Client Acquitted of Assault Charges as Mental Health Takes Center Stage

Mr. S had struggled with symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia and chronic mental illness for most of his life, and required twenty-four hour care. During a particularly difficult period, his parents called the police, afraid that he would hurt himself. The police showed up and forcefully placed him under arrest – and charged him with assault of a police officer. His family, fearful of what could happen next, reached out to us for help.  

Our assault lawyer immediately launched into action, determined to make sure that Mr. S was granted a fair trial, and had clear access to justice. After meticulously analysing all evidence submitted by the police and the prosecution, our defence lawyer conducted their own thorough legal investigation. After speaking to our client’s family members and social support workers, our legal team contacted two psychiatrists to conduct a mental health evaluation on our client. 2 objective psychiatric reports proved that our client was suffering from mental illnesses, did not understand the consequences of his actions, and was unfit to stand for the trial. Furthermore, he was afraid during the arrest and accidentally hurt the police officer – an accident which does not deserve a criminal charge. 

Before the trial even began, our defence lawyers submitted the overwhelming evidence collected to the court, and requested that the prosecution drop all charges, rather than waste taxpayer resources on an unnecessary trial, which would further harm our client’s mental health and create further stress and anxiety for his family. Thanks to our defence lawyers’ persuasive and empathetic arguments, the prosecution dropped all charges, allowing our client to seek the medical help he needs.  

A mistake made during a wrongful arrest can result in real assault charges against a police officer being taken against you – a charge that carries a prison sentence of up to 2 years. 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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