Appeal
On 24 October 2007, Grell's supporters launched a campaign to finance her appeal but it was then reported that the Labour Party would pay her legal costs. On 27 November, The Independent newspaper quoted a party spokesman: "Following legal advice in the last few days, the Labour Party today withdrew its support for Miranda Grell's appeal." Criticism was levelled at the party for supporting Grell's appeal, in particular by gay rights campaigner and former Labour candidate Peter Tatchell.
Grell's appeal hearing began on 28 November 2007 at Snaresbrook Crown Court before Judge Peter Birts QC and two lay magistrates. On 30 November, Grell's conviction for making false statements about another candidate to gain electoral advantage was upheld. She vacated her seat and was banned from holding public office for three years. The by-election for Leyton ward on 14 February 2008 was won by Liberal Democrat Winnie Smith.
Following the appeal verdict, Grell resigned from the Labour Party, her job working for the Deputy Mayor of London and from the Compass management committee, but still pleaded her innocence.
Grell is single and lives in London. She is now the interim development officer of the Hackney Law Centre.
Read more about this topic: Miranda Grell
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