The importance of carefully considering the technical application of the law

Recently, we dealt with a case in which our client was charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. If convicted, this charge could have carried a significant custodial sentence.

The case is a great example of the importance of carefully considering the technical application of the law, and not only the weight of the prosecution’s evidence. A skeleton argument was prepared and submitted to the judge, arguing that the site of the alleged offence could not be considered as a public place and that the charge should therefore be dismissed.

The judge agreed with the contention and the jury were directed to return a Not Guilty verdict. Our client walked free from court.