ADMIN NOTE:
Remember, this case is in the UK and therefore it is sub judice.
We can not state something regarding the guilt or innocence of the accused. IOW, we can not state an allegation as fact, i.e. we can't say "He did this or that". We
can say "It is alleged the accused did this ..."
Sub Judice 101:
Sub judice is in effect from the time of arrest and throughout the judicial process:
Please stick to discussing the trial content without posting anything that violates the following principles:
Basically anything that may prejudice the accused’s right to a fair trial
Any suggestion, opinion, or direct accusation that the accused is either guilty OR innocent
(i.e. the accused cannot be called "the killer". Instead use "the accused", "the alleged killer", or "the defendant")
A defendant’s previous history of any offences is off limits
Scandalizing the court (disparaging judges, lawyers, any officer of the Court) is off limits
Broadcasting anything about proceedings which happen in the jury's absence is off limits
Any non compliance with an Order of the court is off limits
In the event of an Appeal subsequent to verdict:
Appeals are usually heard by senior judges who are not likely to be influenced by the media, therefore responsible comment is usually considered acceptable
once a trial has concluded, regardless of if there is going to be an appeal.
Reference: UK Contempt of Court Act 1981
