Close

HEADLINES

Headlines published in the last 30 days are listed on SLW.

Encourage more people to attend public court hearings: Forum

Encourage more people to attend public court hearings: Forum

Source: Straits Times
Article Date: 13 Jun 2025

The author's visit to a State Courts public hearing prompted him to consider why open court hearings – crucial for transparency and public trust – are rarely attended in Singapore compared with other countries.

During a recent visit to a State Courts public hearing, I was the sole member of the public present, which highlighted a striking gap in public engagement.

This prompted me to consider why open court hearings – crucial for transparency and public trust – are rarely attended in Singapore compared with other countries.

Singapore’s courts provide hearing schedules through an official online portal, allowing users to search months ahead. Most hearings are open to the public, except for sensitive matters held in camera. Despite this, public attendance remains low.

I wonder if the issue stems from limited public awareness or more fundamental barriers to access.

While basic online guides exist and the daily hearing information published on the portal is concise and accessible, I believe legal literacy remains a key challenge.

The volume and detail of hearing schedules can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with legal processes. Descriptions of hearings are also often worded in ways that are difficult for laypersons to follow.

Despite reading the available online information before arriving, I still found the procedures unclear and had to seek guidance from court staff on how to observe the hearing.

Clearer communication and continued public education can strengthen engagement and support open justice. Signage at courts could also be further enhanced to encourage greater attendance.

With thoughtful improvements, courtrooms can become not just places of justice, but also spaces of learning for an engaged and informed public.

Ethan Tan

Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction.

Print
1628

Latest Headlines

Singapore Academy of Law / 04 Jul 2025

ADV: SAL Annual Lecture 2025

This lecture explores how judicial independence safeguards Malaysia’s constitutional federalism, ensuring neither Federal Parliament nor State Legislatures overstep their powers. It examines the judiciary’s role in upholding the...
Academy Publishing / 04 Jul 2025

ADV: <Newly Published> Law & Technology in Singapore (2nd Edition)

Following the successful launch of the Law & Technology seminar on 23 May, the second edition of Law and Technology in Singapore  is now available. This edition offers a timely exploration of how emerging technologies are reshaping legal...

No content

A problem occurred while loading content.

Previous Next

Terms Of Use Privacy Statement Copyright 2025 by Singapore Academy of Law
Back To Top