ITV Dramatizes Ann Ming’s Campaign Overturning UK Double Jeopardy Law

The ITV drama I Fought the Law depicts Ann Ming's 15-year campaign to overturn the centuries-old double jeopardy law after the murder of her daughter, Julie Hogg. Julie was strangled by William Dunlop in 1989, but despite two trials, Dunlop was acquitted due to the law preventing retrials for the same offense. Ann's relentless efforts led to the law's reform in 2005, allowing retrials when new evidence emerges, culminating in Dunlop's conviction—the first under the revised law. The series stars Sheridan Smith as Ann Ming and is based on Ann's book For the Love of Julie, illustrating the challenges she faced against police failings and legal obstacles. The double jeopardy law, which had been in place for over 800 years, was reevaluated following notable cases, including Stephen Lawrence's murder, and formally altered through the Criminal Justice Act 2003. I Fought the Law highlights Ann's courage and determination to achieve justice for her daughter and reform the legal system.