they had gained a better
principles on recognition of These include how a court may Court Midden-Nederland (the understanding of FJC and CAPS.
foreign insolvency proceedings initiate communication with another Netherlands) will be adopting the Participants were particularly
and judgments; (ii) modalities of court, the arrangements as to the Guidelines. appreciative of the opportunity for an
court-to-court communication; (iii) time, method and language of open sharing amongst professionals
guidelines when maritime law and communication, and the designation For more information on the four that generated helpful discussions to
insolvency law intersect, especially of a facilitator for this purpose. Akin projects and the Guidelines, see enhance the partnership.
the arrest of ships and Articles 19, 20 to a checklist, the Modalities seek www.jin-global.org/index.html Family Service Centres (FSC) are key In an effort to foster a closer
and 21 of the UNCITRAL Model Law touchpoints in the community that professional collaboration with Given the close working relationship
on Cross-Border Insolvency; and (iv) support the social and psychological the FSCs, CAPS hosted a series of between CAPS and FSCs, the
identification of insolvency disputes needs of vulnerable families. There five dialogue sessions for all FSCs sessions also allowed both teams to
which parties should consider are 49 FSCs providing a wide range between January and March this year, put faces to the names behind the
sending for alternative dispute of services for families in need. covering all five zonal districts. FSCs email addresses and voices behind
resolution. were invited and grouped according the phone lines.
As part of a holistic approach to to their respective zones to facilitate
In particular, there was detailed help families with multiple issues, synergy amongst the agencies The engagement sessions were a
discussion on the second project Counselling and Psychological in the same zone. The aim of this success, with many attendees further
involving modalities of court-to- Services (CAPS) often triage series of dialogue sessions was to indicating that they would like CAPS
court communication in insolvency appropriate families within the court increase the mutual understanding to continue these engagement
proceedings (“the Modalities”). system to these FSCs to further of professional issues, processes, sessions with FSCs, focusing on
The discussion culminated in a address non-legal social concerns. and services between FJC and various subjects.
09 JUDICIARY TIMES • ISSUE 1 JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 10
EVENTS & INITIATIVES EVENTS & INITIATIVES
FAMILY MEDIATION SYMPOSIUM THE EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME
The Family Justice Courts and Symposium participants were and it provided a regional forum
The Hague Conference on Private warmly welcomed by Presiding for the exchange of information,
International Law (HCCH) jointly Judge of FJC, Justice Debbie Ong experiences, and practices of
organised the Family Mediation and Judge of Appeal of the Supreme participating jurisdictions in
Symposium that was held on 29 Court, Justice Judith Prakash, who mediating family disputes. Topics
March at the Supreme Court of delivered an insightful address on the discussed at the Symposium
Singapore. The Symposium brought importance, benefits and challenges included pre-action mediation and
together over 130 foreign and local of family mediation. First Secretary of court-annexed mediation from
judges, lawyers, Central Authorities, the HCCH, Dr Gérardine Goh Escolar Singapore, Australia, and Japan’s
and academics from 19 jurisdictions closed the Symposium. perspectives, mediating cultural
to share and discuss issues and conflicts and high conflict family
challenges in mediating family The Symposium sought to raise disputes, as well as recognising and
disputes both in a domestic and in a awareness on The Hague 1980, enforcing cross-border mediation
cross-border context. 1996, and 2007 Conventions in Asia agreements in family matters.
Symposium participants were
enriched by the stimulating
presentations by both local and
international speakers. They also
engaged in open discussions
with both the speakers and
among themselves to exchange
perspectives on the diverse
challenges in leveraging mediation
to resolve family disputes. In so
doing, the Symposium achieved
its goals of furthering mutual
understanding between the
jurisdictions, whilst reaffirming the
community’s common pursuit of
protecting the welfare of the child.
STATE COURTS RE-APPOINT
VOLUNTEER MEDIATORS
will provide the opportunity for CVMs The Executive Leadership Chong, provided insights and the challenges and circumstances
to hone their mediation skills and be Programme (ELP) for Court and shared his experiences in ethics and faced by them in leading the courts
exposed to a wider variety of cases. Tribunal Administrators was values in public service during the and tribunals today. The participants
conducted from 18 to 22 February. A panel discussion. Also on the panel also reflected on how the ELP gave
CVMs complement the role of judges total of 36 participants that included were Presiding Judge of the State them the opportunity to learn from
and contribute to the administration Chief Justice Bryan Sykes from Courts, Justice See Kee Oon and and interact with trainers, judges and
of justice. Presiding Judge of the Jamaica, judges, senior registrars, former Director, Institute of Public court administrators from around the
State Courts, Justice See Kee Oon and court and tribunal administrators Administration and Management, world.
commended the CVMs for their from Fiji, Kenya, Myanmar, Tanzania, Civil Service College, Mr David Ma.
passion and dedication and said Thailand and Singapore attended Jointly organised by the State Courts
On 11 February, the State Courts re- The State Courts introduced the that they “serve an important role as the extensive five-day programme. In their feedback, all the participants and the Lee Kuan Yew School of
appointed 136 volunteers to their cross-divisional mediation scheme gatekeepers of the trial courts” by stated that the course learning Public Policy, the third run of the ELP
panel of Court Volunteer Mediators the new cross-divisional mediation working with disputing parties to help In addition to the lectures conducted objectives had been met. The saw the highest participation since it
(CVMs). The pledge-taking and scheme that will allow those who are them resolve their disputes without by the teaching faculty from the Lee practical sessions and in-depth was first introduced in 2017. It is the
appointment ceremony is conducted eligible to mediate disputes in both the need for trial, reduce conflict and Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, as case studies that were specifically only executive programme catered
every three years for CVMs to extend the State Courts Centre for Dispute find closure. With early resolution, well as senior management members developed for the programme were specifically to court administrators in
their volunteer term and for new Resolution and Community Justice court and judicial resources can be of the State Courts, Judge of Appeal found to be useful in addressing Asia.
volunteers to be formally inducted to and Tribunals Division. This scheme, optimally deployed, and litigation of the Supreme Court, Justice Steven
the panel. which will take effect later this year, costs are contained.
11 JUDICIARY TIMES • ISSUE 1 JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 12
EVENTS & INITIATIVES NOTABLE VISITS
COUNTER-TERRORISM EXERCISE 7-15 JAN 2019
Attachment from the Judiciary of Thailand
AT THE SUPREME COURT
Two judges from the Supreme Court of Thailand, and a Court Administrator
Two gunmen entered the Supreme a simulated terrorist attack within the A Supreme Court spokesperson from the Office of Judiciary of Thailand were attached to the State Courts
Court building by tailgating a staff Supreme Court building. said, “The joint counter-terrorism from 7 to 15 January. They underwent a comprehensive programme that
and shooting at members of public exercise with the Singapore Police included observing court and tribunal proceedings as well as learning about
on 6 December 2018! How did The situation was kept under control Force was very useful in preparing information technology and case management in the courts. On the last day
Supreme Court react? until the police officers from the staff and tenants for a terrorist attack of their attachment, they visited the Family Justice Courts where they learned
Central Police Division such as when it happens. With the global how family and youth matters are handled.
Please do not be alarmed! This was Police Custodial Branch, Emergency threat of terrorism, the exercise has
all just part of the counter-terrorism Response Team, and Marina Bay helped to raise awareness, the level
exercise where the Singapore Neighbourhood Police Centre of vigilance amongst staff, and tested
Police Force (SPF) collaborated responded to the incident. They the robustness of our emergency
with Supreme Court to validate coordinated their response with the response plans.”
operational plans and test the auxiliary police officers to locate and 14 JAN 2019
coordination between the two neutralise the gunmen. Visit by the Federal Court of Australia
organisations as they responded to
The Honourable Justice Sarah Derrington, President of the Australian Law
Reform Commission, together with The Honourable Michelle May AM QC,
visited the Family Justice Courts (FJC) on 14 January. They were interested
to learn more about the judge-led less adversarial approach in FJC, and
to study FJC’s division of assets regime. They were received by Presiding
Judge, Justice Debbie Ong, and Deputy Presiding Judge Chia Wee Kiat
in the morning at FJC (Havelock Square) and District Judge Kevin Ng in
the afternoon at FJC (MND Complex). The guests were briefed accordingly
and there was a dynamic exchange of working experiences in the less
(Photo Credits: Singapore Police Force) adversarial approach between the two countries. The guests were also
given tours of FJC’s premises at both Havelock Square and MND Complex.
FREE FOOD AND BOOKS AVAILABLE
IN THE COURTHOUSE
24 JAN 2019
Visit by Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Singapore
As part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, The Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Singapore, Mr Kakhramon Shakirov,
the State Courts have set up a free food station and book paid a courtesy call on Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon on 24 January for
station on level one at the i-Connect area. Aptly named the first time, after his appointment in July 2018. The Ambassador shared
Food for Good and The Book Nook, these stations were on the court and judiciary reforms which Uzbekistan was looking into, and
introduced on 11 January and 29 April respectively to further discussed on potential areas of collaboration with Chief Justice.
encourage people to give back to society.
Comprising a refrigerator for vegetables and fruits, and
a shelf for canned or dry goods, the food station is for
everyone, including court users and the general public.
Food for Good promotes the reduction of food waste and is
meant to be self-sustainable through giving, and for those
12 FEB 2019
who receive, to not take more than what they need.
Visit by Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Singapore
At first, we were just trying, in our small way to help
court users who might need a little more. However,
we thought that it will be meaningful to extend the The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Singapore, Dr Usen Suleimen, met up
initiative to the wider community. with Judge of Appeal of the Supreme Court, Justice Steven Chong, on 12
February where they discussed details of the initiatives newly implemented
State Courts CSR Committee in the courts of Kazakhstan.
The Book Nook is also meant to be self-sustainable. Anyone
can contribute a book that is suitable for children under the
age of 10. These books will not only keep children occupied
when adults go about their business in the courthouse,
the children can also take them home to share with their
relatives and friends.
13 JUDICIARY TIMES • ISSUE 1 JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 14
NOTABLE VISITS NOTABLE VISITS
21 FEB 2019 19 MAR 2019
Visit by the Chief Justice of Jamaica Visit by Japan Adult Guardianship Law Corporate Association
Chief Justice of Jamaica, The Honourable Mr Justice Bryan Sykes, led a three- A delegation from the Japan Adult Guardianship Law Corporate
member delegation to call on Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon on 21 February. Association visited the Family Justice Courts (FJC) on 19 March. The visit
Both Chief Justices discussed the importance of harnessing technology in the was part of a two-day learning journey programme in Singapore, which
courts and possible areas of collaboration. Chief Justice Sykes’ visit concluded included visits to the Office of the Public Guardian and the Special Needs
with a meet-up session with the Dean of the Singapore Judicial College, Mr Foo Trust Company Ltd, to understand and learn about the Mental Capacity
Chee Hock, SC. Act in Singapore, as well as the roles and functions of each organisation.
District Judge Daniel Koh received and briefed the delegation on the
court processes and the visit ended with a tour of the FJC premises at
Havelock Square.
FEB/MAR 2019 MAR/APR 2019
Judicial Delegates from Japan visit Singapore Courts Attachment of Delegates from Myanmar
The Singapore Courts received delegates from the Yamagata District Court, Ministry of Justice and the Supreme Court of Pursuant to the Singapore-Myanmar Integrated Legal Exchange (SMILE MOU),
Japan between 26 February and 28 March. which aims to promote a better understanding of the laws, legal systems and
institutions of both countries, the State Courts and the Family Justice Courts
In addition to court procedures, they learned about the use of court technologies and electronic systems such as State (FJC) hosted the attachment of the following officers:
Courts’ Community Justice and Tribunals System, the Family Justice Courts’ (FJC’s) iFAMS (Integrated Family Application
Management System) and eLitigation, used in the Singapore courts. From 11 to 15 March
• Assistant Director of Law and Procedure Department, Office of the Union
Judge Masanori Hara from the Yamagata District Court visited the State Courts and the FJC on 26 February; Mr Koji Kanki Judiciary Supervision, The Union Supreme Court of Myanmar, Ms Theint
and Mr Takuya Matsunami from Ministry of Justice, Japan visited the Supreme Court and State Courts on 11 March; Judge Theint Htwe
Tomoko Sawamura and Judge Hideaki Yamagishi from the Supreme Court of Japan visited the FJC on 28 March.
From 8 April to 11 April (attached to the State Courts)
• Deputy Director, International Law and ASEAN Legal Affairs Division, Legal
Advice Department, the Union Attorney General’s Court of Myanmar, Mr
Min Min Htet
• Additional Township Judge, Hlaing Township Court, Myanmar Supreme
Court of the Union, Ms Suu Hnin Myat
The attachments, which included the observing of proceedings in chambers,
covered the delegates’ key areas of interest that included case management
and court mediation at the State Courts Centre for Dispute Resolution and the
Family Dispute Resolution Division.
18 MAR 2019 4 APR 2019
Visit to the Reformative Training Centre Judicial Officials from Estonia visit the State Courts
Judge of Appeal of the Supreme Court, Justice Andrew Phang led a Judge and President of the Tartu Court of Appeal, Mrs Kersti Kerstna-
16-member delegation from the Supreme Court to visit the Reformative Vaks, and Deputy Secretary General on Legislative Policy of the Estonian
Training Centre (RTC) on 18 March. Commissioner of Prisons, Mr Desmond Ministry of Justice, Mrs Kai Harmand, were received by Deputy Presiding
Chin, and members of his senior management team hosted the Supreme Judge and Registrar, Ms Jennifer Marie, and District Judge Seah Chi-Ling
Court delegation who was given an overview of RTC, and brought on a at the State Courts on 4 April. The delegates, exchanged ideas on the use
tour of the RTC and Prison School premises. The visit concluded with the of technology and artificial intelligence in the courts with a panel of State
Supreme Court delegation expressing their appreciation to the hosts from Courts judges.
the Singapore Prison Service for their warm hospitality.
(Photo Credits: Singapore Prison Service)
15 JUDICIARY TIMES • ISSUE 1 JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 16
WHAT’S NEW? WHAT’S NEW?
ECT HEARS WRONGFUL DISMISSAL CLAIMS ENHANCEMENT TO INSPECTION
From 1 April, the State Courts’ Employment Claims Tribunals (ECT)
will adjudicate wrongful dismissal claims that remain unresolved after
They will also be able to take
advantage of the ECT’s effective
OF COURT DOCUMENTS PROCESS
mediation. Previously dealt with by the Ministry of Manpower, this change and affordable dispute resolution
follows the amendments to the Employment Act and Employment Claims processes to resolve their disputes. Since 15 February, an enhancement has been made to the inspection I was very glad
Act to enhance the employment dispute resolution framework. These include the 24/7 online filing of court documents process to enable court users who request to when told I could
of claims via the Community Justice inspect court documents to download the approved documents download the
Employers and employees with both salary-related and wrongful dismissal and Tribunals System (CJTS) and its online, without the need to come to the court personally. documents via a
disputes now have access to a one-stop service for both types of claims. e-resolution options. hyperlink this time
With this enhancement, upon approval to view the court documents, instead of having to
As with other claims in the ECT, requestors will be sent an authentication token (via SMS) and a return to the bureau
disputing parties will have to first hyperlink (via email) to access the documents. However, those who to get them.
undergo mediation at the Tripartite wish to continue using the LawNet Service Bureau to view documents
Alliance for Dispute Management may still do so. Lydia Lam, Senior Journalist
(TADM). If the dispute remains
unresolved after mediation, the
parties will receive a claim referral For more information on inspection of court documents, please scan this QR code or visit:
certificate from TADM to file their https://www.supremecourt.gov.sg/services/court-services/inspection-and-supply-of-
claim via the CJTS. court-documents
Community Justice and Tribunals System (CJTS)
The CJTS is an e-filing system for small claims and employment and community disputes. The One Judiciary Annual Report 2018 encapsulates the work done
It provides claimants with 24/7 access to the dispute resolution processes and allows by the Singapore Judiciary in 2018 to enhance the Singapore justice
them to track their cases at their convenience and seek an amicable settlement through system and to ensure that justice is dispensed without fear or favour,
its e-Negotiation and e-Mediation options, without having to go to the State Courts. First affection or ill-will, and that it remains within the reach of all in our nation.
launched in July 2017, the CJTS was enhanced for the online filing of employment claims
on 7 January 2019. Scan to view the One Judiciary Annual Report 2018
or download a copy at: http://bit.ly/OJAR2018
STOP ORDER
Supreme Court, Singapore State Courts, Singapore Family Justice Courts, Singapore
Charting the Course of Justice Shaping Tomorrow’s Justice In the Next Phase
Under the new procedure which
took effect on 1 January this year,
if a parent or party who had been UPCOMING EVENTS
granted a stop order by the court (that
prohibits the child from being taken
DIVORCE AND YOU
out of jurisdiction without an Order
of Court or the consent of the other
or both parents or parties) wishes to
seek Immigration and Checkpoints “Divorce and You” legal talk aims to help you understand the divorce process in our legal system and to know what
Authority’s (ICA) assistance on the avenues there are to help you and your loved ones through this difficult time.
stop order, he or she must file an
undertaking before separately other parent and the other parent, sending the same to a dedicated
approaching ICA to give effect to the subsequently consents to the child’s ICA email address together with Dates of Upcoming Talks in 2019:
stop order. The undertaking assures travel, the relevant party should the stop order. The requestor need • 24 May • 19 July • 27 Sep • 22 Nov
the authorities that any updates notify ICA so that ICA will not stop not go through a lawyer to file the To register, please scan
affecting the child will be promptly the child from leaving Singapore. undertaking. In the event a parent Time: 6.30pm - 8.00pm (registration starts at 6.00pm)
this QR Code or visit
given to ICA. For example, in a case As set out in the Practice Directions, or party breaches a Court Order, it https://tinyurl.com/yalcrcna
Venue: Law Society Pro Bono Services, 17 Phillip Street,
where the stop order specifies that the undertaking should be filed with is tantamount to Contempt of Court
#08-00, Grand Building, Singapore 048695
the child cannot be taken out of Family Justice Courts through the which attracts both civil and criminal
Singapore without the consent of the Court’s eLitigation system before penalties.
17 JUDICIARY TIMES • ISSUE 1 JUDICIARY TIMES • MAY 2019 18
BEHIND THE SCENES BEHIND THE SCENES
BEHIND THE SCENES WITH
COURT SECURITY MANAGEMENT OFFICERS
Why are you passionate about your job? 15 March serves as a warning of the extensive damage
Adriean: I started my career in security just after the that can be caused by just one person. As there are
events of 9/11. It made me realise that everyone has many ways in which a similar situation can play out, I
a role to play to ensure the safety and security of our would have to think about how to train and prepare our
loved ones. By safeguarding someone else’s loved one security team and colleagues to handle such a scenario.
at my place of work, I believe that my own are being
watched over by other security practitioners too. Ian: Managing emotionally charged parties going
through difficult times is always challenging. There is
Bernard: I am very committed to protecting and a need to maintain security and at the same time be
serving the community; this is why I got into the field of sensitive and understanding.
Mohammad Adriean Bin security. Security work is beyond systematic objectives;
Bernard Chow Ian Chen I am also passionate about the human aspect it brings. Share a memorable incident that took place during the
Mohamad Thany
For example, helping people from all walks of life course of your job.
during the course of my work - it could be something Bernard: It was a theft case that took place in the
as trivial as the retrieval of a lost item, but it could mean courthouse in 2014. A court user had stolen a mobile
Our courthouses are key installations in Singapore which are visited by the members of public on a daily basis. the world to its owner. Knowing that I can help, even if phone from another court user who had dozed off at
Therefore, it is paramount that the courts are equipped with the technology, personnel and up-to-date security it is in a small way, is fulfilling. the State Courts atrium. Investigating the matter was not
procedures to create a safe and secure environment for all.
easy as the courthouse is a very busy place. Thankfully,
Ian: The work that our judges and staff do is really due to the courts’ comprehensive surveillance systems,
Security Management Officers play a significant role to ensure that court security measures, such as physical tough. I care for them and do not wish for any harm we managed to identify the suspect, who was later
infrastructure, technological systems, emergency preparedness procedures and crisis response plans, are in place to befall them especially from a security point of view, arrested. This incident highlights the importance and
and robust. which is under my care. Same for the FJC court users benefits of having an effective security system.
that are made up of families and youths.
Beyond protocols and state-of-the-art hardware, “heartware” is equally important when managing court users of
Ian: Sometime last year, a suspect was spotted
different background and stature. This can be described as a balancing act between being firm but fair to court users, What are some valuable skills or lessons that you have splashing a black substance around the FJC building
and showing empathy to those who are in need. learnt from the job? during silent hours. I was glad that the security officers
Adriean: There is usually more than meets the eye. were immediately available on call (despite being after
In this issue, we interviewed Mohammad Adriean from the Supreme Court, Bernard Chow from the State Courts and
Certain situations require the correct perspective (or office hours) to review the CCTV footage and to assist
Ian Chen from the Family Justice Courts (FJC) to find out more about the work they do.
sometimes multiple perspectives) to be resolved. In with police investigations. This quick response led to
certain cases, prioritisation is key. the culprit being identified and arrested by the police.
Bernard: It would be emotional intelligence and What motivates you?
decisiveness. Emotional intelligence is important, and Adriean: That I am only one of many professional
How long have you been working in the courts? What is a typical work day for you? especially useful to help manage court users in more security practitioners who work hand in hand to
challenging situations. This includes showing empathy contribute to the success of our organisation.
Adriean: I have been working for one and a half years All: A typical work day would include attending to
towards court users who have breached courthouse
in the Supreme Court. Nevertheless, my experience in emergencies and incidents in the courts, managing
rules unknowingly. When handling security-related Bernard: Knowing that the security officers deployed
corporate security encompasses more than 10 years the deployment of security officers on the ground,
incidents, I often have to make decisions quickly. As at State Courts are doing a good job. I am always
heading the security departments of notable properties performing audit checks and exercises to ensure
every situation is unique, being able to make the right very happy to receive news that they had received
both locally and overseas. I have also contributed back the security officers are always alert and vigilant and
call is a very valuable skill. compliments from court users for their exemplary
to the industry by conducting security training for other ensuring that the security equipment and systems in
security practitioners and the general community. the building are in good operational condition. service. I am also looking forward to the move into State
What are some of the challenges that you face? Courts’ new premises.
Bernard: I joined the State Courts in 2014. Before that, I Adriean: To add, the Supreme Court hears many high Adriean: Promoting the idea of community policing
was an Auxiliary Police Officer for 10 years. profile cases, organises public events and receives - it is everyone’s role to play in the overall security Ian: Keeping the courts safe for judges and staff, and
important dignitaries locally and from overseas. As programme and we depend on persons reporting any also for the court users to go about their transactions,
Ian: I have been with the FJC for three and a half years. such, my team and I will conduct scenario planning peculiarity or threat. as well as the development of the security team to meet
Prior to that, I was a Registrar for the Subordinate Military and make necessary preparations to mitigate potential this goal.
Courts & Military Court of Appeal of the Singapore related risks. Bernard: We will always have to be prepared to face
Armed Forces. any kind of threat. The recent Christchurch Shooting onJointly brought to you by:
1 Supreme Court Lane 1 Havelock Square 3 Havelock Square
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www.SupremeCourt.gov.sg www.StateCourts.gov.sg www.FamilyJusticeCourts.gov.sgYou can also read
