Conviction rates for sexual offences remain low, despite legal reforms in recent years. One reason is the criminal standard of ‘reasonable doubt’ when supporting evidence may be difficult to produce.
Studies show the physical and emotional pain of minorities and women is often discounted by both the U.S. justice and health care systems. That has serious consequences.
As the Harvey Weinstein trials start, a psychology scholar explains why jurors may be biased on the question of consent. While the situations examined in these studies are not equivalent to sexual assault, they illustrate a pervasive psychological bias.
Uber’s first safety report revealed 107 deaths and nearly 6,000 sexual assaults over two years. But the rideshare service may still be safer than the alternatives.
As NSW reviews its consent laws, it should look to lessons from other states. While affirmative consent is regarded as the best model, its wording in Victoria offers limited protection in court.
If the representations we see of black women in Australia only focus on disadvantage and deficit – not success and excellence – how do we expect power imbalances and stereotypes to change?
There is currently no law that specifically outlaws stealthing in Australia. A case making its way through the courts in Victoria could provide legal clarity on the issue.
Jane E. Palmer, American University School of Public Affairs
Part of a law that goes into effect in New York state on Aug. 14 allows victims more time sue in civil court. Epstein’s victims can still go after his estate.
W.T. Stead’s 1885 account of the process by which wealthy Londoners procured teenagers for sex became a global news story, but the police refused to investigate.