Justice on Appeal was founded in 2009 by The Home Club’s creator, Darren Thomas Bolger, who revitalised the organisation as a limited company whilst continuing as chairman. It stands as the United Kingdom’s first pro bono charity dedicated exclusively to criminal appeals, with its mission rooted in overturning miscarriages of justice through collaboration with law students, seasoned legal professionals, and expert witnesses. Darren, originally a carpenter, joiner, and residential property refurbishment entrepreneur, joined forces with his mother—a skilled genealogist and researcher—to delve into criminal cases as amateur investigators. Their steadfast dedication uncovered evidence that had been manipulated and presented in dubious circumstances.
The establishment of Justice on Appeal represented a landmark achievement for those seeking to challenge wrongful convictions. The charity provided invaluable practical experience to legal trainees from renowned institutions such as City Law, BPP Law School, and Bedford University of Law, enabling them to review genuine cases. Its collaborative ethos brought together experienced legal practitioners and expert witnesses, fostering a dynamic learning environment for aspiring lawyers.
One notable chapter in the charity’s history involved Gloria Morrison, who engaged Justice on Appeal to examine issues surrounding the law of Joint Enterprise. Gloria entrusted Darren with 200 of JENGbA’s cases. It was her trust in Darren which can be witnessed here, that prompted the key evidence within a report, which was submitted to the House of Commons Justice Committee on Joint Enterprise. Justice on Appeal’s contributions were recognised in the committee’s report, which played a role in the overturning of the Joint Enterprise law. Darren was notably involved in the acquittal of Mr. Cullen, who had his murder conviction overturned after spending many years as a convicted prisoner.
Justice on Appeal has relaunched with renewed resolve and enhanced expertise. With the support of MAAT, an advanced AI legal assistant designed by Darren, the organisation is moving forward in investigating legal matters with extraordinary results. To further enhance its services, users can create an account to stay updated on ongoing initiatives, and for those needing help, the option to reset password ensures easy access to vital information. The charity is not only focusing on criminal appeals but is also broadening its remit to include contract law, bankruptcy, health, family, and media law.
Justice on Appeal Ltd, registered in England at 27 Old Gloucester Street, London WC1N 3AX.