Sallmann P a (1 results)

Sallmann, P[eter] A. Chappell, Duncan. Rape Law Reform in South Australia: A Study of the Background to the Reforms of 1975 and 1976 and of Their Subsequent Impact. Adelaide: Adelaide Law Review Association, University of Adelaide, 1982. x, 110 pp. Softcover. Moderately worn and soiled. Front two leaves detached. Internally clean. $125. * A legal analysis and historical overview of the significant sexual offense law reforms enacted in South Australia during the mid-1970s which examines the background of the legal changes and evaluates their practical impact in the years following implementation. South Australia was the first common-law jurisdiction in the world to introduce legislation allowing husbands to be prosecuted for raping their wives. The book explores the intense debate that surrounded this controversial reform. Reforms in 1975 and 1976 broadened the legal definition of rape to include non-consensual anal and oral penetration of both men and women. The book analyzes new laws that placed restrictions on the use of a victim's past sexual history as evidence in rape trials. It also reviews the implementation of procedures that excused victims from testifying at preliminary hearings. The authors assess the early effects of the changes on the criminal justice system. They discuss the legislative intent behind the reforms and evaluate some of the practical problems experienced when the changes were put into effect.