Acquittal of dangerous driving charges at Newport Crown Court. Drystone Chambers Associate Member Umar Ali for the defendant

Acquittal

Umar Ali obtained an acquittal for his client in a serious case heard at Newport Crown Court. The trial, which spanned four days, centred on an allegation of causing serious injury by dangerous driving – a charge that carried the risk of a significant custodial sentence if proven. Umar was instructed by Akhmed Yaqoob of Maurice Andrews Solicitors.

Details of the incident

The incident followed a dispute between the defendant and the complainant. According to the prosecution, the defendant drove his van while the complainant was hanging onto the side window. This resulted in a catastrophic collision with a lamppost, causing the complainant to suffer multiple, life-threatening injuries. The case was further complicated by the presence of multiple eyewitnesses and forensic evidence that initially appeared to support the prosecution’s account.

Defence strategy

Umar Ali’s defence centred on self-defence. During cross-examination of the complainant and key witnesses, inconsistencies were revealed exposing critical flaws in the prosecution’s case.

Unanimous verdict

Despite the seemingly overwhelming evidence, the jury delivered a unanimous not guilty verdict after just one hour of deliberation.

About the Barrister

Umar Ali was called to the bar in 2015. He has extensive experience across the full spectrum of criminal matters, including cases involving attempted murder, grievous bodily harm (GBH), aggravated burglary, drug offences, weapons offences, fraud, and other serious crime.

To instruct Umar, contact Ryan Bartlett on 020 7404 1881.