Lawyer in the news:​ Zachary Whyte, Sperrin Law

Who? Zachary Whyte, solicitor, Sperrin Law, London.

Why is he in the news? Represented two of three activists who blocked the road outside an immigration removal centre near Gatwick airport to stop people being put on a deportation flight to Jamaica. All three were cleared by a jury of public nuisance charges this month.

Thoughts on the case: ‘The defendants took direct action to stop immigration vans and coaches moving detainees from Brook House IRC to a Jamaica deportation charter flight. There are various strong reasons to object to these deportations. Deportees to Jamaica are at significant risk of harm and death there.

‘The facts of the Brook House three case capture a trend in the escalation in the seriousness of charges against protesters. The case began life as a summary-only offence: aggravated trespass. Public nuisance was later charged in addition, and a prison sentence became a risk where it had not been under the lesser charge.

‘Credit for the win must go to counsel Hannah Webb, Patrick Wise-Walsh, and Audrey Cherryl Mogan and fellow litigators Hussain Hassan and Ruby Breward. Maximum credit of course goes to the brave defendants who put themselves in harm’s way for others and bore the consequences. Their bravery is our inspiration.

‘Also, thank you jury for your sound judgment and compassion.’

Dealing with the media: ‘There was public attention on this case from the outset. The broad disgust at the Windrush scandal and how the state had treated its citizens formed vital political context to the direct action. At the time there was added upset that this flight would mark the continuation of removals to Jamaica. The defendants enjoyed wide support, demonstrated by the consistently packed public gallery throughout the 10-day trial and the outpouring of joy after the verdict. The defendants also needed to raise funds in order to help pay their legal aid contributions (which can be absurdly high and impossible to afford – a scandal in itself). They did this by robustly speaking out about the case and hosting a Dance Against Deportations party (which I hear was a lot of fun). Those hefty legal aid contributions will now be paid back and donated – double win.’

Why become a lawyer? ‘There is a mix of reasons why I have ended up doing what I’m doing. At its simplest and like many others I enjoy helping people out.’

Career high: ‘My most recent win was convincing the prosecution to drop serious drugs charges against a young exploited client. It has been two years of struggle for the young man, who has been stuck between a rock and a hard place throughout. I am truly delighted.’

Career low: ‘Topping off the delivery of a killer closing speech by referring to the lay magistrates as “you guys”.’