Legal Advocacy is the Solution

Most adversarial jurisdictions offer some form of independent legal representation, including our closest neighbours (see our scoping review).

Independent legal advocacy can and does work in adversarial justice systems.

This is about not being left behind on international best practice for rape law.

These pages aim to address some common concerns about introducing independent legal representation in England and Wales.

Victim-survivors’ right to privacy

Read about victim-survivors’ legal right to privacy and protection of their private data.

VICTIM-SURVIVORS’ RIGHT TO be heard

Read about victim-survivors’ legal right to be heard without being given party status.

advocacy must be independent

Read about why the police, prosecutors and judges cannot effectively advocate for the rights of victim-survivors.

CONCERNS ABOUT WITNESS COACHING?

Read about how victim lawyers can work ‘justly’ without disclosing the defence case to victim-survivors.

concerns about ACCUSED’s Rights?

Read about how the introduction of lawyers for victims would not affect the rights of the accused.

concerns about resources?

Read about the cost-effectiveness of legal advocacy.