Domestic abuse – why creating a specific offence is not the answer – Halsbury’s Law Exchange

Posted January 30th, 2014 in assault, bills, crime, domestic violence, news, sentencing by sally

‘The Offences Against the Person Act has been in law since 1861. It covers all forms of physical assault ranging from the most serious, such as stabbing someone, to common assault which can be committed merely by spitting at someone. Marital rape is an offence, as is pursuing a course of conduct which amounts to harassment. Despite these laws, MPs are now seeking to introduce a new offence of Domestic Abuse, aimed solely at offences carried out within relationships. The offence would be defined as, “intentionally, wilfully or recklessly causing, or attempting to cause, physical injury or psychological harm to a person”.’

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Halsbury’s Law Exchange, 29th January 2014

Source: www.halsburyslawexchange.co.uk