friend with dyslexia fined for not attending jury service

[RogerHarris]

Just writing this for a friend who cannot read or write

 

In glasgow he missed jury service as he lives on his own and could not read the summons. He thought it was junk mail. He pays all his bills and works 7 days a week but is illiterate.

 

The police took him away today and want 1500 fine or he will be jailed and subject to 5000 fine if he does not pay.

 

Is this right, can this all occur to somebody in this position ?

[dx100uk]

is this known/registered with the local health service?

he should be exempt.

 

dx

[RogerHarris]

I just asked, he is registered with a GP but does not know if the GP is aware he cannot read.

 

A local lawyer says he he no redress in this matter.

 

What is his position if he visits the GP tommorow and gets a letter will this help his position

[kiptower]

someone who know his condition etc and with a copy of the GP report go with him to the Court where the fine was imposed , and apply to appeal it,

 

he then should get a hearing to allow him to explain why he did not respond, there is a good chance it wil be overturned.

 

There have been similar cases where the person could not read or write in english and the Court understood that etc

[dx100uk]

thanks kip

i think i remember something about seeing the court manager too?

but yes, he has nowt to worry about, it will be resolved in his favour i'm sure.

 

i know someone in the know so i'll ask tomorrow on the radio.

 

dx

[kiptower]

you aint going to ask me on there ( radio ) lol

[dx100uk]

ok

been in contact with my local court manager via the radio the man says:

 

this should of been picked up by the custody sargeant at the time [if it got that far when he was charged?]

 

anyhow.

 

you need evidence [letter from GP will be fine]

 

goto one of the free solicitors [or a £5 jobby most do this]

 

or on the court hearing [i assume he must have one set?]

 

just turn up plead not guilty and present the letter

 

the judge will dismiss it till a later date and insist reports are carried out as to why it got that far and why his time has been wasted.

 

there is also a very good chance of compensation ask in court.

 

or

 

write to the court inc the letter and ask why it has gone this far?

 

 

i cannot relay the comments made over the radio, however, a few choice names were said in regard to the actions of the police in this matter, esp the custody sargeant if one was involved. the SPECIFIC question should have been asked at the desk.

 

HTH

 

dx

[RogerHarris]

Thanks for this, i told him the advice and he is going to see a doctor to appeal.

 

What would do without the CAF ? Its like the modern version of a trade union for the masses..