Palestine Action barrister’s prosecution criticised as ‘chilling’
Human rights barrister Rajiv Menon KC faces prosecution for contempt of court regarding his closing speech in a 2024 trial involving Palestine Action activists. Legal experts have criticized the move, warning that it could create a chilling effect on the ability of lawyers to represent their clients effectively.
Why it matters
The case raises significant questions about the boundaries of legal advocacy and the potential for political pressure to influence judicial processes.
Menon is accused of breaching a judge’s directions in the trial of six people over a protest in 2024. Photograph: Garden Court Chambers Menon is accused of breaching a judge’s directions in the trial of six people over a protest in 2024. Photograph: Garden Court Chambers Contempt of court Palestine Action barrister’s prosecution criticised as ‘chilling’ CBA chair says contempt charge over closing speech by Rajiv Menon KC has left lawyers fearful of doing their job
Prefer the Guardian on Google The prosecution of a leading human rights barrister for contempt of court over his closing speech during a trial of Palestine Action activists has left lawyers fearful of doing their job, the chair of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA) has said.
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