The following lecture notes relate to a presentation give to ‘the floor’ of the Sir Owen Dixon Chambers by Dr Robert Cavanagh.
The presentation used the case of Kathleen Folbigg as a case example to examine the limitations of the criminal appeal process in Australia as it relates to victims of injustice and to propose an alternative approach – creating a Criminal Case Review Commission.
In response to instances of miscarriages of justice and a need for better post-conviction review mechanisms, the United Kingdom (in 1997),[i] Scotland (in 1999),[ii] Norway (in 2004)[iii] and New Zealand (in 2020)[iv] have established a Criminal Cases Review Commission. On…
Kathleen Folbigg wrote a letter to Mr Speakman, declaring her innocence and asking him to change his view and consider the scientific evidence to recommend she be pardoned. Read the complete letter here.
60 Minutes presents the scientific data and opinion that proves there are real medical explanations for the death of Kathleen’s children. Kathleen’s conviction can’t possibly be beyond reasonable doubt.
We are physiologically ‘designed’ to feel and respond to fear. Almost universally, we use fear in our interactions with others. However, it is also a tool for politicians to ensure the population remains complaint and accepts injustice.
Prisoners are often categorised as either mad, bad or sad. What does this mean really and should compassionate treatment be available to all prisoners?
See the original article by Quentin McDermott and published in the Australian on October 9, 2021 here. The very diaries that helped convict child killer Kathleen Folbigg may now hold the key to overturning her convictions. Four leading experts have come…
