Summary
After attending a friend’s 15th birthday party, our youth client was accused of attempted rape which he wholly denied. Due to significant court delays, it took over seven years for the trial to take place and for the matter to be concluded. Thanks to our expert legal defence, the jury returned a not guilty verdict after a four-day trial.
Details of the Case
The allegation was reported to the Police eight months after the alleged incident took place, where the complainant stated that our client had attempted to engage in sexual activity with her without her consent.
Our client completely denied the allegation and stated that the incident that she described did not happen at all. Our client was represented by the duty solicitor at the police station but decided afterwards to instruct Lawtons instead due to our expertise in defending serious sexual offences.
Our Defence
Legal Executive Toni Hennessy-Ling took on our client’s case, where she thoroughly analysed the complainant’s account of the alleged incident. In doing so, Toni found inconsistencies in the complainant’s account.
For an offence of this nature, our client was at risk of a lengthy prison sentence, potentially lasting up to seven years. This was understandably a very distressing prospect for our client. Due to significant court delays, over seven years had passed between the date of the allegation and our client’s trial date, which only added to our client’s stress. Toni made sure to provide our client with support and reassurance throughout the duration of the proceedings.
Court
Our client’s case was heard at Snaresbrook Crown Court, where our client was represented by Barrister Andrew Taylor of 3TG Chambers. After a four-day trial, the jury returned a not guilty verdict and our client was acquitted.
The Prosecution then attempted to apply for a non-conviction restraining order. We opposed the application and the judge agreed that making such an order would be disproportionate.
Our client was extremely relieved with this outcome and grateful to Toni for all her support in helping him to achieve such a positive outcome.
Looking for a specialist rape defence solicitor?
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