Carnal Knowledge: Rape on Trial

by Sue Lees

In this title, Sue Lees explodes the myths about rape that permeate popular opinion, the press, and the legal system. Based on research involving victims' accounts of their experiences, the analysis of police reporting practices, and the monitoring of Crown Court trials, Sue Lees describes the way women are encouraged to report rape only then to be intimidated by their assailants and see them walk free. She draws on survivors' voices to describe how rapes occur and the characteristics of typical rapists. Citing reforms in other countries, she argues the case for further radical reforms to reverse the imbalances of the judicial process and to create a system that will provide justice for victims without jeopardizing the rights of defendants.

Genres: Law, Nonfiction, Feminism

320 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sue Lee's investigation into rape trials in the late 90's early 00's is fascinating, thorough and will make any woman angry beyond belief. I am well aware of the need to keep a trial fair and avoid any false allegation scenarios - however the way that victims (and Lees only concentrates on the female in this particualr study) are sometimes treated within a court environment is disgusting and sad. I got so angry at one point i threw the book across the room. Whereas since Lees study, there HAS been progress and reform in this area there is still a strong need for consistency in the way we treat victims of rape.