Breaking a Restraining Order: Why a Breach Can Be a Serious Criminal Matter

A restraining order is not a suggestion. It is a court-ordered legal restriction designed to protect a person from further contact, harassment, intimidation, approach or violence. When a person deliberately breaks that order, the breach can become a new criminal offence in its own right. This is particularly important in cases involving domestic abuse, physical violence, threats or… Read More Breaking a Restraining Order: Why a Breach Can Be a Serious Criminal Matter

September 20, 2026September 22, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Facts, Evidence and the Rule of Law

One of the most important lessons I have learned is that justice is not built on rumours, opinions or assumptions. It is built on evidence. Evidence that can be examined. Evidence that can be challenged. Evidence that can be tested in a court of law. In my case, there were two criminal convictions in the Criminal… Read More Facts, Evidence and the Rule of Law

July 30, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

How far back can evidence go?

In many cases, courts can consider evidence that goes back many years, and they may also consider evidence from other countries, but it depends on the type of case, the relevance of the evidence, and the laws of the country where the proceedings are taking place. How far back can evidence go? There is no universal rule… Read More How far back can evidence go?

July 20, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

International agreements.

In Spain, criminal records are protected by privacy laws. They are not publicly available, and they are not routinely shared with employers, neighbours, or members of the public. Information from the Central Criminal Records Register may be shared only where Spanish law permits. This can include: The individual concerned, who can request their own criminal record certificate. Spanish courts and… Read More International agreements.

July 7, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Domestic violence convictions in Spain

In Spain, if an appeal against a criminal conviction is refused, the consequences depend on which court heard the case and which level of appeal has been exhausted. Generally: The conviction remains in force. The person continues to have a criminal conviction unless it is overturned by a higher court. The sentence remains enforceable. If there is… Read More Domestic violence convictions in Spain

July 7, 2026September 23, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

The conviction remains valid.

When an appeal against a criminal conviction is dismissed, refused, or thrown out, it generally means the appellate court has decided that the conviction should stand. The exact legal effect depends on the country and the stage of the proceedings, but the following are common outcomes: The conviction remains valid. It continues to form part of the person’s criminal… Read More The conviction remains valid.

July 7, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Criminal Records

Criminal records can have a significant impact on visas and international travel, but it depends on which country you’re travelling to, the nature of the offence, and the type of visa or entry permission required. Here’s a general overview: Countries where criminal records may affect entry United States – Visa and entry applications ask about criminal… Read More Criminal Records

July 7, 2026September 22, 2026 Linda C J Turner1 Comment

Domestic Abuse Cases Are Built on Evidence, Not Assumptions

There is a common misconception that restraining orders, protective measures and criminal convictions are handed out without good reason. They are not. Police do not simply issue protective measures because someone asks for one. Courts do not convict people without considering the evidence presented before them. Every case is different, and the legal thresholds vary… Read More Domestic Abuse Cases Are Built on Evidence, Not Assumptions

July 4, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Your Lawyer Doesn’t Have to Believe You

One of life’s great misunderstandings is the idea that a lawyer only represents innocent people. Imagine the interview. Client: “I’m completely blameless.” Lawyer: “Of course you are.” What the lawyer is actually thinking is probably closer to: “Where are the documents?” Lawyers are not hired to become members of your fan club. They are hired to explain… Read More Your Lawyer Doesn’t Have to Believe You

June 12, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Reporting Teachers in England

In the United Kingdom, concerns about teachers, safeguarding staff, social workers, or professionals working with children can be reported through several official channels depending on the role and seriousness of the allegations. Reporting Teachers in England The main professional body is the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA). They investigate serious professional misconduct including: safeguarding failures, abuse, sexual… Read More Reporting Teachers in England

May 29, 2026May 29, 2026 Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment