THE China-born wife of politician Tan Lead Shake, who was previously charged with the murder of her brother-in-law in June, has escaped what could have been a death sentence.

Her lawyer Mr Subhas Anandan told a district court on Tuesday that the murder charge was reduced to that of culpable homicide not amounting to murder.

The decision was finalised at a pre-trial conference before the High Court last Tuesday on the grounds that his client had 'diminished responsiblity' for the crime, he added.

Accused persons have been known to escape the death sentence on the strength of psychiatric reports showing that mental disorders diminished their responsibility for the act.

The 26-year-old Singapore permanent resident Wu Yun Yun now faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Wu, who is remanded at Changi Women's Prison, appeared fatigued when her case was mentioned almost immediately after she was led into the dock by police officers.

She glanced at the public gallery a number of times, showing no expression when a court interpreter informed her of the reduced charge. Her husband was not in court.

Wu 26, is alleged to have fatally stabbed her brother-in-law Tan Lead Sane, 34, on June 28.

His wife, Madam Huang Mei Zhe, 34, was injured in the attack, which took place in the Paya Lebar house the couples shared.

She had been previously accused of hurting her mother-in-law Madam Ng Bee Hion, 63, on the same day with a knife.

However that charge has also been reduced to that of voluntarily causing hurt.

Mr Anandan said that he has sent a letter to Wu's family informing them of the charges she now faces.

She intends to plead guilty at a High Court hearing scheduled on March 23 next year, added Mr Anandan.