Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) and Non-Accidental Head Injuries (NAHI) Appeals Lawyers
At Draycott Browne, we understand the emotional turmoil and distress that families go through when faced with accusations of inflicting non-accidental injuries or Shaken Baby Syndrome on a child; and if you have been wrongfully convicted of such a crime we fully understand that the need to appeal is crucial.
Our team of dedicated criminal appeals solicitors specialise in defending parents and caregivers in these sensitive cases. We believe in the importance of protecting your rights and ensuring that justice is reached, all while providing the support and guidance you need during these challenging times.
Throughout the legal process, we never lose sight of the fact that individuals facing these allegations are often in a state of profound shock and grief. We approach each case with empathy and sensitivity, understanding the emotional toll it takes on families. Our commitment is not just to defend your legal rights but also to support you through these difficult times.
Our team's experience can prove invaluable to individuals accused or convicted of inflicting serious or fatal injuries on a child. If you find yourself in such a distressing situation, please do not hesitate to contact us.
What is shaken baby syndrome?
Shaken Baby Syndrome, often referred to as a non-accidental head injury (NAHI), is a highly complex and contentious issue, often attracting significant media attention, because in most cases, it is alleged that a parent or family member has caused these injuries, typically to a very young child or infant.
Shaken Baby Syndrome is a type of traumatic brain injury inflicted upon a child. This injury most commonly occurs when an individual forcefully shakes an infant or young child, causing the child's brain to move inside their skull. Shaken Baby Syndrome diagnoses are typically made when a child sustains a severe head injury when there appears to be no apparent cause, such as in a car accident or other traumatic event.
The diagnosis of Shaken Baby Syndrome typically relies on the identification of a triad of medical symptoms, which include:
- Bleeding in the eye
- Bleeding under the dura in the brain
- Damage which affects how the brain functions
These brain injuries can cause other physiological symptoms, such as extreme fatigue, vomiting, seizures and even respiratory failure. This is due to the lack of oxygen to the brain and overall damage caused.
As the name suggests, this diagnosis often leads to suspicions of child abuse, specifically intentional shaking, which can result in the criminal prosecution of the caregiver or parent. It's crucial to note that Shaken Baby Syndrome diagnoses are more likely when there is no history of accidental trauma or known pre-existing medical conditions.
Controversy surrounding shaken baby syndrome diagnoses
It's important to acknowledge that there exists a significant debate within the medical and legal communities regarding the over-diagnosis of SBS. Some medical experts and legal practitioners argue that clinicians rely too heavily on the triad of symptoms as a diagnostic tool. In July 2005, the Court of Appeal heard several appeals of SBS convictions, some of which led to quashed convictions and substituted charges. These cases highlight the ongoing debate over whether these symptoms can have alternative causes.
Numerous studies have suggested that small falls, or even some slight internal bleeding that may occur during vaginal births may also be associated with the triad of symptoms. This ongoing scientific uncertainty has raised concerns about the potential for innocent individuals to be wrongfully convicted, or to have their children removed from their care.
How do I go about appealing my shaken baby syndrome sentence?
When convicted of causing non-accidental head injuries to your child, the courts will likely have considered a variety of factors. This will not only be the presence of shaken baby syndrome but may also be other signs of abuse such as bruises, cuts and the child’s behaviour.
Here at Draycott Browne, we can assess the evidence used by the prosecutor to try and challenge this. We can bring in other factors that may have caused shaken baby syndrome, and assess your circumstances to build a strong case.
If you know that you have been wrongfully convicted, it is vital to seek an expert solicitor who can work tirelessly on your behalf to overturn the decision. We know the law around this, and understand what is required of the courts to help overturn a decision.
How can Draycott Browne Solicitors help with your appeal?
Being wrongfully convicted of a crime you did not commit can be a devastating experience for both you and your family. Reversing such a conviction is a challenging endeavour, but at Draycott Browne, our dedicated appeals team has a national reputation for meticulously investigating cases and successfully appealing both convictions and sentences before the Court of Appeal.
We have a high success rate with criminal appeals, and our team leaves no stone unturned. We thoroughly explore any potential appeal points to ensure that all relevant issues are fully considered. We have extensive experience in handling cases involving Shaken Baby Syndrome, as well as other allegations of inflicted injuries on babies and young children.
The highest quality criminal defence work requires not only an understanding of the law, but also an appreciation for related fields, such as medicine. We recognise the significance of quickly identifying pertinent issues and putting together a highly experienced team of advocates and experts who possess extensive knowledge of this complex area of the law.
At Draycott Browne, we are ready to defend your rights and protect your family when faced with accusations of Shaken Baby Syndrome, or other non-accidental injuries, or for anyone wishing to appeal a wrongful conviction. Our team of experienced solicitors and specialists are dedicated to guiding you through the legal proceedings and exploring all available options to challenge the charges against you.
We understand the complexities and controversies surrounding Shaken Baby Syndrome, and we are prepared to challenge the diagnosis when appropriate. Our goal is to provide the best legal defence available while offering support and understanding. If you need advice or assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us as soon as possible. Your rights and your family's future are our top priorities.
Contact our SBS Appeal Solicitors
Our solicitors are experts at helping to appeal convictions associated with shaken baby syndrome. We are recognised as being one of the leading criminal defence lawyer firms in the North of England, which is testament to our expertise in the area.
We regularly help clients around England and Wales, from London through to the Midlands, as well as the North West. We are very reputable within the law industry, known for our tenacious approach and dedication to provide the most optimal outcome for our clients.
If you choose us to represent you, you can rest assured that you will be receiving high-quality legal advice, and we will regularly keep you updated on progress of your case. We will guide you through the process, and our criminal law firm will work around the clock to maximise your chances of success.
We are here for you 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. If you have been accused of causing a child harm, you cannot settle for anything less than Draycott Browne.