"Fear Grips Legal Community as Top Human Rights Barrister Faces Contempt Charge A leading human rights barrister, Rajiv Menon KC, is set to stand trial next week for allegedly breaching a judge's directions during the trial of six Palestine Action activists who were accused of a 2024 direct action protest at an Elbit Systems UK arms factory in Filton, near Bristol. The prosecution of Menon KC has sent shockwaves through the legal community, with the chair of the Criminal Bar Association warning that the move has left many lawyers fearful of doing their job. The case has sparked concerns about the limits of free speech and the potential chilling effect on the ability of lawyers to vigorously defend their clients in court. As the trial approaches, the implications of this high-stakes case are being closely watched by lawyers, judges, and human rights advocates alike."
CBA chair says contempt charge over closing speech by Rajiv Menon KC has left lawyers fearful of doing their jobThe prosecution of a leading human rights barrister for contempt of court over his closing speech during a trial of Palestine Action activists has left lawyers fearful of doing their job, the chair of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA) has said.Rajiv Menon KC is due to stand trial next week, accused of breaching the judge’s directions in the trial of six people for a 2024 direct action protest at an arms factory of the Israeli subsidiary Elbit Systems UK in Filton, near Bristol. Continue reading...
