Summary
The family of Chloe Mitchell, who was killed in 2023 in Northern Ireland, is experiencing distress due to a strike by barristers, which has delayed court trials, including the one for her accused murderer. The strike involves a disagreement over legal fees and means that some Crown Court cases cannot proceed. The Justice Minister is trying to resolve the situation, but families affected by the delays are asking for a quick solution.
Key Facts
- Chloe Mitchell was killed in Ballymena in June 2023, and her remains were found nearly a week after she went missing.
- The man accused of her murder is supposed to go on trial in February, but the trial is delayed due to a barristers' strike over legal fees.
- The strike started on January 5 and affects Crown Court cases involving people who need legal aid in Northern Ireland.
- Chloe’s family is asking for the dispute to be settled soon to prevent more trauma from trial delays.
- Northern Ireland's Justice Minister, Naomi Long, plans to meet with Chloe's family and is working to resolve the strike.
- The strike impacts other murder trials, including that of Natalie McNally, who was also killed in 2022.
- The Criminal Bar Association says the strike is a last resort and is trying to engage with the Department of Justice to end it.
- Chloe’s family is feeling additional distress, with her mother struggling since Chloe's death and being unable to attend court dates.
