Defying Stigma & Embracing Compassion Over False Charges of Affray & Weapon Possession

Ms. G had lived with schizophrenia since she was 18, and had gone through range of powerful antipsychotic medications. Shifting from hospital to hospital, she was finally allowed to live on her own, but her medication had strong side effects. Struggling with paranoia, she was fearful of her neighbours and had run into the street with a knife to protect herself – resulting in an arrest, and charges of affray and possession of a bladed weapon.  

Fearful for her future and for her mental health, she contacted us to help. Our team of defence solicitors sprang to action, determined to protect our client and share her side of the story. Their investigation began by analysing all evidence submitted by the prosecution and the police, to ensure that there were no inconsistencies or biases against our client. Our criminal defence solicitors continued their investigation, working with our client’s doctors, medical staff at the hospitals, and family members to understand her mental state.  

Our defence solicitors learned of her extensive medical history, her illnesses, and the kind of medication that she had to take which affected the way she saw the world. Our criminal defence solicitors convened with doctors and with psychiatrists to get to the bottom of her condition, and to prove to the prosecution and the jury that she was not malicious or vindictive, but suffering from severe paranoia. By gathering friends and family members, our defence solicitors were able to prove that she was a kind, caring person, dealing with a harsh mental illness that changed her perception of reality.  

Before the trial even began, our criminal defence solicitors submitted overwhelming evidence that proved our client had no criminal intent, and instead required medical attention. Armed with the facts, our criminal defence solicitors proved that the arrest was wrongful, and that our client was in desperate need of medical attention. Faced with the truth, the prosecution realised their error and dropped all charges, ensuring that our client was free to get the medical care she deserved.  

What could be a call for help, or a call for medical attention, can end up with you in the back of a police car. 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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