We represented a law student who was charged with two counts of assaulting emergency workers.

The Allegations

It was alleged that two police officers were punched and kicked by our client following a night out with friends in Birmingham city centre.

Our client was instructed to leave the area. However, she was not issued with a formal dispersal notice and refused to leave.

During the interaction, it was alleged that our client punched an officer to the chest area. She denied this allegation.

She was arrested for assault and taken to the police station, where her detention was authorised.

Whilst at the custody desk, it was further alleged that she kicked out at an officer, which she also denied. The case was listed for trial.

Expert Evidence and Vulnerabilities

We instructed a psychiatrist and psychologist to assess our client. Both experts described our client as having a complex neurodevelopmental and mental health profile.

Our client was also assessed as requiring an intermediary to support her participation in proceedings.

Representations to the Crown Prosecution Service

We made detailed representations to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) highlighting disclosure issues which were supported by the expert medical evidence.

The representations invited the CPS to reconsider the case in light of our client’s vulnerabilities and complex needs.

Outcome

Following our representations and consideration of the evidence, the CPS discontinued the proceedings.

Our client was represented by Solicitors, Lauren Clark and Manpreet Hayre.