Choo's former fellow MP and Senior Counsel, K. Shanmugam, represented Choo. Shanmugam pushed for a fine instead of a jail sentence. Petition letters by grassroots leaders, vouching for Choo's character, described Choo as "hardworking", "compassionate", "selfless" and dedicated to community service. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong had said that Choo has done the right thing in resigning from the party and as an MP, before pleading guilty in court.
