Battered child's defense; youths who killed relatives offer evidence of abuse with mixed results

Article Abstract:

Courts in a number of states have held 'battered woman's syndrome' to be a defense for abused women who murder their abusers, but only in Texas and five other states is this defense allowed by law and only in Texas is its use not limited to women. A 'battered child's defense' is just beginning to be recognized. Successful self-defense claims must usually show that the defendant killed because of a fear of imminent bodily harm. With abused defendants, the defense tries to show how the abusive relationship can affect a perception of what an imminent threat is.

Psychological aspects, Analysis, Self-defense (Law), Self defense (Law), Battered child syndrome

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Bolstering benefits; Houston law firm's decision to offer insurance to domestic partners may spark a trend

Article Abstract:

Houston law firm Vinson and Elkins decision to offer domestic partner benefits adds the firm to a list of at least 40 big city law firms to make this decision. Gay rights advocates praise this move, regarding it as an especially significant victory which might influence other law firms. Jeffrey Gibson, chair of the Committee on the Rights of Lesbians and Gay Men of the ABA's Section of Individual Rights and Responsibilities, states that a large firm wields the influence to persuade others to follow.

Compensation and benefits, Texas, Law firms, Employee benefits, Gay couples, Vinson and Elkins L.L.P.

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Liability for spouse's abuse; new theory holds mothers accountable for failing to protect children

Article Abstract:

A Minnesota and a Texas court have found mothers guilty of negligence for not protecting children from sexual abuse by their spouses. In both cases, liability for the abuse was divided between the abuser and his wife. The verdicts show that the public is recognizing that child molesting occurs and becoming less tolerant of coverup attempts.

Remedies, Child sexual abuse, Joint tortfeasors

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