Michael Mather-Lees KC comments on Lucy Letby’s appeal in The Independent

Michael Mather-Lees KC has provided comment in The Independent on Lucy Letby’s fresh bid to challenge her convictions on the grounds that the lead prosecution medical expert at her trial was “not reliable”.

“In a case of this gravity, or indeed any cases that may merit reconsideration, the Court of Appeal will only review the case if there is new evidence that was not available at trial, if there is valid and differing opinion with regards to that evidence, or a fundamental procedural error. Often, this will be expert evidence. This is particularly important when considering cases of cot death, baby shaking and other infant homicide.

“It is likely that there will be a considerable weight of forensic medical evidence on both sides that will be subject to interpretation and or opinions. These cases are normally prosecuted on the basis of a combination of factors. The first is that of forensic medical evidence and pathology, and the second being the factual evidence – however this list is not exhaustive.

“In general terms, permission to argue a renewed application to appeal will only be granted if there is such new evidence as enables the Court of Appeal to say the new evidence is such as may lead to a conviction, or convictions being quashed.”

Michael’s comments were published as part of The Independent’s live coverage, 16 December 2024.