Freya Rock’s client acquitted of domestic threats to kill with a knife

Freya Rock, instructed by Mick Rees of Levy & Co solicitors, represented a man accused of threatening his ex-partner with a knife and making a threat to kill, as well as a more minor offence of battery.

The complainant had alleged that Freya’s client had approached her during an argument with a kitchen knife whilst threatening to kill her.  The prosecution also called neighbours as witnesses who had heard the complainant screaming from a window for help.  Freya’s client denied being in possession of a knife or making any threats.

Following a trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, in which Freya cross-examined the complainant and neighbours, Freya’s client was unanimously acquitted by the jury of the two more serious charges, and convicted only of the battery.  

On conviction for the more serious charges, the starting point for sentence would have been a significant period in custody.  Having spent three weeks remanded in custody at the start of the case before a successful bail application, he was ultimately sentenced to a conditional discharge.