Lawyer of the week: Muddassar Arani

Masha'Allah, it is good to have people like this around during these times of fitan


The Times
April 25, 2006

Lawyer of the week: Muddassar Arani
Interview by Linda Tsang

MUDDASSAR ARANI, of Arani & Co, acted for the British Muslim man in a court challenge to the control order issued against him, which allows the Government to restrict the liberty and movement of people it claims endanger public security. In the High Court, Mr Justice Sullivan ruled that the Government’s system of control orders against terrorism suspects was “an affront to justice”. The Home Office has rejected the court’s ruling and indicated that it will appeal against the decision.

What were the main challenges in this case and what are the possible implications?

The case was difficult because this was the first challenge to the Prevention of Terrorism Act and because the legislation is wrong on so many levels. We asked the court to take a very big step, that is to make a declaration of incompatibility with the (Human Rights Act), and we were vindicated by the ruling. If the Home Secretary does not win on appeal, the Government would have no choice but to repeal or substantially amend control order legislation.

What was your worst day as a lawyer?

Every case I lose feels like my worst day as a lawyer, but if I had to pick one, it would be the day we lost the Babar Ahmed extradition hearing. Our arguments were extremely strong; the District Judge accepted that this was a troubling case but he nevertheless ruled against us.

What was your most memorable experience as a lawyer?

Winning this case is right up there. Also in August 2002 we secured the acquittal of Suleyman Zain-ul-Abidin in the first prosecution for Islamic terrorism brought under the Terrorism Act 2000, which is particularly memorable and satisfying.

Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?

My mother, to whom I owe everything.

Why did you become a lawyer?

I became a lawyer to fight for the most disadvantaged in society. Since then I have unintentionally become a combatant (not unlawful) in the fight against Islamophobia and the erosion of our civil liberties.

What would your advice be to anyone wanting a career in law?

If you have passion, good judgment and the ability to think and express yourself clearly under pressure, go for it! If not, consider an alternative career.

If you had not become a lawyer, what would you have chosen and why?

I like to think that I would have got involved in some form of charity work.

Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time?

The so-called War on Terror will be over and fairness will have been restored to all aspects of our legal system so I can retire happy. I am not that naive; so, failing that, I expect to be doing more of the same — but with a bit more time off.

l_tsang@hotmail.com