In this case we represented a father. Parents were accused of shaking their baby after he was presented to hospital with subdural haemorrhages and bilateral retinal haemorrhages. Initially, the baby was placed in foster care but following a successful family assessment he was placed with the Maternal Grandparents. The case was considered by the High Court. A number of medical experts were instructed to assist the Court including a Paediatrician, Paediatric Neuro-Surgeon, Paediatric Neuro-Radiologist, Paediatric Ophthalmologist, Haematologist and a Forensic Pharmacologist. After considering the evidence at the Finding of Fact Hearing the Court found the injuries had been sustained by accident by the mother in a state of panic when she believed that her child was not breathing and therefore feared that he was dying. The Local Authority’s application for a Care Order was dismissed. No Findings were made. The child returned home to his parents. Awaiting Publication.
