During the Court of Appeal proceedings related to Sara Sharif’s care before her tragic murder, judges expressed “serious concerns” about the potential risks of being publicly named. In a ruling by Mr. Justice Williams, it was decided that the media should not reveal the identities of the three judges involved in the historical family court cases concerning the 10-year-old girl, along with social workers and guardians. This decision was made due to a “real risk” of harm from what was described as a “virtual lynch mob.”
Despite this ruling, various media organizations, including the BBC, are contesting the decision, arguing that the judges should be named for the sake of transparency. Sara’s father, Urfan Sharif, and stepmother, Beinash Batool, were sentenced to life in prison for her murder in Woking in 2023. Following their convictions at the Old Bailey, details from past family court proceedings regarding Sara’s care before her death started to surface.
The court documents revealed that Surrey County Council had raised “significant concerns” about the likelihood of physical and emotional abuse that Sara might face at the hands of her biological parents. In their written submissions to the Court of Appeal, the unnamed judges expressed fears about the potential risks to themselves and their families if they were to be identified.
While Sharif opposes the appeal to name the judges, the guardian of the other children involved in the case has taken a neutral stance. The court records show that the council had been in contact with Sharif and Sara’s mother, Olga Sharif, since 2010, even before Sara was born. Care proceedings were initiated by the authority concerning Sara’s siblings in 2013, with concerns about abuse and neglect.
The appeals hearing in London, overseen by three senior judges, will determine whether the identities of the judges should be disclosed. Whatever the outcome, the safety and privacy of those involved remain a top priority.
& Tribunals Service
The & Tribunals Service is a vital component of the justice system, playing a crucial role in resolving disputes and upholding the rule of law. Established to provide individuals and organizations with a fair and impartial forum to address legal issues, the service operates with transparency and integrity.
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