Claire has been a pillar of support from our initial contact through to the completion of our claim. We would have no hesitation in recommending her and Blake Lapthorn to other families finding themselves in our position.

Mr & Mrs C, Isle of Wight

News

Family's fight for justice following tragic end to summer holiday

Tue 21st Feb 2012 Claims abroad

Robert Sebbage was on a holiday with friends in Zante, Greece when he was fatally stabbed by a local taxi driver. Other members of the group were also injured.

Now, the family has launched a campaign to fight for justice and to help raise funds so they can participate in the ongoing criminal proceeding. The investigating magistrate and prosecuting authorities in Greece are not obliged to provide information to the family as Robert was over the age of 18. The FCO has revealed, however, that the investigation is concluded and it is now for a Council of Judges in Greece to decide whether the Defendantcan be released pending his trial. The Council will also determine when and where the trial takes place. Whatever their conclusions, this will be a painful and drawn out process for the family.Chris Deacon, a solicitor in Blake Lapthorn's Claims Abroad team and who has advised in this case commented "the criminal justice system in Greece moves much slower than in England. Matters will not be helped by the ongoing economic uncertainties the country is facing and regular strike action in the public sector. At this stage, the best the families can do is set up an appropriate network of contacts, through the FCO or local lawyers, so that they are kept informed of all progress no matter how long it takes to see justice done."

Every year Blake Lapthorn's Claims Abroad team are instructed to deal with tragic cases such as that of Robert Sebbage. If a Defendant has assets it is possible in Greece to bring a civil claim for damages and such a claim can form an additional part of the criminal proceedings. It is not, however, a straight forward process and, due to funding issues, families affected by such tragedies abroad can be left without legal representation and an effective means of having their voice heard. Campaigns like that set up by Andy and Rhian Sebbage and Andy Granston are a good way of raising awareness and securing the conclusion that Robert and his friends deserve.

For more information or to support the "Out of the Blue" campaign email: outoftheblue-rjs@hotmail.co.uk or contact Chris Deacon, solicitor in Blake Lapthorn's Claims Abroad team on 02380 857399 or christopher.deacon@bllaw.co.uk.