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
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
There are sadly many cases where victims disclosed abuse, raised concerns, or were not fully believed or understood until after a serious assault or homicide. Every case is different, but they demonstrate why disclosures should be taken seriously. Some well-known examples include: Shana Grice (UK) – Shana repeatedly reported stalking and harassment by her ex-partner to… Read More Taking it seriously
In cases involving convicted child sexual offenders or individuals who have admitted such behaviour, researchers and forensic psychologists have identified several possible motivations: To appear “normal” or respectable. Marriage can create an image of stability and trustworthiness, making it less likely that others will suspect harmful behaviour. To gain access to children. In some cases, marriage provides… Read More A wedding ring is not evidence that someone is safe
You can often still visit New Zealand, Australia, and the USA with a criminal record, but it depends heavily on the type of offence, sentence, and how recent it is. Each country has its own rules, and they vary quite a bit. Here’s a clear breakdown: 🇳🇿 New Zealand You may be allowed in, but they… Read More “Crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT)”
Family harassment in Spain is taken seriously under both criminal law and police protection systems (including VioGén when relevant). It can apply even if there is no physical violence. Here’s a clear breakdown: 👨👩👧 What counts as family harassment? Family or “domestic” harassment can include behaviour from: Ex-partners or spouses Family members (in-laws included) People connected… Read More What counts as family harassment?
Here’s how police in Spain typically assess ongoing risk after long-term domestic violence or harassment cases(including cases that have been through restraining orders and may be in or out of VioGén monitoring). 🟡 1. Risk is not based on time — it’s based on behaviour patterns Police and risk assessors do not use a “time passed =… Read More Structured risk assessment tools (VPR / VPER)
Here’s a clear, practical explanation of what can still count as harassment, stalking, or indirect contact in Spain after a restraining order has expired. Even when an order ends, certain behaviours can still be treated as new offences under Spanish law if they are unwanted, repeated, or cause distress. 🚨 1. Harassment (acoso) This is repeated behaviour that disturbs… Read More Harassment (acoso)
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
When people hear the word predator, they often imagine a stranger lurking in the shadows. Reality is usually far more ordinary—and far more unsettling. Many predators are not obviously threatening. They can be charming, successful, generous, funny, respected, or deeply involved in their communities. Their public image often becomes part of their protection. The Psychology of… Read More Exposing Predators: Why Secrecy Is Their Greatest Protection
