Nerida Harford-Bell represented Tanweer Ali in the case. She was instructed by Abid Hussain of Hussain Solicitors, Birmingham.
Tanweer Ali was charged with rapes, false imprisonment and indecent assaults of two child victims.
Nerida persuaded the Judge to rule that there should be no adverse inference of him not giving evidence at trial. She argued that as a vulnerable person with complex mental health issues it would be undesirable for him to give evidence in the case. Mr Ali was found borderline fit to stand trial and required an intermediary. The Judge ultimately agreed with Nerida's submissions.
This case has been widely reported in the media, including BBC and Guardian.
Nerida Harford-Bell is a member of the Garden Court Chambers Criminal Defence Team.