Naomi Duckworth assists in securing directions for release for two Prisoners

Naomi Duckworth, instructed by Matthew Bellusci of Duncan Lewis Solicitors, assisted in securing directions for release for two prisoners who had been sentenced to indeterminate sentences under the Imprisonment for Public Protection scheme (“IPP”).

Both prisoners were significantly over tariff, and as such, had a complex and long procedural history.

One case involved a prisoner who required the assistance of a litigation friend, as it was deemed that he no longer had capacity. His lack of capacity and how this impacted his risk was the focus of the hearing, which involved Court of Protection principles.

The other case included a prisoner who was a teenager when sentenced, and had previously absconded during his sentence. Not all experts and professionals recommended release. However, through robust questioning Naomi was able to highlight that the concerns held by those who did not recommend release were based on assumptions as opposed to known facts, and that due to a personality disorder there was no further risk reduction work to be undertaken either within custody or in open conditions.

Whilst Naomi has moved away from parole hearings since taking tenancy, the work that she has undertaken in the area during her pupillage has enriched and informed her criminal practice.

To instruct Naomi, please contact her clerk Abigail Lockett