Reported by the Straits Times on 03rd June 2025
Gloria James-Civetta & Co., a leading law firm in Singapore known for its expertise in complex litigation and eldercare legal matters, represented Active Global Home & Community Care (Singapore) in a recent court case involving the unfortunate death of an elderly client during transport.
The case centered around an incident that took place on February 3, 2021, in which a 76-year-old wheelchair-bound client tragically fell and later passed away after his wheelchair rolled off a van’s lift platform. The incident occurred as he was being assisted at the Ghim Moh Link senior care centre.
Ms. Gloria James-Civetta, Head Lawyer, and Ms. Noelle Teoh of Gloria James-Civetta & Co., served as defence counsel for Active Global Home & Community Care. The defence acknowledged the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the incident, while highlighting the cooperative attitude of the client throughout the investigation and court proceedings.
The legal team emphasised that Active Global had taken steps to review and improve its standard operating procedures in the aftermath of the incident. They also presented evidence demonstrating the organisation’s clean track record and its commitment to providing essential care to the elderly population in Singapore.
The Court noted that this was the first time Active Global had faced such a charge and that the company had fully cooperated with the authorities during the course of the investigation. Taking into account all mitigating factors, the Court imposed a fine, rather than a custodial sentence.
SENTENCE
The Court imposed a fine of S$7,000 on Active Global Home & Community Care (Singapore) for failing to take reasonably practicable measures to ensure the safety of a wheelchair-bound client during transport. In sentencing, the Court took into account the company’s early plea of guilt, full cooperation with authorities, clean safety record, and the steps taken post-incident to enhance safety protocols and staff training. While the outcome was tragic, the Court acknowledged there was no intentional harm and that the organisation had shown accountability and remorse.
