RT Article
T1 Responsibility or Responsibilization in Medical Evidencing of Domestic Violence? The Belgian Case Analyzed Through a Care Ethical Lens
JF Violence against women
VO 30
IS 2
SP 485
OP 502
A1 Vergaert, Eva
LA English
YR 2024
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1878572539
AB The prosecution of domestic violence remains a complex process within criminal policy in Belgium. Evidence is often reliant on medical certificates or injury reports, necessary for victims who want to file official complaints. However, medical evidencing is a contentious issue. Based on qualitative research among public prosecutors, victims, and general practitioners in Belgium, this study analyses the challenges these groups face through an ethics of care lens. Despite their crucial importance in legal procedures, the use of certificates is surrounded by contradictions. The issues point to an unequal distribution of responsibilities, which masks institutional and political responsibilities and enhances the responsibilization of victims.
K1 qualitative data triangulation
K1 ethics of care
K1 medical evidencing
K1 Domestic Violence
DO 10.1177/10778012221134824