Battered woman syndrome : expert evidence in action Robertson, J. Bruce, Hon.
Material type:
- 0078-6918
Otago Law Review, 9(2) 1998 : 277-300
This paper examines battered woman syndrome (BWS) as a defence when women kill or injure their violent spouse. The focus of the paper is on the aspect of self-defence. An overview of BWS is given, including its origins. Further discussion is provided on the application of BWS as expert evidence in criminal trials examining admissibility, and the implications for judges when it is used as expert scientific evidence. The author concludes that where domestic violence or its consequences are factors in criminal trials, all available assistance should be utilised for the delivery of the best possible justice. Record #3349
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