World · Singapore Bureau
Landlord ordered to pay costs after caught taking online course during trial
A landlord embroiled in a tenancy dispute has been ordered to bear legal costs after a magistrate discovered he was attending an online course during court proceedings. The discovery was made when audio from the course inadvertently played during the hearing.
LSN Singapore ·
The landlord's divided attention during the trial led to an unexpected consequence when sound from his online coursework became audible in the courtroom. The magistrate, hearing the unmistakable audio from the course playing on the defendant's phone, took note of the apparent lack of focus on the proceedings.
The incident raised questions about the landlord's commitment to properly engaging with the legal matter at hand. Attending to personal educational pursuits during a formal court hearing was viewed as disrespectful to the judicial process.
In response to the conduct, the magistrate issued an order requiring the landlord to pay the costs associated with the trial. The penalty served as a reminder that court proceedings demand the full attention and respect of all parties involved.
The case underscores the importance of proper courtroom decorum, particularly in disputes where significant legal and financial interests are at stake. Such conduct can negatively influence a magistrate's assessment of a party's credibility and seriousness in presenting their case.