Summary
Our youth client was arrested and subsequently charged with s.18 grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, to which he later pleaded guilty. Our client was charged alongside an adult co-defendant, however our team was able to sever our client’s case so that he was heard in the Youth Court, rather than the Crown Court. Thanks to the strength of the mitigation put forward, the Judge sentenced our client to a referral order, avoiding a custodial sentence.
Details of the Incident
The co-defendant had initiated a physical altercation with the victim, where he physically assaulted the victim and smashed a glass bottle over his head. Our client also hit the victim over the head multiple times with a glass bottle, however it did not smash. The victim suffered from a 3cm wound to the head as the result of this assault.
GBH with intent is considered extremely serious under UK law and is met with severe penalties. Even our client, who was seventeen at the time of the incident, was at risk of a Detention and Training Order (DTO), which is a youth equivalent of a prison sentence.
Severing the Co-Defendants
Senior Solicitor Kajel Doshi represented our youth client who was aged 17 when the matter appeared in court. Our client had originally been jointly charged alongside his adult co-defendant.
Recognising the significant risks and unfairness that could arise from the two being tried together, Kajel successfully argued before the court that our client’s case should be severed from the adult proceedings. This ensured that the young person’s circumstances were considered in their own right within the Youth Court framework, which is better suited to their age and needs.
Defence at Court
When in the Youth Court, our client pleaded guilty. Thanks to Kajel’s persuasive mitigation, the court was convinced that there was no need to further adjourn the case for a pre-sentence report to prepared, which would have significantly delayed the matter further. Kajel was able to clearly explain our client’s background, genuine remorse, and positive steps towards rehabilitation, securing a swift and constructive outcome.
As a result of this skilled advocacy, the court imposed an immediate referral order, enabling the young person to access vital support and intervention straightaway, rather than being left in limbo for weeks awaiting further hearings.
This is a fantastic outcome considering the seriousness of the offence committed and showcases the strength of Kajel’s advocacy. Our client was extremely relieved with this outcome and thankful to Kajel for her support and guidance.
Looking for a specialist youth solicitor?
We understand how serious it is when a child is facing a criminal charge and the effect this can have on their future. At Lawtons, we have an experienced team of youth specialists who are experienced in defending children on criminal matters. If a child has been arrested, reach out to us today and let us help guide you through the process. Call us on 0333 577 0522 or visit our enquiries page.
