Garden Court Chambers stands in full support of Rajiv Menon KC following the outcome of the hearing on 19 June before Mr Justice Jeremy Johnson.
The unprecedented contempt of court proceedings brought against Rajiv, a senior silk and former Head of Chambers, undermine and diminish our system of criminal justice.
The administration of justice depends upon an independent Bar willing and able to act in the best interests of their clients, fearlessly and with integrity.
This attempt to criminalise a member of the Bar over the contents of a closing speech made in defence of their client has sent shock waves through the legal profession.
The impact of these proceedings is already being felt by the criminal defence community, especially juniors, with concerns that public confidence in the independence of the Bar and the integrity of our system of justice will be damaged.
The original contempt proceedings, which were subsequently found to have been brought unlawfully, were initially subject to reporting restrictions and were pursued as Rajiv’s client, one of the Filton Four, was facing re-trial and subsequent sentencing.
Despite the concerning nature of the attempt to prosecute him, Rajiv’s absolute priority throughout has been the discharge of his duty to represent his client fearlessly and to do everything possible to seek the best outcome for his client.
Support for Rajiv from the Bar and the wider legal community has been overwhelming. Many friends, colleagues, and supporters have spoken up, attended hearings and expressed their solidarity with Rajiv.
After a day-long hearing, Mr Justice Jeremy Johnson’s order of today, 22 June, will lead to Rajiv being referred to a Presiding Judge for his or her consideration of whether to pursue a criminal prosecution against him for contempt of court.
We now await the outcome of that as the next step in this already protracted process.
Whatever happens, Garden Court Chambers will continue to support Rajiv through this difficult time.
