MURDER - ATTEMPTED MURDER - BATTERED WIFE SYNDROME - NOT GUILTY - DISCHARGE FIREARM

CASE STUDY – Attempted Murder

The Facts: Client married to a violent man who repeatedly raped and tortured her during a long marriage. Client was armed with a pistol. On approaching her estranged husband, there was a struggle and the pistol was discharged twice. Client charged with attempted murder, discharging a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and other matters.

The Result: Not guilty on those charges. Jury took 25 minutes to return verdicts. Evidence of her husband was referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions to determine whether or not criminal charges should be brought against him. Client found to be acting in self defence and it was demonstrated that she did not intentionally discharge the firearm.

This case received significant publicity and was ultimately the subject of an episode of Australian Story on the ABC. The client was in custody when first seen by one of our criminal law accredited specialists who quickly obtained bail and developed an extremely strong defence case. The matter proceeded by way of committal hearing prior to the jury trial. Expert evidence was called during the trial for the defence case.

If you need advice from a criminal lawyer, contact one of our criminal law specialists immediately at our Parramatta or Sydney office.

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