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
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?
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: Within the European Union, criminal record information can also be exchanged between Member States… Read More International agreements.
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: Can there be further appeals? Sometimes, yes, but only in limited circumstances. Depending on the case, there may be: If all appeals fail Once all available… Read More Domestic violence convictions in Spain
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: It’s important to distinguish between different outcomes: If all appeals have been exhausted… Read More The conviction remains valid.
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 Europe and the Schengen Area For many tourists entering the… Read More Criminal Records
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
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
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: You can report concerns… Read More Reporting Teachers in England
Privacy and the law during forensic investigations try to balance two competing things: public safety and individual rights. Key legal/privacy principles usually include: 1. Lawful authority (warrants / court orders) Police generally need legal authority to search devices like phones or computers: The warrant should define: Searching beyond that can be challenged. 2. Proportionality In many legal systems… Read More Privacy and the law during forensic investigations
Linda C J Turner | Trauma Therapist & Emotional Healing Specialist 