Web resource:	http://www.aic.gov.au/documents/5/E/A/%7B5EA20012-C1F3-4EFB-8FAD-E6C8F4E45DD6%7D2004-10-decisions.pdf
Type:	Report
Title:	Prosecutorial decisions in adult sexual assault cases : an Australian study
Authors:	Lievore, Denise
Keywords:	Legal issues;Sexual assault;Criminal justice responses
Year:	2004
Publisher:	Office of the Status of Women, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Barton
Notes:	"A report prepared for the Australian Government's Office of the Status of Women by the Australian Institute of Criminology 2004". See also Prosecutorial decisions in adult sexual assault cases:on our Research & Resources database. Presents the methodology and findings of a study that analysed the exercise of prosecutorial discretion, and the factors involved in prosecutorial decision making and charge negotiation in sexual assault cases across five Australian jurisdictions. The statistical data gathered from case files were supplemented by interviews with 24 Crown prosecutors in different States. A background to the concept and exercise of prosecutorial discretion is provided and a review of literature examining the use of prosecutorial discretion conducted. The results suggest that only a very small number of sexual assault cases proceed to trial and even fewer result in a guilty verdict, the majority being either withdrawn or finalised by way of a guilty plea. Variables identified as relevant to prosecutorial decision making included whether a victim was physically injured, the relationship between victim and defendant, and the strength of available evidence, as well as a range of organisational and extra-legal factors. The report concludes with a series of recommendations for future research, policy, legal and procedural reform.
URI:	https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/19065
ISBN:	1877042296X
Physical description:	iv, 76 p. : col. ill. ; 30 cm.
Appears in Collections:	Reports

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