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Recent Articles
‘Sex for Rent’ Arrangements: Why They Exist and How to Tackle Them
There has been a rise in so-called 'sex for rent' arrangements, whereby landlords offer discounted or free accommodation in return for sexual favours. Some worry that the law cannot tackle this problem. These are misplaced; the required provisions do already exist, but lack effective enforcement.
12:00, 22nd May 2018Taming the Dragon: Keeping Welsh Law Accessible in the Devolution Age
Changes to the devolution arrangement have highlighted an increasing problem for Welsh lawyers: the inaccessibility of Welsh law. As Supreme Court justice Lord Lloyd-Jones explained in a recent speech, there are several ways to resolve this issue. His proposal is preferable, but still has flaws.
Consenting to Serious Violence in R v BM: An Update to R v Brown?
The infamous case of R v Brown [1994] set down the rule that a person cannot generally consent to serious harm. Though controversial, this appears settled law. However, it was law that was tested in a recent case before the Court of Appeal involving a body modification artist... and a snake tongue.
The Belfast Trial: What Relying on Rape Myths Means for Justice
A defence barrister in the Belfast Trial sought to harness a rape myth in order to discredit the complainant. It is regrettable that rape myths are commonly used in this way, and even more regrettable that they are often effective in securing acquittals. The law should intervene to prevent this.
#MeToo, #IBelieveHer and the Belfast Trial: Drawing Distinctions
There are important limitations to a finding of legal guilt in rape and sexual assault cases. This was made clear by the controversial decision in the Belfast Trial. Movements like #MeToo and #IBelieveHer must be careful to distinguish legal guilt from morally and socially unacceptable conduct.
Offensive Jokes Becoming Criminal? Count Dankula's Conviction
The recent conviction of Mark Meechan, otherwise known as Count Dankula, for uploading a controversial video on YouTube sets a worrying precedent for freedom of expression. Of most concern is the fact that context is given only a secondary role when considering whether a joke is grossly offensive.
Book Review: 'Stories of the Law and How It's Broken' by the Secret Barrister
'Stories of the Law and How It's Broken', written by anonymous barrister 'The Secret Barrister', takes a sobering look at the realities of the crumbling English and Welsh criminal legal system. A definite must-read, it is hoped the book's success will help save a system on the brink of collapse.
Affray Outside Off-Stump: Explaining Ben Stokes’ Charges
England cricketer Ben Stokes was charged earlier this week with the offence of affray following an incident that occurred outside a Bristol nightclub in September 2017. This article explains what exactly he is being charged with, what the prosecution must prove and what defences might be used.
Upskirting: Failure of the Law to Protect Women
There are many ways the law is failing women. A shocking example is the lack of a specific offence for upskirting. However, the #stopskirtingtheissue campaign has led to a private member's bill being considered by Parliament, giving hope that this will soon change.
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