UK barrister faces first contempt prosecution over closing speech

Barrister Rajiv Menon KC faces criminal contempt trial the week of July 27 over his closing speech at Woolwich Crown Court — believed to be the first UK prosecution of a barrister for closing-speech content. Contempt means disobeying or defying a court. Menon represented Palestine Action activists who targeted an Elbit Systems UK arms factory. Court orders allege he deliberately breached judicial rulings.