Better Get A Lawyer, Son - Justice (1)

Better Get A Lawyer, Son - Justice (1)

samsn's STRONGER

Child sexual abuse is a crime. What does criminal justice and punishment look like in the legal system? What is it like for survivors - or in this context, “victims” - to pursue criminal justice for the sexual crimes perpetrated against them? The findings of the Royal Commission’s public hearing into the Criminal Justice System revealed confronting and problematic issues for survivors in accessing justice. Sometimes a personal sense of crime and punishment just doesn’t line up with the complexities, biases and pitfalls of the criminal legal system, leaving both victims and the public with the sickening impression that perpetrators “get away with it”. The necessity for changes to both reporting and prosecution which better serve the victims has now been acknowledged; we’ll hear from survivors and advocates about the way forward, and what needs to change.  Featuring (in order of appearance): Jarad G, Mark C, Craig Hughes-Cashmore (SAMSN MD/CEO), Dr Judy Cashmore, Adam S, Professor Patrick O’Leary, Professor Rita Shackel, Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald AM. Mentioned in the episode: Caroline Taylor’s book ‘Surviving the Legal System’  Music: Licensed via Audiio.com  CRAIG / OPENER - The Brilliance: Violent Loving MARK - J Scott Rakozy: Memories Adrift CLOSING CREDITS - Seth Öphengon: A Safe Place (Instrumental)

InformativeThought-provokingCompassionateEngagingSupportive

42:0430 Nov 2021

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Seeking Justice: The Legal Maze for Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivors

Sadly, and unfortunately, there's been a lot of discussion, particularly recently, on this very point and whether we're expending a lot of energy trying to fix a system that is not just broken, which it clearly is, but inherently will fail because of the way that it is structured and because of some of the structural deficits of the system that do not allow the system to be sufficiently agile and sensitive to the needs of victims and survivors.

What happens when the quest for justice feels like an uphill battle? In this episode of 'samsn's STRONGER', listeners are taken into the daunting world of the legal system through the eyes of childhood sexual abuse survivors. The episode sheds light on the harsh realities and emotional struggles faced by those who dare to seek justice.

Featuring voices like Jarad G, Mark C, and experts such as Dr Judy Cashmore and Professor Patrick O’Leary, the discussion dives deep into the structural flaws and biases that often leave survivors feeling let down by the system. You'll hear personal stories that highlight not just the emotional toll but also the potential for retraumatization as survivors navigate this complex path.

Insights from healthcare professionals and criminal justice allies offer a stark look at why current legal frameworks fall short in addressing sexual offences against children. This episode doesn't just expose problems; it calls for much-needed changes in reporting and prosecution to better serve victims. Tune in for a powerful conversation that underscores the importance of advocacy, support from loved ones, and systemic reform.

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