The judicial system can be scary. Filled with inexplicable jargon and the threat of punishment hanging over the entire proceedings, there’s a long-held belief that one’s day in court doesn’t profess the most encouraging outlook.
If there is a shepherd to lead you through the unforgiving legal terrain, let it be Sadhana Rai, a pro bono criminal defence lawyer with Pro Bono SG. A member of the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme (CLAS) since 2015, Rai’s commitment to providing legal assistance to those unable to afford representation has greatly impacted the lives of many people facing criminal charges.
CLAS provides legal aid in collaboration with the Public Defender’s Office (PDO) by handling a portion of its cases. As a criminal defence lawyer, Rai represents accused individuals who would otherwise go unrepresented in court.
“I would listen to my clients, attend court events, explore possible defences, engage relevant experts when necessary, and work to achieve a more equitable outcome for them.”
Sadhana Rai breaks down her job scope
She does not specialise in a specific type of criminal case. Instead, she takes on projects based on their individual needs and legal complexities.
Pro Bono SG, where Rai works, is a registered charity that aims to facilitate access to justice for the needy and vulnerable. The organisation offers a range of legal services. While most are provided free of charge, others might have eligibility and co-payment requirements that are determined through means and merits tests.
Rai’s origin story is rooted in her deep desire to rectify injustices she perceived or experienced. Advocating for meaningful causes and persuading others to see things from her perspective appealed to her.
In her early career, Rai worked for a private law firm. After three years, she felt deflated. It is an all-consuming profession, and Rai was worn out from the grind.
“I felt I had nothing left to give and that I had lost sight of my purpose. The sheen of private practice had lost its allure, and I tendered in 2015 without much of a plan.”
She rediscovered her light when she joined Pro Bono SG that same year. There, she found a community of like-minded individuals who shared her passion for serving the less fortunate.
As a pro bono lawyer, one of the challenges Rai faces is correcting misconceptions about the level of commitment that pro bono lawyers bring to their cases. It’s the same level of dedication and service any other lawyer would provide.
Despite all of this, Rai finds her job immensely rewarding. For her, bonding with clients facing serious charges and discovering their humanity is a surreal experience.
Even the most hardened offenders deserve to be heard and have their stories told. The lawyer recounts an instance where she achieved an acquittal for one of her clients whose family was alienated and doubtful of his innocence. As a result of this win and the impact she had on someone’s life, her commitment to this path was cemented.
In terms of legal aid for the underprivileged, Rai says that progress has been made through collaborative efforts between the government, lawyers, and organisations such as Pro Bono SG.
Nevertheless, she empathises that underlying inequalities, such as limited opportunities for employment and education, contribute to legal problems. By accepting ex-offenders without prejudice and supporting meaningful causes that serve the underprivileged, society can level the playing field.
In the meantime, Rai will remain in the underdog’s corner, fighting the good fight.
Producer: Adora Wong
Styling: Chia Wei Choong
Photography: Stefan Khoo
Photography assistant: Rex
Videography: Isaku Lim
Hair & makeup: Aung Apichai
