David Greenwood has recently pushed the legal boundaries by successfully applying for early judgement in an historic child abuse claim.
David commented: In appropriate cases, where we have a conviction or compelling corroboration, I will be making these applications for early judgement. It could help to cut down the time some cases take and reduce the anguish for some clients
The Case: S v Parkin, Dewsbury County Court – 15.01.09 – was heard before District Judge Booth.
Summary: The claimant was in residential care as a child in Wakefield, West Yorkshire in the 1970s. A former care worker visiting his former place of work befriended him. This man was allowed by staff to take the claimant to his home in Derbyshire, eventually becoming the claimant’s foster parent. The Defendant was the headmaster of a local school and an intimidating individual. At first the claimant enjoyed his new middle class surroundings, but was soon being physically and sexually abused by the Defendant. The claimant was able to escape during a home visit when he refused to return. The claimant reported the matter to the police in 1993, and the abuser was convicted in 1994 of various sexual offences.
The claimant did not believe he was able to pursue a claim until he heard in the press in early 2008 that the House of Lords in the lottery rapist case had relaxed the limitation rules, and he approached Jordans solicitors in May 2008. His solicitor established that the abuser owned his own home and pursued proceedings, serving them on 3rd December. An application for summary judgement was made and heard on 15th January 2009. Allowing the application, District Judge Booth stated that this is a suitable case for summary judgement and the Defendant has no prospect of sustaining a Defence to the claim
Contact David Greenwood on 01924 387110 or send an email for further comment
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