From Bus Brawl to Wrongful Actual Bodily Harm Conviction

Ms. F and her friends had gotten on a bus to Edmonton, along with a group of boys from her school and from a neighbouring college. What began as a fun prank spiralled out of control amongst the boys, resulting in a fistfight between them. Ms. F ran to the front of the bus to see the commotion. The nature of the fight resulted in an arrest – with Ms. F being charged with actual bodily harm, and sent to trial.  

Terrified for her future, she immediately contacted us to represent her and share her side of the story. Our assault solicitors sprang into action, determined to uncover the truth of the matter. They initiated their own investigation by meticulously analyzing all evidence submitted by the police and the prosecution, searching for any inconsistencies or biases against our client, particularly in relation to the charge of actual bodily harm. Following this, they conducted their own inquiry and collaborated with forensic experts to examine CCTV footage from the bus, interviewed the others who were also present at the scene, gathered character statements from our client’s friends and family members, and strategized and analyzed the evidence to prove our client’s truth. 

During the trial, our assault solicitors submitted overwhelming evidence that pointed to our client’s innocence – unfortunately, the jury found her guilty. Determined to keep fighting, our defence team recognised the wrongful conviction, and knew that such a conviction would wreck our young client’s life for the foreseeable future. They immediately filed an appeal, and fought for a re-trial.  

During the re-trial, our criminal defence solicitors meticulously reviewed all evidence, gathered new statements from witnesses and our client, providing additional context and information. They definitively proved our client’s innocence, establishing that she was merely present on the bus and had no involvement in any violent interaction. This conviction, initially for a different charge, was wrongful and damaging to her reputation. Confronted with the truth, the appellate court acknowledged the earlier error, leading to the immediate grant of an appeal. Thanks to our assault solicitors’ efforts, the wrongful conviction for actual bodily harm was overturned, allowing our client to reclaim her freedom. 

A wrongful conviction is not the final step, and the appeals process is a key part of ensuring that justice is accessible to all. If you or someone you know is in a similar situation, please don’t hesitate to contact us now. We’re here to help defend your rights and protect your interests.  

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