Why it matters in the Letby case
If the CCRC refers the Letby convictions, the Court of Appeal will apply the unsafe-conviction standard, not retry the case.
May 2026: Thirlwall Inquiry report delayed to at least September 2026 · six-baby inquests relisted to 2027 · CCRC review active · Shoo Lee Panel: no medical evidence of deliberate harm.
Legal explainer
On a referral from the CCRC, the Court of Appeal asks whether the conviction is 'unsafe' — would the conviction have been returned by the jury if the new material had been available at trial? It is not the same as a finding of innocence.
If the CCRC refers the Letby convictions, the Court of Appeal will apply the unsafe-conviction standard, not retry the case.
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