Case Summary
Our client was charged with three offences relating to domestic abuse to which he pleaded not guilty. Partner Paul Dillon represented our client on a privately funded basis where, thanks to the strength of Paul’s defence preparation, our client was found unanimously not guilty of all three charges.
Details of the Case
At the time the incident was alleged to have occurred, the complainant and our client had been in a relationship for two years. They had just moved in together after finding out that the complainant was pregnant.
The complainant alleged our client had consistently exhibited controlling behaviour over the course of their relationship. The alleged incident in question involved our client repeatedly assaulting the complainant over a period of a few hours, causing a fracture to her cheekbone and bleeding to her left eye.
The incident allegedly occurred after our client confronted the complainant as he suspected she was cheating on him. She stated that he then proceeded to assault her by repeatedly punching her to the face and head and then proceeded to kick her stomach.
It was also alleged that at one stage our client grabbed the complainant’s throat, restricting her breathing. She later left and went to the hospital to have her injuries seen to.
Police Interview
When arrested and interviewed by Essex Police at Colchester Police Station, our client gave an account denying the allegations. He stated that he had no idea how the complainant got those injuries but that they were not caused by him.
He also denied the strangulation allegation and denied any instances of controlling behaviour. He maintained that he did not have access to her phone, nor did she have access to his.
Our Defence
Following his Police interview, our client was charged with coercive and controlling behaviour, assault occasioning grievous bodily harm (GBH) (section 18) and strangulation. He chose to instruct Partner Paul Dillon on a privately funded basis due to his expertise in defending serious criminal allegations.
Paul prepared a robust defence ahead of our client’s trial, where he asserted that our client never inflicted any unlawful violence on the complainant nor did he control her. Solicitor Christopher Wilson assisted Paul in preparing our client’s defence which included extensive analysis of our client’s phone downloads. The evidence from these downloads contradicted the complainant’s account of our client’s alleged controlling behaviour.
In relation to the GBH and strangulation charges, our client suspected that the complainant had either inflicted the injuries to herself or had another person do so, but he maintained that he did not cause any of them.
Outcome
Our client’s case was heard at Chelmsford Crown Court for a six-day trial. Barrister Beth Crocker of 15NBS represented our client at court. Our client was understandably very distressed throughout the trial due to the severity of the charges. If our client was found guilty, he would have been at risk of a prison sentence of up to 12 years.
Following the conclusion of the trial, the jury deliberated for only 20 minutes before returning unanimous not guilty verdicts in relation to all three charges. This was a fantastic result for our client and he was extremely grateful to both Paul and Beth for all their guidance and expertise.
Client Testimonial
Professional, Supportive and Successful
I highly recommend Lawtons Criminal Defence Solicitors. A special thank you to Paul Dillon. He was always available, responsive, professional, and supportive, taking the time to answer our questions and guide us through every stage of the process. His dedication and commitment gave us direction during an incredibly difficult time. Christopher Wilson was also extremely helpful and professional throughout the case. A special thank you as well to Beth Crocker, the barrister instructed by Paul Dillon, whose outstanding advocacy resulted in a Not Guilty verdict after a 6-day trial. Thank you all for your hard work, dedication, and excellent representation. I would highly recommend Lawtons to anyone in need of expert criminal defence solicitors.
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.
