All of us at Ison Harrison and Harrison Bundey would like to wish Ruth Bundey a very happy birthday as she turns 70.

As dedicated and passionate about her work now as when she qualified in 1980, Ruth has never believed in a ‘one size fits all’ approach to cases.

Ruth’s background is in criminal defence work and she was involved in numerous high profile trials such as the Bradford Twelve. She became involved in inquests involving deaths in Prison or Police custody in the nineties when this was a largely ignored area, and still acts for the sister of Christopher Alder who died on the floor of Hull Police Station, resulting in an unlawful killing verdict.

Her representation of the father of Helen Smith who died in Saudi Arabia established for the first time the right of families to have an Inquest here after the death of a UK citizen abroad. Years of work in immigration involved in particular those suffering from HIV/Aids where no medical treatment was available in their countries of origin.

Although Ruth’s work has garnered national accolades (including recognition at the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards in 2016 and the 2017 Modern Claims Awards), she remains steadfastly modest and focused upon providing access to justice for all.

Ruth was featured in the Law Society’s official Gazette last year. The piece attracted a comment from a Gazette reader, who feels that ‘Ruth is one of those real characters who brings a refreshingly different perspective to the legal profession.’

We are proud to echo this comment, and congratulate Ruth both on her birthday and the milestones she has achieved during her career. Genan Hashim and Mark Foley are both Partners in our Criminal Law department and have worked alongside Ruth for a number of years, and their quote sums her up perfectly:

‘Ruth is indefatigable – a true legend.  Her contribution to the provision of legal advice and representation to some of the most needy clients both in Leeds and nationally is without comparison.  She has recently represented families in the Hillsborough Inquests and is still involved in advising and assisting in relation to the ongoing Police investigation arising from the verdicts returned.  She remains one of the country’s leading inquest lawyers and long may she continue! She is a pleasure to work with.’

Congratulations Ruth!

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