Summary
Our client was accused by a friend from university of sexual assault by touching in November 2021. Lawtons was instructed privately on this case and our client maintained wholeheartedly that he was not guilty of the alleged offence. Following a Trial at Southwark Crown Court in January 2025 where Lawtons provided expert legal representation, our client was found not guilty of the charges.
In Depth
This complex case was dealt with by Managing Director Stephen Halloran of our private client team, with the client also represented at different stages by Maria Karaiskos KC and then at Trial (due to Miss Karaiskos KC being unavailable) by Jane Bickerstaff KC. The allegation arose from an incident at University halls of residence, with our client and the complainant being students at a London University.
The complainant alleged that on an evening in November 2021, our client had sexually touched her on several occasions without her consent. She would later confront him over text message.
As part of the extensive case preparation, we instructed a psychologist to undertake an assessment that revealed a previously undiagnosed developmental disorder. His condition made our client highly suggestible and unable to interpret information around him in the way that a neurotypical person would.
The report we had prepared was considered by an expert instructed by the Prosecution, who agreed with the findings of our expert and described the report we had prepared as “exhaustive” with the additional testing ensuring that the results were fully triangulated. While not providing a defence to the charge, the diagnosis assisted in understanding the communication/interaction by our client after the alleged incident and confirmed vulnerability issues in him.
The Trial process was managed expertly by Jane Bickerstaff KC of 9BR Chambers, and after due consideration, the Jury returned a not guilty verdict on all charges. Our client and his family were extremely grateful to Stephen for his dedication and expertise on this case.
Contact Us
Are you facing similar allegations? If you, a family member, or friend need expert guidance from our specialist Solicitors, please contact our specialist team on 0333 577 0522 or visit our enquiries page.
