08 October

Ella Hughes secures acquittal following trial for serious sexual offence

Ella Hughes secures acquittal following trial for serious sexual offence

Ella Hughes, instructing Jess Ward of 2 Bedford Row Chambers, successfully defended R who was accused of rape. Following a 7 day trial before the Southwark Crown Court, R was unanimously acquitted.

The offence dated back to 2021 and R was accused of rape against a work colleague. It was alleged that following a planned night out together, R forced his way into the bedroom of the complainant and had non-consensual penetrative sex with her. R instructed that he and the complainant had consensual sex together.

The prosecution case was that the complainant had a long term boyfriend and therefore would not have consensually had sex with R. The defence relied on CCTV footage from the nightclub the night of the alleged incident and had been seeking full disclosure of the phone download, including the full transcript of WhatsApp messages between R and the complainant before that night.

In a successful cross-examination of the officer in the case, defence counsel Ms Ward managed to get the officer to admit he could not be sure whether he had properly uploaded and served the download of R’s phone. The trial was adjourned overnight for the officer to double check the download of R’s phone to be sure there were no further messages and that the defence had been disclosed all material. It transpired the officer had omitted to upload over 180 pages of WhatsApp messages between R and the complainant in the days leading up to the alleged offence. The messages showed a discussion between the two about their plans for that night. The defence submitted these messages helped to show, at the very least, a reasonable belief in consent.

Following a 7 day trial, the jury retired to consider their verdict for 1 ½ days before returned a unanimous not guilty verdict.

If you need specialist legal assistance regarding an ongoing matter, contact Rustem Guardian today on 020 3929 9119.

Jane Holder

3 weeks ago

I cannot thank Rustem and Guardian Solicitors enough for the support, professionalism and dedication they showed throughout my partner’s case.

Katerina Tsibouklis is exceptional and went above and beyond to support us during what was an extremely stressful and difficult time. She is extremely professional dedicated and showed genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome in every aspect of the case.

The teams hard work, attention to detail and determination made a huge difference.

I would highly recommend Rustem and Guardian Solicitors to anyone looking for a legal team that truly cares about their clients and will go the extra mile for them. Thank you for everything you have done.

lotus li

3 months ago

I was told that choosing Rustem Guardian Solicitors means finding the best team in the UK to help you, and my experience with them proved this to be 100% true. Their professionalism guided me through every complex step of my case, and their patience carried me through the most anxious days. Thanks to their dedication, I finally cleared my name. I cannot recommend them highly enough to anyone in need of reliable legal support abroad.

Godspower O

4 months ago

I would like to sincerely thank Katerina Tsibouklis and Geo Song of Rustem Guardian Solicitors & Advocates for their outstanding support.

I was recommended to the firm by a close friend when I asked for the very best legal representation in the UK—and they truly exceeded all expectations. From the moment I reached out, Geo was professional, attentive, and reassuring. She took the time to listen, understand my situation, and made me feel genuinely supported from the start.

Geo introduced me to Katerina, who took over my case and was exceptional. She acted immediately with urgency and expertise, showed real compassion, stayed highly responsive, and provided clear, strategic advice throughout.

I was falsely accused, and Katerina quickly applied for bail variation and handled everything with precision. The case was dropped with No Further Action (NFA), and I didn’t even have to attend further interview.

I felt completely supported and confident throughout. I highly recommend them to anyone needing top-tier legal representation. Katerina and Geo professionalism, dedication, and ability to deliver the best possible outcome are truly exceptional.

Mos Zoe

I cannot recommend Mr. Ding (Xiaoyong Ding 丁晓勇) from Rustem Guardian Solicitors highly enough. During one of the most stressful and challenging periods of my life, he was nothing short of exceptional — not just as a solicitor, but as someone who genuinely cared about me as a person.
There were moments when I was ready to give up entirely. Every time that happened, Mr. Ding would say to me: “Don’t give up. The outcome isn’t certain yet — we are all fighting for you.” Those words kept me going more times than I can count. He never once lost faith, even when I had lost direction of myself.
What I will never forget is how human he made the whole experience feel. He would sometimes vent alongside me about how difficult the CPS reviewing solicitor was being — and honestly, those moments made me smile. It sounds small, but it meant everything. It told me he wasn’t just going through the motions. He was genuinely invested, genuinely frustrated on my behalf, and genuinely fighting for me. He was sharp, wise, and quietly funny — like a father figure who takes your problems as seriously as his own.
His legal work was impeccable. Every document meticulously prepared, every argument airtight, every detail accounted for. He pushed CPS persistently and strategically, and in the end, the case was dismissed. But what moved me just as much was what happened after. Even when it was all over, Mr. Ding took the time to sit with me, talk with me, and make sure I was truly okay. That is not something you forget.
The firm itself, Rustem Guardian, is everything its name promises. “Rustem” draws from the legendary Persian hero Rostam — the ultimate symbol of loyalty, courage, and unwavering protection — and “Guardian” is exactly what they are. They have access to a network of top-tier barristers and leading experts, ensuring every case is backed by the very best. Mr. Timur Rustem told me from day one that Rustem Guardian will guardian your future — and they delivered on that promise completely.
Mr. Ding reminded me that the legal profession, at its best, is truly meaningful — it protects people when they need it most, and it takes real wisdom, dedication, and heart to do it well. He has all three in abundance. Having spent six to seven years as a Senior Caseworker, Mr. Ding brings an exceptional depth of hands-on experience across complex criminal cases. He is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and uncompromising professionalism — someone who is deeply invested in every single case and never simply goes through the motions. Fluent in both Mandarin and Cantonese, and holding a Chinese legal qualification, he handles cross-border matters with ease. If the law can make this world a better place, then there is nothing more worthwhile — and Mr. Ding has shown me that it truly can. He also showed me a different possibility in life.
If you are looking for someone who will fight for your best interest, believe in you, and make sure you never feel like you are fighting alone — Mr. Ding and the team at Rustem Guardian are, without any doubt, the best decision you will ever make.
And on a final note — I have to say, Mr. Ding is not only an exceptional solicitor, but also the epitome of a refined, charming and thoroughly gentlemanly Chinese man — handsome, witty, and wonderfully warm. Brilliant at his job, easy on the eyes, and genuinely great company. Truly one of a kind, and highly recommended to the entire world!

Kim Tomlinson

5 months ago

I recently had the pleasure of working with this solicitor firm, Katerina she’s amazing and I can confidently say the experience exceeded all expectations. From the very first consultation through to the final outcome, their professionalism, expertise, and genuine commitment to my case were evident at every stage.

What truly stood out was their clear communication. Legal matters can often feel overwhelming, but they took the time to explain everything in a way that was easy to understand, keeping me informed and reassured throughout the entire process. No question ever felt too small, and their responsiveness was exceptional.

Their attention to detail and thorough approach gave me complete confidence that my case was in the best possible hands. They demonstrated not only deep legal knowledge but also a strategic mindset that ultimately led to a successful outcome.

Beyond their technical expertise, what made the biggest difference was their personable and supportive attitude. They treated me with respect, patience, and understanding, which made a potentially stressful situation much more manageable.

I would highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of legal services. Their dedication, professionalism, and client-focused approach truly set them apart. I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again in the future.

Tarik Mustafa

6 months ago

Highly recommend Rustem Guardian Solicitors. I received excellent, prompt service from them. They are very professional, knowledgeable, and provided highly skilled legal support. Massive thanks to Ella Hughes for representing me, taking the time to explain everything thoroughly, and providing valuable advice. Huge appreciation to Timur Rustem for contacting me and putting my mind at ease. Their guidance, care, and consideration were outstanding and made me feel truly reassured.

Sunjay Monga

7 months ago

I can’t thank Timur and Emilia enough for the incredible support they gave me during an extremely tough and stressful time. From the very beginning, I felt protected, listened to, and in safe hands.

They prepared a clear, well-thought-out statement supported by detailed and highly relevant evidence, which ultimately led to the case being closed with no further action at police level. Despite the other party attempting to submit additional evidence against me, the strength and quality of Tim and Emilia’s representation meant there was no need for further evidence or even another interview. The matter was dealt with decisively and professionally.

Their knowledge, preparation, and calm confidence made all the difference. I genuinely believe the outcome speaks for itself. Even now, knowing I have them to turn to gives me real peace of mind.

Thank you both so much — I’m incredibly grateful for everything you did and your support!

Je Bi

Theo’s case service was second to none. I really appreciated the support he gave me throughout the whole process and felt reassured knowing he was always there when needed.

He explained clearly what was going to happen and took the time to go through what was being said and why. This made everything much easier to understand and helped me feel more confident about each step.

Overall, Theo was professional, approachable, and extremely supportive. His clear communication and guidance made a real difference, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him.

wisarut hirunbuth

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Timur Rustem and his team for their excellent service. Timur is highly professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely considerate throughout the entire process. I would also like to thank Noor Elbaradie, who was incredibly supportive and attentive. He consistently made sure that everything went smoothly from the beginning until the end. Thanks to their dedication and professionalism, I felt well supported and confident at every stage. I highly recommend this law firm.

Simon Smith

I have two different cases .I went to a lot of solicitor offices to seeking to help.other lawyers have a bad attitude and no good experience in handling case.but Rustem Guardian solicitor was really helpful me to won the lawsuit.Also one layer who name is Ding Xiao Yang of this company .He was good a solicitor .he helped me preparing case is patience and responsible .When I have some questions about my case he has answered me immediately and responsible give me helpful suggestions to me .Mr Ding is a really good lawyer.he spoken my country language.that make me really easy to talk regarding my case .also this make easy to dealing with my case.he reply my email really good. Every time if I call Mr Ding .he always responds with me . really good lawyer who work with is really important.I am a foreigner.I made some bad friends angry got involved in bad sometimes involved to a police. I need appeal to my case .most solicitor offices told me Gavin up to appeal my case . This will spend a lot of money.but Rustem Guardian solicitor support me a lot of confidence .I had reviewed online feedback .I had my experience with this company.I give 5 start.this company has special translator spoken different languages.that help a lot to different guests.this is my experience with this company

selina D

Aisha

I honestly cannot thank this firm enough for the support I received. Noor Elbaradie was amazing from start to finish, always clear, patient and supportive and made sure I understood everything at every step. Fred was also brilliant, calm and professional and together they made a stressful situation so much easier to deal with. I always felt listened to, supported and in safe hands. I would absolutely recommend this company to anyone needing legal support. Thank you again

Flori Flori

8 months ago

I would highly recommend Rustem Guardian Solicitors to anyone, and I would particularly like to thank Noor Elbaradie and Abigail Bache. Noor was very attentive and professional, helping throughout the process. It was clear the level of expertise that Noor and the team have, with a very impressive attention to detail, making me feel at ease. I could not recommend them highly enough.

Jamel M

Thank you so much to Geo ,Theo and Rustem Guardian Soliciters. Genuenly the most down to earth and profesional people i have been bleesed to have handled my case. Comunication was exellent through out my hardship and got me N.F.A after what seemed like forever. Honestly would recomend to anybody going through ANY legal issues. Thanks again 🙏🏽

Nick

11 months ago

I would like to sincerely thank Tim and the entire team at Rustem Guardian Solicitors for their outstanding service. Ella did an amazing job, and when Katerina took over the case, she immediately made me feel at ease with her professionalism and deep knowledge in presenting our defence.

You can tell the level of expertise and care the moment you walk through the doors of their office — it instantly puts you at ease.

It really could have gone either way, especially as I was too ill to attend the case in person, but I was found Not Guilty following a successful submission of no case to answer.

Thank you once again to the whole team for your dedication, support, and professionalism.

Charlie Rechten

A very professional firm who really care and go above and beyond for you. Geo Song was especially helpful throughout the whole process, providing me with all the information I needed, assisted me with any queries I had, and was always very responsive.
Timur represented me and got me the best possible outcome; he went into detail and made sure he understood everything around my case, and overall, provided the best legal representation I could have asked for. Could not recommend Rustem Guardian Solicitors highly enough!

Ezrah Quailey

4 years ago

My experience with Rustem Guardian solicitors has been very professional coupled with clear advice that made the whole process much easier to understand. I would like to give a big thank you to Natasha Green and Tim Rustem who both always found adequate time for communication/replies. All office staff were very polite and efficient hence why I would highly recommend the firm to anyone in search good solid legal advice.

Trevon Whyte

Katherine from the firm was very supportive & straight forward about every situation. Supported me with my case and kept good morale through out a very difficult case. I really appreciate the help I got. She kept it very brief and made it easy to understand with this very difficult case, and altogether it worked out for the better with my freedom being granted. Thank you so much Kathrine!

Prashanth Dhananjayan

Rustem Guardian is outstanding in all respects. The lawyers attending my case were highly competent, courteous and empathetic; it felt as though they took a personal interest in my case. Because of their excellent correspondence, any questions I had were cleared immediately and I felt taken care of and reassured every step of the way.

Most importantly, I was going through financial hardship at the time I needed representation and the firm quoted their fees and broke it up into installments such that it was affordable for me. They really went above and beyond for me. Tim, Des, Natasha and Simeon, I couldn't thank you all enough for getting me through the toughest times.

Aaron B

My experience with Rustem Guardian Solicitors has been amazing from day one. Ella Hughes has been extremely helpful with chasing up leads and reassuring me I was in safe hands from the beginning. Senior Solicitor Mr Des Jenson who represented me in court was absolutely phenomenal. His ability to retain information and deliver when necessary was brilliant. These two really went the extra mile for me and I can't thank them enough. I would highly recommend Rustem Guardian to anyone seeking 5 star representation.

R H

This past year has been quite the challenge for me, but Rustem Guardian's have been professionals from our first meeting and I'm quite satisfied with the astounding work put into my case. I would like to give a special thank you to Natasha for all the hard work, but also for being compassionate and answering all my questions and worries. I would also like to thank you Tim for the incredible work, thought and care that went into my case.

I'm quite satisfied with the development in my case, and I would have no hesitation in recommending Rustem Guardian.

Ella Hughes secures acquittal following trial for serious sexual offence

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