Have there been any recent or notable legal developments or landmark cases regarding sexual offence crimes? Case law and legislation is continually developing. So are the types of sex crimes and the reasons for committing them. Rapes are increasing because more people are reporting them. The ‘#MeToo’ movement and social media sites have certainly increased the number of allegations of historic rapes. The media, internet sites and even the police now encourage victims to come forward and complain. Online offences are continually developing. Social media sites will pay money to content creators. More amateurs are posting content. The boundaries are constantly being pushed as to what is legal / illegal. Does the person look aged 17 (a child) or 18 (an adult)? A photograph of people on a train is lawful, but if it is possible to see up a woman’s skirt, is it unlawful? Possibly. Possibly not. Uncertainties in the law also create defence opportunities. 22 LAWYER MONTHLY MARCH 2024 The most rewarding part of my work is defending a client against a false allegation and winning!
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