Not guilty verdict on a Court Martial

We are pleased to announce that Alexander Rynn and Dingle Clark (Goldsmith Chambers) have achieved a not guilty verdict for our client in a recent Court Martial case, safeguarding both his reputation and potential liberty.

Our client, a serving member of the Royal Air Force, faced a charge of threatening behaviour likely to cause a disturbance. This charge was initially brought against him in December 2023. Upon receiving a recommendation from a colleague who had previously benefited from Alex’s assistance in a Court Martial, our client sought Alex’s representation.

Alex diligently met with the client on multiple occasions to gather instructions and thoroughly understand the circumstances of the case. With his extensive experience in representing individuals across the Royal Navy,  British Army, and Royal Air Force, Alex was well-equipped to offer guidance and support. When our client was formally charged under the Armed Forces Act 2006, he chose to elect Court Martial rather than partake in a Summary Hearing. The case subsequently proceeded to a Court Martial.

The Trial

The trial took place at Catterick Military Crown Court, presided over by a judge and a mixed Board for 3 days. Due to other commitments and his excellent reputation, Alex briefed Dingle Clark, of Counsel. Together they represented our client, drawing upon their considerable experience defending cases in numerous Court Martials. It was argued strongly that even if the alleged threatening behaviour had occurred it was not sufficiently serious to cause a disturbance.

The Verdict

The Board agreed with our client’s defence and returned a verdict of not guilty, thereby sparing him from a potential sentence of up to 90 days in the Military Corrective Training Centre in Colchester. Our client was obviously delighted with the outcome, and we are proud to have delivered justice, allowing him to continue serving his country without impediment.

Photo by Lincoln Holley

RAF aircraft