Edward Yell acts for Erin Pizzey
Who? Edward Yell, 27, media litigation solicitor at London firm Carter-Ruck.
Why is he in the news? Acted for campaigner against domestic violence Erin Pizzey after Andrew Marr, in his book A History of Modern Britain, falsely alleged she had been a cadet member of the Angry Brigade terrorist group in the early 1970s.
Yell wrote to Marr’s publisher, Macmillan, to deny the allegation. Macmillan subsequently recalled all unsold copies of the book and will remove the falsehood from future editions. It also made a statement in the High Court accepting there was no substance to the allegation and apologised for the ‘distress and embarrassment’ caused to Pizzey. She is to receive an undisclosed sum in compensation. No proceedings were issued.
Thoughts on the case: ‘The case demonstrated the significance of what we do at Carter-Ruck, which is to protect our clients’ hard-won reputations. Erin Pizzey has campaigned tirelessly against violence for almost 40 years and any alleged association with terrorism would have undermined her life’s work. It was clear to us that the allegation was false and we are pleased that Macmillan reacted so swiftly to rectify matters. There was no malice intended on Macmillan’s part. It is a long book and things can easily slip through the net.’
Why become a lawyer? ‘I enjoy the cut and thrust of litigation and the day-to-day excitement of libel, which is colourful and varied.’
Career high point: ‘Probably my first jury case. The jury was out for an eternity and I was very nervous – but we won.’
Career low point: ‘I was a law student taking witness statements when an irate shopkeeper chased me off the Isle of Dogs.’
