‘At some of the most traumatic times in our lives Rajiv Menon has represented us with professionalism, integrity and compassion.’ Photograph: Garden Court Chambers View image in fullscreen ‘At some of the most traumatic times in our lives Rajiv Menon has represented us with professionalism, integrity and compassion.’ Photograph: Garden Court Chambers Contempt of court Letters We are shocked that Palestine Action barrister faces contempt proceedings Former clients of Rajiv Menon KC, including Tariq Ali and Hillsborough family members Margaret Aspinall and Sue Roberts , say the charges against him must be dropped. Plus a letter from Andrew Smith
The fight for truth and justice can too often be a hard and long struggle. Navigating the law is complex, and justice depends on lawyers who we can trust – lawyers who listen to our voices, stand up for us, and pursue the truth on our behalf.
Rajiv Menon KC is an experienced and highly respected barrister who has spent his career representing people like us. At some of the most traumatic times in our lives he has represented us with professionalism, integrity and compassion, ensuring that our voices were heard in inquests, inquiries and criminal trials.
We are all deeply shocked that Rajiv is facing contempt proceedings ( Palestine Action barrister’s prosecution criticised as ‘chilling’, 23 July ). As clients we must have confidence that our lawyers can represent us fearlessly and independently. This case risks undermining the fundamental relationship of trust and confidence between clients and their lawyers without which meaningful participation in the justice system is impossible.
We stand with Rajiv and believe that these proceedings must be dropped immediately. Tariq Ali Witness, undercover police inquiry; Margaret Aspinall Mother of James Aspinall, who died in the Hillsborough disaster ; Sue Roberts Sister of Graham Roberts, who died in the Hillsborough disaster; Marieha Hussain Protester acquitted over “coconut” placard ; Tippa Naphtali Cousin of Mi key Powell , who died in police custody; Selma Taha, Divina Riggon, Danae Thomas (King’s Cross Three)
Imran Khan makes a valid case against the charge of contempt against Rajiv Menon KC ( One day, your life and future may depend on a jury. The integrity of that legal process is in peril right now, theguardian.com, 23 July ). I wonder how this charge would stand up to the Hillsborough law , where state actors are required to tell the whole truth when giving evidence.
The disparity of justice meted out to Palestine Action seems to point to inevitable fines or prison when the above law should be giving everyone the opportunity of a fair trial. Apart from that, no advocate should be concerned for their own freedom when defending another citizen, no matter what they have done. Andrew Smith Bolton