Defence barrister Malcolm Sinclair

Defence barrister Malcolm Sinclair at North London's Harrow Crown Court where he apologised to a jury for brandishing an unloaded starting pistol at them from a distance of three feet during a closing speech. * As he pointed the gun Mr Sinclair raised his voice and declared: "You too would be frightened", a reference to the defence of duress his client has advanced to explain his involvement in a heroin supply conspiracy and the fear that had driven him to carry the realistic looking starting pistol. Having realised the effect his advocacy may have had, Mr Sinclair, who was making his final address to the jury lowered the Italian made gun, an exhibit in the case, and said he was sorry he had frightened the jurors. (Photo by Sean Dempsey - PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images)