FREE ESSAY ON BATTERED WOMAN SYNDROME DEFENSE

BATTERED WOMAN SYNDROME DEFENSE

The Battered Women Syndrome is a series of characteristics in women who are physically and
psychologically abused by an important dominant male in their lives. These women learn
helplessness and dependency; sometimes these characteristics originate from childhood.
According to Dr. Lenore E. Walker, a woman must experience two cycles, before she can be
labeled a "battered woman". The two cycles are called the "cycle of violence". This cycle
leads to the feeling that the abuse will never stop. It almost becomes natural. Sometimes
the relationships will be calm, and the abuser will apologize for what happened. This
part is called the "honeymoon cycle", but at other points in the cycle the tension and
arguments just soar all the time (divorcenet.12-3-00). After years, the cycle starts to
go quicker. At this point, the woman starts to feel trapped, because she would go through
these cycles more than once a day. At some, certain point, she will have to act out in
what is legally considered "self-defense". 
Stereotypes of battered women will always be around. Many people wonder why don't the
wives or girlfriends just get help?, why don't they tell someone?, or just get up and
leave. People fail to realize that leaving an abusive relationship can make matters
worst. Some can't leave because she is financially dependent or they have children,
and/or their mates threaten to kill her and her children or take her children away. A
real mother would never leave her children, in any situation. The prosecutors usually
always bring up these stereotypes of battered women. In some situations the woman will
leave, but staying out is hard for her or he makes it hard for her. Once the woman leaves
he will usually do his best to find her and when he does, he threatens her, or may
embarrass her, and she'll leave with him because of the scene he makes. In addition to
all these reasons to why women stay in abusive relationships, is because women lose their
self-esteem and eventually don't have the energy to leave. 
In order for the Battered Woman Syndrome claim to be used expert testimony is essential.
This is needed in order to give matter to the argument that justifies what the woman did.
It is also needed because there needs to be an explanation of the Syndrome to juries, in
away they can understand. Learned helplessness and other scientific knowledge need to be
explained in order for the jury to understand. To understand what the woman is going
through, what she was thinking at the time she committed the crime, and that she did it
(murder her abuser) it because she honestly felt that it was the only solution in getting
the "cycle of violence". First, the women must show that she is able to prove either
through her own testimony or through the testimony of other witnesses that she is a
"battered woman". She must then provide proof that the expert who she has chosen is
qualified in the field. Some think that the defense based on Battered Woman Syndrome is
an insanity defense, because of the experts who are brought in to explain the
characteristics of the syndrome, psychologists or psychiatrists. Also because the word
"syndrome" is often used to describe mental illnesses. "First her husband, now the
courts", is what one of the signs read at a march during the third trial of Idalia Mejia
in 1978(Gillespie 165). In addition to the violent husband and the courts filled with
prosecutors and confused jurors abuse a woman once she has tried to protect herself, but
so do the police. Police officers receive little training in dealing with domestic
violence cases. The techniques are usually to defuse the situation. Rarely do officers
make an arrest. Police departments have what is called "stitch rule" this is a victim
needs to have a certain amount of stitches before officers are required to make an
arrest. People always ask the same question, well why did she call for help? When the
woman finals builds up the courage to actually call the police for help, they arrive to
do nothing for her except maybe make situation worst. 
The worst part of the authorities failing in helping a person is when these people
(police officers, prosecutors) believe that they have no business in the next man's
business. Some also believe that beating your wife is not important enough for the
criminal courts; and those who file a complaint are just trying to manipulate their
husband (Gillespie 140).
Once the man is arrested for battering his wife, he is most likely to be released on his
own recognizance, while he waits for trial date. Once this all happens he goes back home
and tries to give some kind of remorse to his wife so that she can drop the charges. Some
are released merely because they promised the judge that they wouldn't do it again
(Gillespie 142). Also restraining orders might as well mean nothing. An officer usually
will not arrest a man who violates his order unless the violation occurs in front of him.
My opinion if this is a fact amongst officers, than what is the point of charging any one
with a crime?, murder, rape, child abuse id authorities didn't see it for themselves or
someone confesses. I think a restraining order should be in police officers computers,
just the same way a warrant is in the computers. When the abusers go to trial and get
convicted they get the low degree of assault and might be sent to jail for, maybe, a
year.
A woman on the Maury Povich talk show (aired 12-7-00), was a woman that was nearly
killed, if it wasn't for her son waking up to the noise. Her husband was beating her with
a hammer against her head. After several blows to her head and her blacking out every now
and then, he came at her with a knife to stab her. Then her 6-year old son came out of
his room and saw his mother laying on the floor with blood every where, a her husband was
about to stab her she try to prevent him from going any further he slipped and stabbed
his self. As he fell to the floor the little boy unlocked the door and helped his mother
to the neighbor's house. He was prosecuted and sent to jail for 3 years only. From what I
know I would consider what he did to his wife was attempted murder. I don't believe that
someone who obviously tries to kill his wife should go to jail for only 3years. Once this
man gets out he'll come back for her. Who will protect her again? If she has a
restraining order out on him she might be protected. Not only should he have been charged
with attempted murder but also he should have received a charge of endangering the
child's welfare. But yet, these men get the lesser of the highest charge possible.
There are women who misuse and abuse the claim of Battered Women Syndrome. Some are just
trying to find an easy way out. They use it because they planned the whole murder out,
they hired a hit man, or they came once already out of relationship; they try to get a
lighter sentence. We do we will be holding essential evidence for those who really need
it. This defense can read to "not guilty" verdicts. If we exclude this type of defense we
would be sending a woman to jail for a crime which she honestly had no choice but to
commit. In the sixth amendment, it states that in all criminal trials, the accused has
the right to present a defense.
Deciding who has a case, and who doesn't, is the jury's job. Courts shouldn't limited the
kinds of defenses that people are allowed to use in a case, limiting types of defenses
means you might be stripping someone of their innocence. Women, especially battered
women, have to go through a lot in this country to gain respect. Being dependent and
helpless on the next person makes it hard for women to gain respect, especially if she
has to kill someone just to get back sense of control. Battered women are not only
victims, but they are strong courageous survivors. I did this research because I always
seen on t.v. now the police officers never arrest men who have obviously have beaten on
their wives. I want to know what happens to a woman when she has no choice but to kill
her husband in self-defense and keep her children safe. "If we as a society can not make
the distinction between real victims and "excusemongers", it's not because there is
something wrong with battered women, it's because there is something wrong with us
(Winters 153)."
In conclusion, the Battered Woman Syndrome defense is a defense that can be used in
courts for battered women who kill their abusers out of the self-defense. The Battered
Woman Syndrome is a series of learned characteristics. Characteristics like learned
helplessness and dependency. Sometimes they are learned while in an abusive relationship
or just a childhood thing. There are many stereotypes as to why doesn't the woman just
leave?, the answer to that is, it's not that easy. In order for the woman to successfully
use the syndrome she has to be labeled a "battered woman". It is not an insanity defense.
Its purpose is to show the court that there was a reasonable reason to why she committed
this crime. Making sure that the understanding of the syndrome is understood, because
essential to a woman's case. It is a self-defense, defense which every man and woman is
entitled to. "The Battered Woman Syndrome testimony is offered in a self-defense trial to
shed light on the reasonableness of the defendant's behavior (Gillespie 159)." 
The Battered Women Syndrome is a series of characteristics in women who are physically
and psychologically abused by an important dominant male in their lives. These women
learn helplessness and dependency; sometimes these characteristics originate from
childhood. According to Dr. Lenore E. Walker, a woman must experience two cycles, before
she can be labeled a "battered woman". The two cycles are called the "cycle of violence".
This cycle leads to the feeling that the abuse will never stop. It almost becomes
natural. Sometimes the relationships will be calm, and the abuser will apologize for what
happened. This part is called the "honeymoon cycle", but at other points in the cycle the
tension and arguments just soar all the time (divorcenet.12-3-00). After years, the cycle
starts to go quicker. At this point, the woman starts to feel trapped, because she would
go through these cycles more than once a day. At some, certain point, she will have to
act out in what is legally considered "self-defense". 
Stereotypes of battered women will always be around. Many people wonder why don't the
wives or girlfriends just get help?, why don't they tell someone?, or just get up and
leave. People fail to realize that leaving an abusive relationship can make matters
worst. Some can't leave because she is financially dependent or they have children,
and/or their mates threaten to kill her and her children or take her children away. A
real mother would never leave her children, in any situation. The prosecutors usually
always bring up these stereotypes of battered women. In some situations the woman will
leave, but staying out is hard for her or he makes it hard for her. Once the woman leaves
he will usually do his best to find her and when he does, he threatens her, or may
embarrass her, and she'll leave with him because of the scene he makes. In addition to
all these reasons to why women stay in abusive relationships, is because women lose their
self-esteem and eventually don't have the energy to leave. 
In order for the Battered Woman Syndrome claim to be used expert testimony is essential.
This is needed in order to give matter to the argument that justifies what the woman did.
It is also needed because there needs to be an explanation of the Syndrome to juries, in
away they can understand. Learned helplessness and other scientific knowledge need to be
explained in order for the jury to understand. To understand what the woman is going
through, what she was thinking at the time she committed the crime, and that she did it
(murder her abuser) it because she honestly felt that it was the only solution in getting
the "cycle of violence". First, the women must show that she is able to prove either
through her own testimony or through the testimony of other witnesses that she is a
"battered woman". She must then provide proof that the expert who she has chosen is
qualified in the field. Some think that the defense based on Battered Woman Syndrome is
an insanity defense, because of the experts who are brought in to explain the
characteristics of the syndrome, psychologists or psychiatrists. Also because the word
"syndrome" is often used to describe mental illnesses. "First her husband, now the
courts", is what one of the signs read at a march during the third trial of Idalia Mejia
in 1978(Gillespie 165). In addition to the violent husband and the courts filled with
prosecutors and confused jurors abuse a woman once she has tried to protect herself, but
so do the police. Police officers receive little training in dealing with domestic
violence cases. The techniques are usually to defuse the situation. Rarely do officers
make an arrest. Police departments have what is called "stitch rule" this is a victim
needs to have a certain amount of stitches before officers are required to make an
arrest. People always ask the same question, well why did she call for help? When the
woman finals builds up the courage to actually call the police for help, they arrive to
do nothing for her except maybe make situation worst. 
The worst part of the authorities failing in helping a person is when these people
(police officers, prosecutors) believe that they have no business in the next man's
business. Some also believe that beating your wife is not important enough for the
criminal courts; and those who file a complaint are just trying to manipulate their
husband (Gillespie 140).
Once the man is arrested for battering his wife, he is most likely to be released on his
own recognizance, while he waits for trial date. Once this all happens he goes back home
and tries to give some kind of remorse to his wife so that she can drop the charges. Some
are released merely because they promised the judge that they wouldn't do it again
(Gillespie 142). Also restraining orders might as well mean nothing. An officer usually
will not arrest a man who violates his order unless the violation occurs in front of him.
My opinion if this is a fact amongst officers, than what is the point of charging any one
with a crime?, murder, rape, child abuse id authorities didn't see it for themselves or
someone confesses. I think a restraining order should be in police officers computers,
just the same way a warrant is in the computers. When the abusers go to trial and get
convicted they get the low degree of assault and might be sent to jail for, maybe, a
year.
A woman on the Maury Povich talk show (aired 12-7-00), was a woman that was nearly
killed, if it wasn't for her son waking up to the noise. Her husband was beating her with
a hammer against her head. After several blows to her head and her blacking out every now
and then, he came at her with a knife to stab her. Then her 6-year old son came out of
his room and saw his mother laying on the floor with blood every where, a her husband was
about to stab her she try to prevent him from going any further he slipped and stabbed
his self. As he fell to the floor the little boy unlocked the door and helped his mother
to the neighbor's house. He was prosecuted and sent to jail for 3 years only. From what I
know I would consider what he did to his wife was attempted murder. I don't believe that
someone who obviously tries to kill his wife should go to jail for only 3years. Once this
man gets out he'll come back for her. Who will protect her again? If she has a
restraining order out on him she might be protected. Not only should he have been charged
with attempted murder but also he should have received a charge of endangering the
child's welfare. But yet, these men get the lesser of the highest charge possible.
There are women who misuse and abuse the claim of Battered Women Syndrome. Some are just
trying to find an easy way out. They use it because they planned the whole murder out,
they hired a hit man, or they came once already out of relationship; they try to get a
lighter sentence. We do we will be holding essential evidence for those who really need
it. This defense can read to "not guilty" verdicts. If we exclude this type of defense we
would be sending a woman to jail for a crime which she honestly had no choice but to
commit. In the sixth amendment, it states that in all criminal trials, the accused has
the right to present a defense.
Deciding who has a case, and who doesn't, is the jury's job. Courts shouldn't limited the
kinds of defenses that people are allowed to use in a case, limiting types of defenses
means you might be stripping someone of their innocence. Women, especially battered
women, have to go through a lot in this country to gain respect. Being dependent and
helpless on the next person makes it hard for women to gain respect, especially if she
has to kill someone just to get back sense of control. Battered women are not only
victims, but they are strong courageous survivors. I did this research because I always
seen on t.v. now the police officers never arrest men who have obviously have beaten on
their wives. I want to know what happens to a woman when she has no choice but to kill
her husband in self-defense and keep her children safe. "If we as a society can not make
the distinction between real victims and "excusemongers", it's not because there is
something wrong with battered women, it's because there is something wrong with us
(Winters 153)."
In conclusion, the Battered Woman Syndrome defense is a defense that can be used in
courts for battered women who kill their abusers out of the self-defense. The Battered
Woman Syndrome is a series of learned characteristics. Characteristics like learned
helplessness and dependency. Sometimes they are learned while in an abusive relationship
or just a childhood thing. There are many stereotypes as to why doesn't the woman just
leave?, the answer to that is, it's not that easy. In order for the woman to successfully
use the syndrome she has to be labeled a "battered woman". It is not an insanity defense.
Its purpose is to show the court that there was a reasonable reason to why she committed
this crime. Making sure that the understanding of the syndrome is understood, because
essential to a woman's case. It is a self-defense, defense which every man and woman is
entitled to. "The Battered Woman Syndrome testimony is offered in a self-defense trial to
shed light on the reasonableness of the defendant's behavior (Gillespie 159)." 
The Battered Women Syndrome is a series of characteristics in women who are physically
and psychologically abused by an important dominant male in their lives. These women
learn helplessness and dependency; sometimes these characteristics originate from
childhood. According to Dr. Lenore E. Walker, a woman must experience two cycles, before
she can be labeled a "battered woman". The two cycles are called the "cycle of violence".
This cycle leads to the feeling that the abuse will never stop. It almost becomes
natural. Sometimes the relationships will be calm, and the abuser will apologize for what
happened. This part is called the "honeymoon cycle", but at other points in the cycle the
tension and arguments just soar all the time (divorcenet.12-3-00). After years, the cycle
starts to go quicker. At this point, the woman starts to feel trapped, because she would
go through these cycles more than once a day. At some, certain point, she will have to
act out in what is legally considered "self-defense". 
Stereotypes of battered women will always be around. Many people wonder why don't the
wives or girlfriends just get help?, why don't they tell someone?, or just get up and
leave. People fail to realize that leaving an abusive relationship can make matters
worst. Some can't leave because she is financially dependent or they have children,
and/or their mates threaten to kill her and her children or take her children away. A
real mother would never leave her children, in any situation. The prosecutors usually
always bring up these stereotypes of battered women. In some situations the woman will
leave, but staying out is hard for her or he makes it hard for her. Once the woman leaves
he will usually do his best to find her and when he does, he threatens her, or may
embarrass her, and she'll leave with him because of the scene he makes. In addition to
all these reasons to why women stay in abusive relationships, is because women lose their
self-esteem and eventually don't have the energy to leave. 
In order for the Battered Woman Syndrome claim to be used expert testimony is essential.
This is needed in order to give matter to the argument that justifies what the woman did.
It is also needed because there needs to be an explanation of the Syndrome to juries, in
away they can understand. Learned helplessness and other scientific knowledge need to be
explained in order for the jury to understand. To understand what the woman is going
through, what she was thinking at the time she committed the crime, and that she did it
(murder her abuser) it because she honestly felt that it was the only solution in getting
the "cycle of violence". First, the women must show that she is able to prove either
through her own testimony or through the testimony of other witnesses that she is a
"battered woman". She must then provide proof that the expert who she has chosen is
qualified in the field. Some think that the defense based on Battered Woman Syndrome is
an insanity defense, because of the experts who are brought in to explain the
characteristics of the syndrome, psychologists or psychiatrists. Also because the word
"syndrome" is often used to describe mental illnesses. "First her husband, now the
courts", is what one of the signs read at a march during the third trial of Idalia Mejia
in 1978(Gillespie 165). In addition to the violent husband and the courts filled with
prosecutors and confused jurors abuse a woman once she has tried to protect herself, but
so do the police. Police officers receive little training in dealing with domestic
violence cases. The techniques are usually to defuse the situation. Rarely do officers
make an arrest. Police departments have what is called "stitch rule" this is a victim
needs to have a certain amount of stitches before officers are required to make an
arrest. People always ask the same question, well why did she call for help? When the
woman finals builds up the courage to actually call the police for help, they arrive to
do nothing for her except maybe make situation worst. 
The worst part of the authorities failing in helping a person is when these people
(police officers, prosecutors) believe that they have no business in the next man's
business. Some also believe that beating your wife is not important enough for the
criminal courts; and those who file a complaint are just trying to manipulate their
husband (Gillespie 140).
Once the man is arrested for battering his wife, he is most likely to be released on his
own recognizance, while he waits for trial date. Once this all happens he goes back home
and tries to give some kind of remorse to his wife so that she can drop the charges. Some
are released merely because they promised the judge that they wouldn't do it again
(Gillespie 142). Also restraining orders might as well mean nothing. An officer usually
will not arrest a man who violates his order unless the violation occurs in front of him.
My opinion if this is a fact amongst officers, than what is the point of charging any one
with a crime?, murder, rape, child abuse id authorities didn't see it for themselves or
someone confesses. I think a restraining order should be in police officers computers,
just the same way a warrant is in the computers. When the abusers go to trial and get
convicted they get the low degree of assault and might be sent to jail for, maybe, a
year.
A woman on the Maury Povich talk show (aired 12-7-00), was a woman that was nearly
killed, if it wasn't for her son waking up to the noise. Her husband was beating her with
a hammer against her head. After several blows to her head and her blacking out every now
and then, he came at her with a knife to stab her. Then her 6-year old son came out of
his room and saw his mother laying on the floor with blood every where, a her husband was
about to stab her she try to prevent him from going any further he slipped and stabbed
his self. As he fell to the floor the little boy unlocked the door and helped his mother
to the neighbor's house. He was prosecuted and sent to jail for 3 years only. From what I
know I would consider what he did to his wife was attempted murder. I don't believe that
someone who obviously tries to kill his wife should go to jail for only 3years. Once this
man gets out he'll come back for her. Who will protect her again? If she has a
restraining order out on him she might be protected. Not only should he have been charged
with attempted murder but also he should have received a charge of endangering the
child's welfare. But yet, these men get the lesser of the highest charge possible.
There are women who misuse and abuse the claim of Battered Women Syndrome. Some are just
trying to find an easy way out. They use it because they planned the whole murder out,
they hired a hit man, or they came once already out of relationship; they try to get a
lighter sentence. We do we will be holding essential evidence for those who really need
it. This defense can read to "not guilty" verdicts. If we exclude this type of defense we
would be sending a woman to jail for a crime which she honestly had no choice but to
commit. In the sixth amendment, it states that in all criminal trials, the accused has
the right to present a defense.
Deciding who has a case, and who doesn't, is the jury's job. Courts shouldn't limited the
kinds of defenses that people are allowed to use in a case, limiting types of defenses
means you might be stripping someone of their innocence. Women, especially battered
women, have to go through a lot in this country to gain respect. Being dependent and
helpless on the next person makes it hard for women to gain respect, especially if she
has to kill someone just to get back sense of control. Battered women are not only
victims, but they are strong courageous survivors. I did this research because I always
seen on t.v. now the police officers never arrest men who have obviously have beaten on
their wives. I want to know what happens to a woman when she has no choice but to kill
her husband in self-defense and keep her children safe. "If we as a society can not make
the distinction between real victims and "excusemongers", it's not because there is
something wrong with battered women, it's because there is something wrong with us
(Winters 153)."
In conclusion, the Battered Woman Syndrome defense is a defense that can be used in
courts for battered women who kill their abusers out of the self-defense. The Battered
Woman Syndrome is a series of learned characteristics. Characteristics like learned
helplessness and dependency. Sometimes they are learned while in an abusive relationship
or just a childhood thing. There are many stereotypes as to why doesn't the woman just
leave?, the answer to that is, it's not that easy. In order for the woman to successfully
use the syndrome she has to be labeled a "battered woman". It is not an insanity defense.
Its purpose is to show the court that there was a reasonable reason to why she committed
this crime. Making sure that the understanding of the syndrome is understood, because
essential to a woman's case. It is a self-defense, defense which every man and woman is
entitled to. "The Battered Woman Syndrome testimony is offered in a self-defense trial to
shed light on the reasonableness of the defendant's behavior (Gillespie 159)." 
The Battered Women Syndrome is a series of characteristics in women who are physically
and psychologically abused by an important dominant male in their lives. These women
learn helplessness and dependency; sometimes these characteristics originate from
childhood. According to Dr. Lenore E. Walker, a woman must experience two cycles, before
she can be labeled a "battered woman". The two cycles are called the "cycle of violence".
This cycle leads to the feeling that the abuse will never stop. It almost becomes
natural. Sometimes the relationships will be calm, and the abuser will apologize for what
happened. This part is called the "honeymoon cycle", but at other points in the cycle the
tension and arguments just soar all the time (divorcenet.12-3-00). After years, the cycle
starts to go quicker. At this point, the woman starts to feel trapped, because she would
go through these cycles more than once a day. At some, certain point, she will have to
act out in what is legally considered "self-defense". 
Stereotypes of battered women will always be around. Many people wonder why don't the
wives or girlfriends just get help?, why don't they tell someone?, or just get up and
leave. People fail to realize that leaving an abusive relationship can make matters
worst. Some can't leave because she is financially dependent or they have children,
and/or their mates threaten to kill her and her children or take her children away. A
real mother would never leave her children, in any situation. The prosecutors usually
always bring up these stereotypes of battered women. In some situations the woman will
leave, but staying out is hard for her or he makes it hard for her. Once the woman leaves
he will usually do his best to find her and when he does, he threatens her, or may
embarrass her, and she'll leave with him because of the scene he makes. In addition to
all these reasons to why women stay in abusive relationships, is because women lose their
self-esteem and eventually don't have the energy to leave. 
In order for the Battered Woman Syndrome claim to be used expert testimony is essential.
This is needed in order to give matter to the argument that justifies what the woman did.
It is also needed because there needs to be an explanation of the Syndrome to juries, in
away they can understand. Learned helplessness and other scientific knowledge need to be
explained in order for the jury to understand. To understand what the woman is going
through, what she was thinking at the time she committed the crime, and that she did it
(murder her abuser) it because she honestly felt that it was the only solution in getting
the "cycle of violence". First, the women must show that she is able to prove either
through her own testimony or through the testimony of other witnesses that she is a
"battered woman". She must then provide proof that the expert who she has chosen is
qualified in the field. Some think that the defense based on Battered Woman Syndrome is
an insanity defense, because of the experts who are brought in to explain the
characteristics of the syndrome, psychologists or psychiatrists. Also because the word
"syndrome" is often used to describe mental illnesses. "First her husband, now the
courts", is what one of the signs read at a march during the third trial of Idalia Mejia
in 1978(Gillespie 165). In addition to the violent husband and the courts filled with
prosecutors and confused jurors abuse a woman once she has tried to protect herself, but
so do the police. Police officers receive little training in dealing with domestic
violence cases. The techniques are usually to defuse the situation. Rarely do officers
make an arrest. Police departments have what is called "stitch rule" this is a victim
needs to have a certain amount of stitches before officers are required to make an
arrest. People always ask the same question, well why did she call for help? When the
woman finals builds up the courage to actually call the police for help, they arrive to
do nothing for her except maybe make situation worst. 
The worst part of the authorities failing in helping a person is when these people
(police officers, prosecutors) believe that they have no business in the next man's
business. Some also believe that beating your wife is not important enough for the
criminal courts; and those who file a complaint are just trying to manipulate their
husband (Gillespie 140).
Once the man is arrested for battering his wife, he is most likely to be released on his
own recognizance, while he waits for trial date. Once this all happens he goes back home
and tries to give some kind of remorse to his wife so that she can drop the charges. Some
are released merely because they promised the judge that they wouldn't do it again
(Gillespie 142). Also restraining orders might as well mean nothing. An officer usually
will not arrest a man who violates his order unless the violation occurs in front of him.
My opinion if this is a fact amongst officers, than what is the point of charging any one
with a crime?, murder, rape, child abuse id authorities didn't see it for themselves or
someone confesses. I think a restraining order should be in police officers computers,
just the same way a warrant is in the computers. When the abusers go to trial and get
convicted they get the low degree of assault and might be sent to jail for, maybe, a
year.
A woman on the Maury Povich talk show (aired 12-7-00), was a woman that was nearly
killed, if it wasn't for her son waking up to the noise. Her husband was beating her with
a hammer against her head. After several blows to her head and her blacking out every now
and then, he came at her with a knife to stab her. Then her 6-year old son came out of
his room and saw his mother laying on the floor with blood every where, a her husband was
about to stab her she try to prevent him from going any further he slipped and stabbed
his self. As he fell to the floor the little boy unlocked the door and helped his mother
to the neighbor's house. He was prosecuted and sent to jail for 3 years only. From what I
know I would consider what he did to his wife was attempted murder. I don't believe that
someone who obviously tries to kill his wife should go to jail for only 3years. Once this
man gets out he'll come back for her. Who will protect her again? If she has a
restraining order out on him she might be protected. Not only should he have been charged
with attempted murder but also he should have received a charge of endangering the
child's welfare. But yet, these men get the lesser of the highest charge possible.
There are women who misuse and abuse the claim of Battered Women Syndrome. Some are just
trying to find an easy way out. They use it because they planned the whole murder out,
they hired a hit man, or they came once already out of relationship; they try to get a
lighter sentence. We do we will be holding essential evidence for those who really need
it. This defense can read to "not guilty" verdicts. If we exclude this type of defense we
would be sending a woman to jail for a crime which she honestly had no choice but to
commit. In the sixth amendment, it states that in all criminal trials, the accused has
the right to present a defense.
Deciding who has a case, and who doesn't, is the jury's job. Courts shouldn't limited the
kinds of defenses that people are allowed to use in a case, limiting types of defenses
means you might be stripping someone of their innocence. Women, especially battered
women, have to go through a lot in this country to gain respect. Being dependent and
helpless on the next person makes it hard for women to gain respect, especially if she
has to kill someone just to get back sense of control. Battered women are not only
victims, but they are strong courageous survivors. I did this research because I always
seen on t.v. now the police officers never arrest men who have obviously have beaten on
their wives. I want to know what happens to a woman when she has no choice but to kill
her husband in self-defense and keep her children safe. "If we as a society can not make
the distinction between real victims and "excusemongers", it's not because there is
something wrong with battered women, it's because there is something wrong with us
(Winters 153)."
In conclusion, the Battered Woman Syndrome defense is a defense that can be used in
courts for battered women who kill their abusers out of the self-defense. The Battered
Woman Syndrome is a series of learned characteristics. Characteristics like learned
helplessness and dependency. Sometimes they are learned while in an abusive relationship
or just a childhood thing. There are many stereotypes as to why doesn't the woman just
leave?, the answer to that is, it's not that easy. In order for the woman to successfully
use the syndrome she has to be labeled a "battered woman". It is not an insanity defense.
Its purpose is to show the court that there was a reasonable reason to why she committed
this crime. Making sure that the understanding of the syndrome is understood, because
essential to a woman's case. It is a self-defense, defense which every man and woman is
entitled to. "The Battered Woman Syndrome testimony is offered in a self-defense trial to
shed light on the reasonableness of the defendant's behavior (Gillespie 159)." 
The Battered Women Syndrome is a series of characteristics in women who are physically
and psychologically abused by an important dominant male in their lives. These women
learn helplessness and dependency; sometimes these characteristics originate from
childhood. According to Dr. Lenore E. Walker, a woman must experience two cycles, before
she can be labeled a "battered woman". The two cycles are called the "cycle of violence".
This cycle leads to the feeling that the abuse will never stop. It almost becomes
natural. Sometimes the relationships will be calm, and the abuser will apologize for what
happened. This part is called the "honeymoon cycle", but at other points in the cycle the
tension and arguments just soar all the time (divorcenet.12-3-00). After years, the cycle
starts to go quicker. At this point, the woman starts to feel trapped, because she would
go through these cycles more than once a day. At some, certain point, she will have to
act out in what is legally considered "self-defense". 
Stereotypes of battered women will always be around. Many people wonder why don't the
wives or girlfriends just get help?, why don't they tell someone?, or just get up and
leave. People fail to realize that leaving an abusive relationship can make matters
worst. Some can't leave because she is financially dependent or they have children,
and/or their mates threaten to kill her and her children or take her children away. A
real mother would never leave her children, in any situation. The prosecutors usually
always bring up these stereotypes of battered women. In some situations the woman will
leave, but staying out is hard for her or he makes it hard for her. Once the woman leaves
he will usually do his best to find her and when he does, he threatens her, or may
embarrass her, and she'll leave with him because of the scene he makes. In addition to
all these reasons to why women stay in abusive relationships, is because women lose their
self-esteem and eventually don't have the energy to leave. 
In order for the Battered Woman Syndrome claim to be used expert testimony is essential.
This is needed in order to give matter to the argument that justifies what the woman did.
It is also needed because there needs to be an explanation of the Syndrome to juries, in
away they can understand. Learned helplessness and other scientific knowledge need to be
explained in order for the jury to understand. To understand what the woman is going
through, what she was thinking at the time she committed the crime, and that she did it
(murder her abuser) it because she honestly felt that it was the only solution in getting
the "cycle of violence". First, the women must show that she is able to prove either
through her own testimony or through the testimony of other witnesses that she is a
"battered woman". She must then provide proof that the expert who she has chosen is
qualified in the field. Some think that the defense based on Battered Woman Syndrome is
an insanity defense, because of the experts who are brought in to explain the
characteristics of the syndrome, psychologists or psychiatrists. Also because the word
"syndrome" is often used to describe mental illnesses. "First her husband, now the
courts", is what one of the signs read at a march during the third trial of Idalia Mejia
in 1978(Gillespie 165). In addition to the violent husband and the courts filled with
prosecutors and confused jurors abuse a woman once she has tried to protect herself, but
so do the police. Police officers receive little training in dealing with domestic
violence cases. The techniques are usually to defuse the situation. Rarely do officers
make an arrest. Police departments have what is called "stitch rule" this is a victim
needs to have a certain amount of stitches before officers are required to make an
arrest. People always ask the same question, well why did she call for help? When the
woman finals builds up the courage to actually call the police for help, they arrive to
do nothing for her except maybe make situation worst. 
The worst part of the authorities failing in helping a person is when these people
(police officers, prosecutors) believe that they have no business in the next man's
business. Some also believe that beating your wife is not important enough for the
criminal courts; and those who file a complaint are just trying to manipulate their
husband (Gillespie 140).
Once the man is arrested for battering his wife, he is most likely to be released on his
own recognizance, while he waits for trial date. Once this all happens he goes back home
and tries to give some kind of remorse to his wife so that she can drop the charges. Some
are released merely because they promised the judge that they wouldn't do it again
(Gillespie 142). Also restraining orders might as well mean nothing. An officer usually
will not arrest a man who violates his order unless the violation occurs in front of him.
My opinion if this is a fact amongst officers, than what is the point of charging any one
with a crime?, murder, rape, child abuse id authorities didn't see it for themselves or
someone confesses. I think a restraining order should be in police officers computers,
just the same way a warrant is in the computers. When the abusers go to trial and get
convicted they get the low degree of assault and might be sent to jail for, maybe, a
year.
A woman on the Maury Povich talk show (aired 12-7-00), was a woman that was nearly
killed, if it wasn't for her son waking up to the noise. Her husband was beating her with
a hammer against her head. After several blows to her head and her blacking out every now
and then, he came at her with a knife to stab her. Then her 6-year old son came out of
his room and saw his mother laying on the floor with blood every where, a her husband was
about to stab her she try to prevent him from going any further he slipped and stabbed
his self. As he fell to the floor the little boy unlocked the door and helped his mother
to the neighbor's house. He was prosecuted and sent to jail for 3 years only. From what I
know I would consider what he did to his wife was attempted murder. I don't believe that
someone who obviously tries to kill his wife should go to jail for only 3years. Once this
man gets out he'll come back for her. Who will protect her again? If she has a
restraining order out on him she might be protected. Not only should he have been charged
with attempted murder but also he should have received a charge of endangering the
child's welfare. But yet, these men get the lesser of the highest charge possible.
There are women who misuse and abuse the claim of Battered Women Syndrome. Some are just
trying to find an easy way out. They use it because they planned the whole murder out,
they hired a hit man, or they came once already out of relationship; they try to get a
lighter sentence. We do we will be holding essential evidence for those who really need
it. This defense can read to "not guilty" verdicts. If we exclude this type of defense we
would be sending a woman to jail for a crime which she honestly had no choice but to
commit. In the sixth amendment, it states that in all criminal trials, the accused has
the right to present a defense.
Deciding who has a case, and who doesn't, is the jury's job. Courts shouldn't limited the
kinds of defenses that people are allowed to use in a case, limiting types of defenses
means you might be stripping someone of their innocence. Women, especially battered
women, have to go through a lot in this country to gain respect. Being dependent and
helpless on the next person makes it hard for women to gain respect, especially if she
has to kill someone just to get back sense of control. Battered women are not only
victims, but they are strong courageous survivors. I did this research because I always
seen on t.v. now the police officers never arrest men who have obviously have beaten on
their wives. I want to know what happens to a woman when she has no choice but to kill
her husband in self-defense and keep her children safe. "If we as a society can not make
the distinction between real victims and "excusemongers", it's not because there is
something wrong with battered women, it's because there is something wrong with us
(Winters 153)."
In conclusion, the Battered Woman Syndrome defense is a defense that can be used in
courts for battered women who kill their abusers out of the self-defense. The Battered
Woman Syndrome is a series of learned characteristics. Characteristics like learned
helplessness and dependency. Sometimes they are learned while in an abusive relationship
or just a childhood thing. There are many stereotypes as to why doesn't the woman just
leave?, the answer to that is, it's not that easy. In order for the woman to successfully
use the syndrome she has to be labeled a "battered woman". It is not an insanity defense.
Its purpose is to show the court that there was a reasonable reason to why she committed
this crime. Making sure that the understanding of the syndrome is understood, because
essential to a woman's case. It is a self-defense, defense which every man and woman is
entitled to. "The Battered Woman Syndrome testimony is offered in a self-defense trial to
shed light on the reasonableness of the defendant's behavior (Gillespie 159)." 
The Battered Women Syndrome is a series of characteristics in women who are physically
and psychologically abused by an important dominant male in their lives. These women
learn helplessness and dependency; sometimes these characteristics originate from
childhood. According to Dr. Lenore E. Walker, a woman must experience two cycles, before
she can be labeled a "battered woman". The two cycles are called the "cycle of violence".
This cycle leads to the feeling that the abuse will never stop. It almost becomes
natural. Sometimes the relationships will be calm, and the abuser will apologize for what
happened. This part is called the "honeymoon cycle", but at other points in the cycle the
tension and arguments just soar all the time (divorcenet.12-3-00). After years, the cycle
starts to go quicker. At this point, the woman starts to feel trapped, because she would
go through these cycles more than once a day. At some, certain point, she will have to
act out in what is legally considered "self-defense". 
Stereotypes of battered women will always be around. Many people wonder why don't the
wives or girlfriends just get help?, why don't they tell someone?, or just get up and
leave. People fail to realize that leaving an abusive relationship can make matters
worst. Some can't leave because she is financially dependent or they have children,
and/or their mates threaten to kill her and her children or take her children away. A
real mother would never leave her children, in any situation. The prosecutors usually
always bring up these stereotypes of battered women. In some situations the woman will
leave, but staying out is hard for her or he makes it hard for her. Once the woman leaves
he will usually do his best to find her and when he does, he threatens her, or may
embarrass her, and she'll leave with him because of the scene he makes. In addition to
all these reasons to why women stay in abusive relationships, is because women lose their
self-esteem and eventually don't have the energy to leave. 
In order for the Battered Woman Syndrome claim to be used expert testimony is essential.
This is needed in order to give matter to the argument that justifies what the woman did.
It is also needed because there needs to be an explanation of the Syndrome to juries, in
away they can understand. Learned helplessness and other scientific knowledge need to be
explained in order for the jury to understand. To understand what the woman is going
through, what she was thinking at the time she committed the crime, and that she did it
(murder her abuser) it because she honestly felt that it was the only solution in getting
the "cycle of violence". First, the women must show that she is able to prove either
through her own testimony or through the testimony of other witnesses that she is a
"battered woman". She must then provide proof that the expert who she has chosen is
qualified in the field. Some think that the defense based on Battered Woman Syndrome is
an insanity defense, because of the experts who are brought in to explain the
characteristics of the syndrome, psychologists or psychiatrists. Also because the word
"syndrome" is often used to describe mental illnesses. "First her husband, now the
courts", is what one of the signs read at a march during the third trial of Idalia Mejia
in 1978(Gillespie 165). In addition to the violent husband and the courts filled with
prosecutors and confused jurors abuse a woman once she has tried to protect herself, but
so do the police. Police officers receive little training in dealing with domestic
violence cases. The techniques are usually to defuse the situation. Rarely do officers
make an arrest. Police departments have what is called "stitch rule" this is a victim
needs to have a certain amount of stitches before officers are required to make an
arrest. People always ask the same question, well why did she call for help? When the
woman finals builds up the courage to actually call the police for help, they arrive to
do nothing for her except maybe make situation worst. 
The worst part of the authorities failing in helping a person is when these people
(police officers, prosecutors) believe that they have no business in the next man's
business. Some also believe that beating your wife is not important enough for the
criminal courts; and those who file a complaint are just trying to manipulate their
husband (Gillespie 140).
Once the man is arrested for battering his wife, he is most likely to be released on his
own recognizance, while he waits for trial date. Once this all happens he goes back home
and tries to give some kind of remorse to his wife so that she can drop the charges. Some
are released merely because they promised the judge that they wouldn't do it again
(Gillespie 142). Also restraining orders might as well mean nothing. An officer usually
will not arrest a man who violates his order unless the violation occurs in front of him.
My opinion if this is a fact amongst officers, than what is the point of charging any one
with a crime?, murder, rape, child abuse id authorities didn't see it for themselves or
someone confesses. I think a restraining order should be in police officers computers,
just the same way a warrant is in the computers. When the abusers go to trial and get
convicted they get the low degree of assault and might be sent to jail for, maybe, a
year.
A woman on the Maury Povich talk show (aired 12-7-00), was a woman that was nearly
killed, if it wasn't for her son waking up to the noise. Her husband was beating her with
a hammer against her head. After several blows to her head and her blacking out every now
and then, he came at her with a knife to stab her. Then her 6-year old son came out of
his room and saw his mother laying on the floor with blood every where, a her husband was
about to stab her she try to prevent him from going any further he slipped and stabbed
his self. As he fell to the floor the little boy unlocked the door and helped his mother
to the neighbor's house. He was prosecuted and sent to jail for 3 years only. From what I
know I would consider what he did to his wife was attempted murder. I don't believe that
someone who obviously tries to kill his wife should go to jail for only 3years. Once this
man gets out he'll come back for her. Who will protect her again? If she has a
restraining order out on him she might be protected. Not only should he have been charged
with attempted murder but also he should have received a charge of endangering the
child's welfare. But yet, these men get the lesser of the highest charge possible.
There are women who misuse and abuse the claim of Battered Women Syndrome. Some are just
trying to find an easy way out. They use it because they planned the whole murder out,
they hired a hit man, or they came once already out of relationship; they try to get a
lighter sentence. We do we will be holding essential evidence for those who really need
it. This defense can read to "not guilty" verdicts. If we exclude this type of defense we
would be sending a woman to jail for a crime which she honestly had no choice but to
commit. In the sixth amendment, it states that in all criminal trials, the accused has
the right to present a defense.
Deciding who has a case, and who doesn't, is the jury's job. Courts shouldn't limited the
kinds of defenses that people are allowed to use in a case, limiting types of defenses
means you might be stripping someone of their innocence. Women, especially battered
women, have to go through a lot in this country to gain respect. Being dependent and
helpless on the next person makes it hard for women to gain respect, especially if she
has to kill someone just to get back sense of control. Battered women are not only
victims, but they are strong courageous survivors. I did this research because I always
seen on t.v. now the police officers never arrest men who have obviously have beaten on
their wives. I want to know what happens to a woman when she has no choice but to kill
her husband in self-defense and keep her children safe. "If we as a society can not make
the distinction between real victims and "excusemongers", it's not because there is
something wrong with battered women, it's because there is something wrong with us
(Winters 153)."
In conclusion, the Battered Woman Syndrome defense is a defense that can be used in
courts for battered women who kill their abusers out of the self-defense. The Battered
Woman Syndrome is a series of learned characteristics. Characteristics like learned
helplessness and dependency. Sometimes they are learned while in an abusive relationship
or just a childhood thing. There are many stereotypes as to why doesn't the woman just
leave?, the answer to that is, it's not that easy. In order for the woman to successfully
use the syndrome she has to be labeled a "battered woman". It is not an insanity defense.
Its purpose is to show the court that there was a reasonable reason to why she committed
this crime. Making sure that the understanding of the syndrome is understood, because
essential to a woman's case. It is a self-defense, defense which every man and woman is
entitled to. "The Battered Woman Syndrome testimony is offered in a self-defense trial to
shed light on the reasonableness of the defendant's behavior (Gillespie 159)." 
The Battered Women Syndrome is a series of characteristics in women who are physically
and psychologically abused by an important dominant male in their lives. These women
learn helplessness and dependency; sometimes these characteristics originate from
childhood. According to Dr. Lenore E. Walker, a woman must experience two cycles, before
she can be labeled a "battered woman". The two cycles are called the "cycle of violence".
This cycle leads to the feeling that the abuse will never stop. It almost becomes
natural. Sometimes the relationships will be calm, and the abuser will apologize for what
happened. This part is called the "honeymoon cycle", but at other points in the cycle the
tension and arguments just soar all the time (divorcenet.12-3-00). After years, the cycle
starts to go quicker. At this point, the woman starts to feel trapped, because she would
go through these cycles more than once a day. At some, certain point, she will have to
act out in what is legally considered "self-defense". 
Stereotypes of battered women will always be around. Many people wonder why don't the
wives or girlfriends just get help?, why don't they tell someone?, or just get up and
leave. People fail to realize that leaving an abusive relationship can make matters
worst. Some can't leave because she is financially dependent or they have children,
and/or their mates threaten to kill her and her children or take her children away. A
real mother would never leave her children, in any situation. The prosecutors usually
always bring up these stereotypes of battered women. In some situations the woman will
leave, but staying out is hard for her or he makes it hard for her. Once the woman leaves
he will usually do his best to find her and when he does, he threatens her, or may
embarrass her, and she'll leave with him because of the scene he makes. In addition to
all these reasons to why women stay in abusive relationships, is because women lose their
self-esteem and eventually don't have the energy to leave. 
In order for the Battered Woman Syndrome claim to be used expert testimony is essential.
This is needed in order to give matter to the argument that justifies what the woman did.
It is also needed because there needs to be an explanation of the Syndrome to juries, in
away they can understand. Learned helplessness and other scientific knowledge need to be
explained in order for the jury to understand. To understand what the woman is going
through, what she was thinking at the time she committed the crime, and that she did it
(murder her abuser) it because she honestly felt that it was the only solution in getting
the "cycle of violence". First, the women must show that she is able to prove either
through her own testimony or through the testimony of other witnesses that she is a
"battered woman". She must then provide proof that the expert who she has chosen is
qualified in the field. Some think that the defense based on Battered Woman Syndrome is
an insanity defense, because of the experts who are brought in to explain the
characteristics of the syndrome, psychologists or psychiatrists. Also because the word
"syndrome" is often used to describe mental illnesses. "First her husband, now the
courts", is what one of the signs read at a march during the third trial of Idalia Mejia
in 1978(Gillespie 165). In addition to the violent husband and the courts filled with
prosecutors and confused jurors abuse a woman once she has tried to protect herself, but
so do the police. Police officers receive little training in dealing with domestic
violence cases. The techniques are usually to defuse the situation. Rarely do officers
make an arrest. Police departments have what is called "stitch rule" this is a victim
needs to have a certain amount of stitches before officers are required to make an
arrest. People always ask the same question, well why did she call for help? When the
woman finals builds up the courage to actually call the police for help, they arrive to
do nothing for her except maybe make situation worst. 
The worst part of the authorities failing in helping a person is when these people
(police officers, prosecutors) believe that they have no business in the next man's
business. Some also believe that beating your wife is not important enough for the
criminal courts; and those who file a complaint are just trying to manipulate their
husband (Gillespie 140).
Once the man is arrested for battering his wife, he is most likely to be released on his
own recognizance, while he waits for trial date. Once this all happens he goes back home
and tries to give some kind of remorse to his wife so that she can drop the charges. Some
are released merely because they promised the judge that they wouldn't do it again
(Gillespie 142). Also restraining orders might as well mean nothing. An officer usually
will not arrest a man who violates his order unless the violation occurs in front of him.
My opinion if this is a fact amongst officers, than what is the point of charging any one
with a crime?, murder, rape, child abuse id authorities didn't see it for themselves or
someone confesses. I think a restraining order should be in police officers computers,
just the same way a warrant is in the computers. When the abusers go to trial and get
convicted they get the low degree of assault and might be sent to jail for, maybe, a
year.
A woman on the Maury Povich talk show (aired 12-7-00), was a woman that was nearly
killed, if it wasn't for her son waking up to the noise. Her husband was beating her with
a hammer against her head. After several blows to her head and her blacking out every now
and then, he came at her with a knife to stab her. Then her 6-year old son came out of
his room and saw his mother laying on the floor with blood every where, a her husband was
about to stab her she try to prevent him from going any further he slipped and stabbed
his self. As he fell to the floor the little boy unlocked the door and helped his mother
to the neighbor's house. He was prosecuted and sent to jail for 3 years only. From what I
know I would consider what he did to his wife was attempted murder. I don't believe that
someone who obviously tries to kill his wife should go to jail for only 3years. Once this
man gets out he'll come back for her. Who will protect her again? If she has a
restraining order out on him she might be protected. Not only should he have been charged
with attempted murder but also he should have received a charge of endangering the
child's welfare. But yet, these men get the lesser of the highest charge possible.
There are women who misuse and abuse the claim of Battered Women Syndrome. Some are just
trying to find an easy way out. They use it because they planned the whole murder out,
they hired a hit man, or they came once already out of relationship; they try to get a
lighter sentence. We do we will be holding essential evidence for those who really need
it. This defense can read to "not guilty" verdicts. If we exclude this type of defense we
would be sending a woman to jail for a crime which she honestly had no choice but to
commit. In the sixth amendment, it states that in all criminal trials, the accused has
the right to present a defense.
Deciding who has a case, and who doesn't, is the jury's job. Courts shouldn't limited the
kinds of defenses that people are allowed to use in a case, limiting types of defenses
means you might be stripping someone of their innocence. Women, especially battered
women, have to go through a lot in this country to gain respect. Being dependent and
helpless on the next person makes it hard for women to gain respect, especially if she
has to kill someone just to get back sense of control. Battered women are not only
victims, but they are strong courageous survivors. I did this research because I always
seen on t.v. now the police officers never arrest men who have obviously have beaten on
their wives. I want to know what happens to a woman when she has no choice but to kill
her husband in self-defense and keep her children safe. "If we as a society can not make
the distinction between real victims and "excusemongers", it's not because there is
something wrong with battered women, it's because there is something wrong with us
(Winters 153)."
In conclusion, the Battered Woman Syndrome defense is a defense that can be used in
courts for battered women who kill their abusers out of the self-defense. The Battered
Woman Syndrome is a series of learned characteristics. Characteristics like learned
helplessness and dependency. Sometimes they are learned while in an abusive relationship
or just a childhood thing. There are many stereotypes as to why doesn't the woman just
leave?, the answer to that is, it's not that easy. In order for the woman to successfully
use the syndrome she has to be labeled a "battered woman". It is not an insanity defense.
Its purpose is to show the court that there was a reasonable reason to why she committed
this crime. Making sure that the understanding of the syndrome is understood, because
essential to a woman's case. It is a self-defense, defense which every man and woman is
entitled to. "The Battered Woman Syndrome testimony is offered in a self-defense trial to
shed light on the reasonableness of the defendant's behavior (Gillespie 159)." 
Bibliography
Kandel, Minouche. Moving away from victim blaming: Challenging the notion of "Battered
Women's Syndrome.", Lifeline; Support Network for Battered women's Newsletter, 1997,
http://www.snbw.org/articles/BWS.html
Family Law advisor Home page. Family Law advisor articles: What is battered woman's
syndrome?, LawTek media group, LLC, 1999, http://www.divorcenet.com/or/or-art02.html
Gillespie, Cynthia, K, Justifiable Homicide, Ohio State University Press Columbus, 1989.
Sloan, Irving, J, The law of Self-Defense: Legal and ethical principles, Oceana
Publications Inc, London, Rome, New York, 1987.
Winters, Paul, A, America's Victims: Opposing Viewpoints, San Diego, Greenhaven, 1996.