, SJD1501 Assignment 5 Semester 2 Memo |
Due 20 October 2025
Improving bail provisions is critical in the fight against gender-
based violence (GBV). Bail should protect not only the rights of
accused persons but also the safety and dignity of victims and
society. The following ideas suggest ways in which bail
provisions can be strengthened to better protect communities.
Firstly, stricter bail conditions for GBV accused should be
introduced. Conditions such as curfews, electronic monitoring,
and no-contact orders can ensure that accused persons do not
intimidate or harm victims while awaiting trial. This strikes a
balance between the rights of the accused and the need for
public safety.
Secondly, mandatory victim impact assessments before
granting bail can improve protection. Courts should be required
to consider the victim’s safety, fears, and possible harm before
deciding on bail. This allows survivors’ voices to be heard and
ensures that bail decisions prioritise human dignity and
community security.
Thirdly, denial of bail for repeat GBV offenders is essential.
Offenders with prior GBV cases present a higher risk of re-
offending. Denying bail in such cases protects victims from
ongoing harm while also sending a strong deterrent message
that repeated violence will not be tolerated in society.
Due 20 October 2025
Improving bail provisions is critical in the fight against gender-
based violence (GBV). Bail should protect not only the rights of
accused persons but also the safety and dignity of victims and
society. The following ideas suggest ways in which bail
provisions can be strengthened to better protect communities.
Firstly, stricter bail conditions for GBV accused should be
introduced. Conditions such as curfews, electronic monitoring,
and no-contact orders can ensure that accused persons do not
intimidate or harm victims while awaiting trial. This strikes a
balance between the rights of the accused and the need for
public safety.
Secondly, mandatory victim impact assessments before
granting bail can improve protection. Courts should be required
to consider the victim’s safety, fears, and possible harm before
deciding on bail. This allows survivors’ voices to be heard and
ensures that bail decisions prioritise human dignity and
community security.
Thirdly, denial of bail for repeat GBV offenders is essential.
Offenders with prior GBV cases present a higher risk of re-
offending. Denying bail in such cases protects victims from
ongoing harm while also sending a strong deterrent message
that repeated violence will not be tolerated in society.
