Communications Offences

Prosecution for cases involving comments made online, via messaging apps, or on social media are increasingly common, and Quentin has been at the forefront of defending some of the most high profile case of this sort. 

Quentin has significant experience in defending allegations involving malicious communications, threats, or grossly offensive messages. Such prosecutions are often under the Communications Act 19 or the Malicious Communications Act 19. Such is the extent of his experience that Quentin is often asked to appear as a media commentator in respect of cases involving freedom of expression argument. 

Quentin recognises that cases of this sort are often brought against persons with no previous convictions and any prosecution can have serious personal and professional consequences, even before a case reaches court. He therefore is careful to defend such cases with a sensitive and personal approach, whilst at the same time ensuring that representation is incisive and effective. 

Quentin has extensive experience in defending communications offences, including high-profile cases involving Members of Parliament, Premier League footballers, businesspersons and other individuals in the public eye. These cases often attract media interest and require both careful handling behind the scenes and strong, principled advocacy in court.

Where appropriate, Quentin will forcefully advance freedom of expression arguments, drawing on the protections afforded by the European Convention on Human Rights and UK case law. Not every controversial or strongly-worded message is a criminal offence, and Quentin is experienced in arguing that a Court considers the context, intent, and public interest is taken into account when looking at allegations of this sort. Quentin works closely with clients to prepare a tailored and strategic defence, whether the allegation involves a tweet, private message, video, or online post.

If you are facing a communications-related allegation, particularly one where words or actions are taken out of context or misinterpreted, Quentin offers effective, expert advice and powerful representation whether at the pre-charge or Court stage of proceedings.