Rape victims should get free, independent legal advice, says Law Commission
Rape complainants should be advised by independent lawyers, and judges could vet cross-examination questions in an effort to counter “the effects of rape myths on trials”.
In landmark reforms proposed on Tuesday, the Law Commission said that more needed to be done to treat alleged victims “humanely” while protecting the rights of defendants.
Latest figures from the crime survey of England and Wales found that about 128,000 adults – more than 90 per cent of them women – reported having been a victim of rape or attempted rape.
The most radical suggestion from the commission, which advises the government on law reform in England and Wales, would be for alleged rape victims to receive independent legal advice and representation.
According to the commission’s consultation paper,
