Why it matters in the Letby case
If the CCRC refers and the Court of Appeal quashes, a retrial is possible but not automatic. The Court considers the public interest, the availability of witnesses and the time elapsed.
May 2026: Thirlwall Inquiry report delayed to at least September 2026 · six-baby inquests relisted to 2027 · CCRC review active · Shoo Lee Panel: no medical evidence of deliberate harm.
Legal explainer
An appeal is a review of the safety of a conviction by the Court of Appeal. A retrial is a fresh trial before a new jury, ordered when a conviction is quashed and the public interest justifies a re-hearing.
If the CCRC refers and the Court of Appeal quashes, a retrial is possible but not automatic. The Court considers the public interest, the availability of witnesses and the time elapsed.
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