We are currently representing Dr George Julian, a journalist who reports on inquest hearings into the deaths of learning disabled and autistic people. Dr Julian has been reporting on the inquest that is touching on the death of Samuel Alban-Stanley. Samuel was 13 years old when he died in April 2020, after suffering a traumatic brain injury.

Given the pandemic and her geographical distance from the court, Dr Julian has requested to attend two pre-inquest review hearings in relation to Samuel’s inquest remotely. The Assistant Coroner for Kent North-East has refused Dr Julian’s request for remote access both times, despite the fact that the Interested Persons to the inquest have been allowed to attend remotely. Dr Julian would like to attend the forthcoming inquest hearing remotely but is concerned she will be refused remote access.

Bindmans solicitor, Shirin Marker, who is representing Dr Julian, said:

It is concerning that the Assistant Coroner has refused our client remote access to these hearings to date. Media and public access to hearings are a vital element of upholding justice and transparency in our legal system. During the current pandemic, it is essential that journalists and the public are able to access hearings safely. We sincerely hope the Assistant Coroner reconsiders her decisions and allows Dr Julian remote access to this important hearing. 

Dr Julian is represented by Shirin Marker and Amy O’Shea of Bindmans LLP, and Jude Bunting of Doughty Street Chambers.

Please find our pre-action letter to the Assistant Coroner on the right hand side of this article.