Summary
Our client was facing two domestic abuse charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation against his ex-partner. Partner Joanne Cestaro represented our client, where thanks to Joanne’s expertise, our client was found not guilty of both charges.
Details of the Case
At the time the incident was alleged to occur, the complainant and our client had been in a relationship for two years. The complainant alleged that our client had assaulted and strangled her, after she confronted our client once seeing messages on his mobile phone which led her to believe he was having an affair.
Bedfordshire Police later arrested our client and conveyed him to Kempston Police Station to be interviewed. Our client gave a full account stating that this relationship had become abusive after approximately four months, that he was initially attacked, and any physical contact he used would have been in lawful self-defence as he tried to protect himself.
Our Defence
Following these allegations our client was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation, to which he pleaded not guilty.
Partner Joanne Cestaro represented our client throughout his court proceedings, preparing a strong defence case ahead of the court proceedings.
Our client maintained that throughout the relationship the complainant was frequently violent towards him and that she initiated the attack after seeing messages on his phone from his sister, which the complainant believed was evidence of our client having an affair.
Our client argued that any injuries sustained by the complainant were a result of him raising his hands above his face and pushing the complainant away in lawful self-defence.
Court
If convicted of the charges, our client faced the risk of prison time, with both assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation carrying maximum sentences of up to five years each.
The case was heard at Huntingdon Crown Court over a three-day trial where, thanks to the quality of Joanne’s defence presentation, alongside the advocacy of barrister Mark Savage, our client was found not guilty of both charges.
This outcome was brilliant for our client, allowing him to move on with his life. This case highlights Joanne’s expertise and showcases the benefits of instructing experts in criminal defence to ensure that you can receive the best possible outcome.
Looking for a specialist domestic abuse solicitor?
Being charged with domestic abuse has the potential to have serious and life-long consequences on your future. You need a team of specialist criminal defence solicitors on your side to make sure that you receive the best possible outcome. With over 250 years combined experience, Lawtons will be there for you every step of the way and will ensure that you receive the highest level of care and attention. If you or a loved one are facing a criminal charge, get in touch with a member of our team today.
