BAILII Northern Ireland Recent Decisions

GW v R - Sentencing Appeal

The Northern Ireland Court of Appeal has issued its written reasons for allowing an appeal against a sentence imposed on GW for historic child abuse offences. The appellant claimed the eight-year sentence was manifestly excessive. The court has now provided its detailed judgment on the matter.

R v Rainey & Ors - Murder Conviction Appeal

The Northern Ireland Court of Appeal is hearing appeals against murder convictions and sentences for Glenn Rainey, Walter Alan Ervine, and Robert Spiers. The appeals concern the inferences drawn by the trial judge, his failure to recuse himself, and the admission of background evidence. Tariffs imposed on convicted and pleading parties are also under appeal.

Belvoir Logistics Ltd v Driver and Vehicle Agency - Application for Leave to Appeal

The Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland heard an application for leave to appeal concerning the revocation of an operator's licence and disqualification of a transport manager. The case involves significant regulatory failures related to heavy goods vehicles, including weight, tachograph, and registration violations.

Public Prosecution Service v Stitt - Case Stated Appeal

The Northern Ireland Court of Appeal heard a case stated from the Belfast Magistrates' Court concerning the jurisdiction to prosecute under Article 10 of the Public Order (NI) Order 1987. The core issue is whether a prosecution can proceed without the explicit consent of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPPNI) as required by law.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland v. Robert Clarke - Judicial Review

The Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland heard appeals concerning decisions made by the Sentence Review Commissioners regarding Robert Clarke, who is serving a life sentence. The appeals involve the interpretation and application of rules surrounding life sentences and review processes.