Andy Fitzpatrick

Practice

Criminal law

Practices a full range of criminal defence work. Particularly interested in Animal Rights, Environmental protests, Anti-war and Civil Liberties cases. Has also been involved, both as instructing solicitor and subsequently as Junior Counsel in a number of high profile murder and conspiracy trials.

Recent cases have included

3-day trial for ABH on policeman (missing CCTV evidence) (2008)

Appeal by way of case stated against Magistrates Court conviction for racially aggravated offence Section 4 Public Order / Crime and Disorder Act. (2007)

Appeal against IPP sentence for robbery offences with short tariff (2007)

R v Ablewhite & ors. [2006] Nottingham Crown Court (unreported, the Staffordshire guinea pig farm case ? conspiracy under Serious and Organised Crimes Act 2006)

Leading Junior in a major murder case involving organised criminal gangs in Manchester.

Appearances at the Court of Appeal in fresh evidence cases against conviction and appeals against sentence.

Prison law

Instructed in all forms of prison law including representation at adjudication and lifer panel hearings

Mental Health

Has an interest and experience in cases involving mental health law.

Professional Associations

Member of the Manchester Duty Solicitor Scheme for 15 years
Child Care Panel for Solicitors
Criminal Bar association
Inquest

Background and personal profile

Has a background as a solicitor working exclusively within the Legal Aid framework for 20 years (including 8 years as a higher rights advocate), with particular interest in family and crime, but specialising in crime for the last 5 years before being called to the bar.