Class action firm Pogust Goodhead will continue as lead solicitors in the Pan NOx 'dieselgate' trial, which opened yesterday in the Royal Courts of Justice, after an application to step down was refused.
The firm applied to retire as co-lead solicitor last week, saying the ‘pragmatic’ decision would avoid any potential dispute over funder Gramercy’s role. Lady Justice Cockerill gave her decision on Friday refusing the application.
A spokesperson for Pogust Goodhead said: ‘We welcome Lady Justice Cockerill’s decision that the status quo is the best course at this time, which means that Pogust Goodhead will continue as lead solicitor, along with Leigh Day. We are fully committed to successfully litigating this historic case and remain focused on the pursuit of justice for the millions of people affected by the UK diesel emissions scandal.’
The firm said the application was a ‘pragmatic step made to ensure the recent speculation and misinformation about Pogust Goodhead was not a distraction from the trial itself’.
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Pogust Goodhead made headlines over the summer after its co-founder, barrister Tom Goodhead, was replaced as chief executive and his appointment as director terminated. Three new board directors were also appointed, including new chief executive Alicia Alinia.
The Pan NOx trial before Lady Justice Cockerill, sitting as a judge of the High Court, continues. The three-month hearing into 13 group litigation orders will determine whether vehicles from five car makers contained prohibited 'defeat devices' to cheat on emissions controls and, if so, whether that gives rise to claims for breach of contract and breach of statutory duty.
