Balancing scales of justice for trainee lawyers who cheated in Bar exam

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There has been some controversy in recent years in the sentencing of offenders in Singapore who have 'promising future'; e.g. university undergraduates. There's the perception that they can get away with a slap on the wrist (i.e. a lighter sentence) given that they can contribute more to society in the future, and that it will be a waste of their potential if this is thwarted by their criminal records. Think Monica Baey's incident.

The move was described in the decision as "not intended as a punishment" but rather "a little more stretching of time for (them) to reflect on the error of their ways".

To avoid having their actions leave a permanent stain on their records in their nascent legal career, the High Court made an unusual decision to protect their identities.

Some argue that their dishonest acts - they cheated in many papers, including, ironically, one on ethics - should have disqualified them from a profession where they are stewards to uphold justice.

One wonders if trainee teachers or police officers caught cheating in the National Institute of Education or Home Team Academy exams will be allowed to continue in their professions.

It would also be harsh to have one's professional career ended before it has even begun

A case that pricks my conscience is the teenager who played a prank by lying on Instagram in May last year that he was infected with Covid-19. For his two posts that were online for 15 minutes, the 19-year-old was convicted in court last year and sentenced to nine months' probation and 40 hours of community service. He was named and photographed for posterity online.

Qns: 

1. "Schools have failed to impart the right values to students." Do you agree?

2. To what extent is it possible ‘to make the punishment fit the crime’? (Cam. 2013)

3. Too much attention is given to criminals; not enough to their victims. Is this true? (Cam. 2005)