JMW’s Business Crime & Regulatory team secured a full acquittal for a client facing two public order charges following a trial in the Magistrates’ Court.

Public Order Allegations

Our client was accused of offences under sections 4 and 4A of the Public Order Act 1986 following an incident at a retail premises. The prosecution alleged that our client had intentionally caused harassment, alarm or distress and had used threatening words or behaviour with the intention of causing another person to fear immediate violence. Our client denied both charges.

How JMW Helped

Daniel McGlashan, Solicitor in JMW’s Business Crime & Regulatory team, represented the client.

We reviewed the prosecution evidence, took detailed instructions and prepared the case for trial. This included considering the CCTV and medical evidence, identifying inconsistencies in the prosecution case and preparing the cross-examination of the prosecution witnesses.

Full Acquittal

After the prosecution presented its case on the first charge, it was successfully argued that the evidence was insufficient and the charge was dismissed.

The trial continued on the second charge. Following the remaining evidence and closing submissions, the Magistrates found our client not guilty, concluding that the prosecution had failed to prove the necessary intent. Our client was therefore acquitted of both charges and a Defence Costs Order was granted.