Another Successful High Court Judgment in Claim BBK Took To Trial

Alexandra approached BBK for help in representing her in her claim for compensation against Derek Lampitt who seriously sexually abused her between the ages of 10 and 14 years old in both his and her home.

At the age of 14, Alexandra was unable to deal with what was happening to her anymore and she disclosed to a family member what Lampitt had been doing to her.  A report to the police then followed.  Alexandra understandably found the prospect of having to tell a stranger what had happened to her extremely daunting and still does to this day.  As a result however Lampitt was prosecuted and convicted of offences against her and another two victims and was sent to prison for eight years.  He was also made to sign the sex offenders register for life.

The police investigation and criminal trial however took place while Alexandra was studying for and taking her GCSE exams.  As a result she found it extremely difficult to concentrate at school and her attendance and performance declined substantially.  She left school at the age of 16 years old with few qualifications and poor grades in the exams that she was able to sit.

In light of the poor exam results Alexandra was unable to pursue her chosen career and she experienced difficulty securing any employment.

BBK therefore brought a claim against Lampitt directly for the abuse he inflicted upon Alexandra and the effect that it had on her life.  Specialist medical experts were instructed and Alexandra was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the abuse for which she was recommended a course of treatment.

Lampitt however refused to co-operate and did not respond throughout the lifetime of the claim.  To progress therefore judgment was entered against him as soon as it was possible to do so meaning that Alexandra won her claim and that it would fall to a Judge to assess the compensation she should be awarded. BBK obtained court orders for charges against Lampitt’s property in the meantime to ensure that he could not dispose of his assets to deprive Alexandra of her compensation.

As Lampitt did not respond to the claim however it meant that Alexandra had to give evidence at the final hearing in front of the Judge.  In preparation however, and on the basis that Lampitt could and was entitled to attend the hearing, BBK obtained special measures for Alexandra so that she could give her evidence from behind a screen.

The Judge noted the serious effects that the abuse had had upon Alexandra and awarded her in excess of £180,000 to be paid by Lampitt as well as her legal costs.  If Lampitt fails to pay this within the deadline ordered by the court BBK will take steps immediately to ensure that Alexandra receives her compensation by applying for an order to sell Lampitt’s property.

With the compensation she has been awarded, it is hoped that Alexandra will now be able to access the therapy she requires in order to help her move forward with her life. She will also now be able to return to her studies and obtain the examination results that she needs to progress in the career that she always wanted.