In the same week in January 2023, Markus Findlay secured two acquittals in two Crown Court trials for Hollingsworth Edwards Solicitors.
In the first matter, Markus appeared at Isleworth Crown Court where his client faced one count of domestic burglary. The Prosecution relied upon forensic evidence and details of the client’s previous convictions. In his cross-examination, Markus successfully challenged the Prosecution’s fingerprint expert who had 31 years of experience and who held the view that the fingerprint recovered from the burgled property was “conclusive” evidence due to the number of ridge characteristics matching his client’s own fingerprint. Markus highlighted the limitations of her expert opinion alongside several flaws in the police investigation.
The jury deliberated for a total of 5 hours and 15 minutes before delivering a majority not guilty verdict. Mr Recorder S Ramasamy KC presided over the matter and credited Markus on his closing speech, saying “this was a case where advocacy prevailed”. Markus was helpfully assisted by Sara Tombolis of the firm who also attended court at key stages of the trial.
Later in the week, Markus attended Southwark Crown Court to represent his client who was indicted with having a bladed article in a public place without good reason or lawful excuse. His client was 21-years old at the time and works as chef in a luxury 5-star hotel. He was unaware that one of his work knives was on his person when he was arrested in central London after a busy shift. The jury deliberated for 26 minutes before delivering a unanimous not guilty verdict preserving his client’s good character. Markus was grateful for the support of Brendan Bagshaw who had conduct of the case from its early stages.
Markus accepts instructions in criminal, extradition, regulatory, and public law matters. He prosecutes and defends in the Crown Court, Magistrates’ Court, and Youth Court.
