Young Girl Denies Attempted Murder of Mother in Court Hearing

A 13-year-old girl appeared in court today, visibly distressed as she pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder of her mother, aged 47, during an incident in Wimbledon, southwest London, on March 2. The hearing was delayed to allow the young defendant to calm down after her arrival, as she opted to sit in the back row rather than in the dock, accompanied by an "appropriate adult" and her junior barrister. To create a more comfortable environment, barristers and Judge Judy Khan refrained from wearing traditional wigs and gowns. Defence barrister Rhys Rosser noted that the girl was "extremely nervous" while entering her pleas. The emotional toll was evident as she began to cry and requested a break before the charges were formally presented. In addition to the attempted murder charge, she also denied an alternative charge of wounding with intent during a previous hearing at the Old Bailey on Wednesday. As one of the youngest female defendants in such a serious case, the girl entered her pleas from the well of the courtroom, supported by appropriate adults. Judge Khan allowed her time to compose herself before proceeding. The defendant, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, is currently remanded in local authority accommodation and is set to face a one-week trial at the same court beginning September 9.