Singapore: Accused persons receiving legal aid barred from casinos

SINGAPORE – Individuals receiving criminal legal aid are no longer allowed to enter casinos and jackpot rooms here, or access their Singapore Pools betting account while they receive representation.

The new rule, which came into force on April 1, affects accused persons receiving defence aid from both the Public Defender’s Office (PDO) and under the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme (Clas), said the PDO on its website. Clas is run by Pro Bono SG, a charity.

These individuals will be allowed to access gambling venues only within two weeks after they no longer receive legal aid, or when their case is concluded in court, in a move welcomed by criminal lawyers.