Domestic abuse can involve a range of behaviours. It often takes place behind closed doors. It can be conducted online; it can involve psychological, as well as, or instead of, physical abuse.
This book traces the development of the law as it applies to domestic abuse in the criminal courts in Scotland, culminating in the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 which created a new criminal offence of domestic abuse covering psychological, sexual, financial and physical behaviours. This title provides clear guidance to practitioners and those working with domestic abuse about the criminal process; the background, the prosecutor's approach, arrest and bail, offences most associated with domestic abuse, vulnerable witnesses, evidential aspects and sentencing. The book covers important legislation including: