Tom Walkling KC & William Douglas-Jones defend in Coventry murder and attempted murder trials

Tom Walkling KC, leading William Douglas-Jones, defended James Ritchie who was charged with murder and attempted murder. Ritchie had wounded the necks of Darren Pearson and Anthony Wilson using a box-cutter knife, in their own home; Wilson died, while Pearson survived. Ritchie pleaded guilty to the murder of Anthony Wilson, and pleaded guilty to wounding Darren Pearson with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder of Pearson.

The trial for the charge of attempted murder, commenced in September 2025 at Warwick Crown Court. Following an 8-day trial, the jury were unable to reach a verdict. Following a retrial in June 2026, Ritchie was convicted of attempted murder.

He was sentenced on 11 June 2026 to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 28 years and 4 months.

Tom and William were instructed by Jane Higham from Jonas Roy Bloom.

Media coverage:

BBC News