Background to the dispute

Mr BA is a successful Optician, upon moving into his new house he needed to erect a new fence around his property as the old one was falling down. When he engaged contractors to put up the fence, he immediately faced extreme hostility from his neighbours on one side. He soon found himself engaged in a full-blown boundary dispute. His neighbours contacted the Police and made a series of complaints about his conduct which included harassment contrary to the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 contents and criminal damage contrary to the Criminal Damage Act 1971  . At this stage BA approached specialist Criminal Defence Barrister Quentin Hunt to represent him on a Direct Access basis. 

Professional concerns

As a regulated professional, BA was extremely concerned about the possibility of facing criminal charges and the effect that this may have upon his personal and professional reputation as well as any potential action by his professional regulator. 

Upon instruction, Quentin had a meeting with his client where they discussed the matter and reviewed detailed evidence that Mr BA had in respect of the case and his interactions with his neighbours. 

Quentin’s submissions to the police

Quentin then put together a carefully drafted set of submissions to the police, both putting forward evidence that was consistent with Mr BA's evidence and making submissions as to how the case that the police were thinking of putting forward does not meet either the evidential or public interest tests for charging decisions under the Code for Crown Prosecutors. 

Importance of early representation

Quentin's submissions were considered by the police and to his client's delight they were accepted. The police confirmed in writing that no further action was to be taken against Quentin's client and he was able to continue his life without the threat of prosecution hanging over him. 

If you find yourself under police investigation it is never too early to gain effective representation. 

Quentin Hunt is a criminal defence barrister of over 25 years’ experience who specialises in pre-charge representation for professional people. Quentin's belief is that ‘the best way to win a trial is not to have a trial at all’ and he has an excellent reputation for making effective submissions to the police that result in his clients not being charged with criminal offences. 

Should you find yourself in this position you may contact Quentin for a free no-obligation discussion about your case.