Visit JCPCUKSC/2019/0106
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CRIME
Director of Public Prosecutions (Respondent) v Ziegler and others (Appellants)
Case summary
Case ID
UKSC/2019/0106
Parties
Appellant(s)
Ziegler and others
Respondent(s)
Director of Public Prosecutions
Issue
In criminal proceedings arising out of protest activity: (1) is deliberate physically obstructive conduct by protesters capable of constituting a lawful excuse for the purposes of s.137 of the Highways Act 1980?; and (2) what is the test to be applied by an appellate court to an assessment of the decision of the trial court in respect of a statutory defence of ‘lawful excuse’ when Convention rights are engaged in a criminal matter?
Facts
The Appellants took part in a demonstration protesting the Defence and Security International weapons fair at the Excel Centre. They were charged with obstructing the highway, contrary to section 137 Highways Act 1980. They were acquitted at Trial because their actions fell within the "lawful authority or excuse" defence contained in section 137 Highways Act 1980. The Director for Public Prosecutions appealed successfully by way of case stated to the High Court. The Appellants now appeal to the Supreme Court.
Date of issue
1 May 2019
Judgment appealed
Judgment details
Judgment date
25 June 2021
Neutral citation
[2021] UKSC 23
Judgment links
Judgment summary
25 June 2021
Appeal
Justices
Hearing dates
Start date
12 January 2021
End date
12 January 2021
Watch hearings
12 January 2021 - Morning session
12 January 2021 - Afternoon session
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Change log
Last updated 16 April 2024