Prof Sharon Cowan discusses the use and impact of sexual history evidence in Scottish criminal trials
Tue 3 November 2020
Prof Sharon Cowan spoke at an EHRC webinar to discuss the use and impact of sexual history evidence in Scottish criminal trials, referring to her recently published review on the matter.
On Wednesday 21 October, Sharon Cowan, Professor of Feminist and Queer Legal Studies at Edinburgh Law School, presented at an Equality and Human Rights Commission Webinar.
The event follows on from the commission’s review of legislation, case law and research on the operation of ‘rape shield’ provisions in Scotland - a report by Prof Sharon Cowan called "The use of sexual history and bad character evidence in Scottish sexual offences trials", which was published in August 2020.
The review sought to better understand how the use of sexual history evidence and personal information affects complainers’ access to justice. Amongst other things, the Commission found evidence of a potential ‘justice gap’ in Scotland and identified concerns about how effective the rape shield provisions are in practice.
Sharon presented to the legal profession and academics, with an attendance of over 100.
Lawyers Without Borders
On the same day, Sharon Cowan also gave a talk to the student group Lawyers Without Borders at a refugee and asylum policy event pitched at students across the university.
Sharon appeared with practising lawyers in the field, to discuss contemporary issues surrounding immigration and refugee law and policy within the UK, including the impact of Covid on those seeking asylum in the UK.