Non-fatal strangulation victim-witnesses, brain injury and PTSD: Perspectives from prosecutors and defence counsel

Title: Non-fatal strangulation victim-witnesses, brain injury and PTSD: Perspectives from prosecutors and defence counsel.

Candidate: Sarah Kendall

Milestone: Confirmation

Project title: Non-fatal strangulation victim-witnesses, brain injury and PTSD: Perspectives from prosecutors and defence counsel

When: 10 - 11am, Thursday 22 July

Where: Zoom - https://uqz.zoom.us/j/2316954260 

Abstract 

Sarah’s thesis is examining the Non-Fatal Strangulation (‘NFS’) offence, investigating whether prosecutors and defence lawyers are aware that NFS victims might be suffering from a brain injury and/or PTSD. She is interested in finding out whether lawyers use knowledge of NFS, brain injury and PTSD in their prosecution or defence strategy. Sarah hopes the results of her thesis will inform recommendations for reforming the criminal trial in NFS cases so that these vulnerable victim-witnesses are treated with dignity.