Lords issue landmark abuse ruling

Victims of sexual abuse may be able to sue their attackers after many years, following a ruling by the Law Lords. They ruled a convicted rapist who later won £7m on the National Lottery could be sued by his victim - even though her claim was outside a six-year deadline.
Iorworth Hoare, 53, was jailed for life in May 1989 for the attempted rape of the 59-year-old woman, Mrs A, in Leeds.

The Lords backed four more appeals; it is thought their decision could allow a number of other cases to be brought. A fair trial can be possible long after the event and sometimes the law has no choice.

Baroness Hale Until now sexual abuse victims have been prevented from bringing a claim more than six years after an attack or, in child abuse cases, more than six years after the victim reaches 18.

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This story is interesting because it shows some flexibility in the British systems. It is also interesting that the Inmates are allowed to play the lottery and that the case can be brought back up.

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