criminal law - sex offender registers

The law is a reflection of the values of society, and therefore needs reform as the needs and values of society change. Conditions that may lead to law reform include failure of existing laws, international law reform, and the impact of new technology. Each of these conditions impact upon societal needs and values and consequentially often give way to reform of the legal system.

Whilst reflecting the values of society, the law also has the responsibility to protect the rights of both the victim and the accused. Thus, when changes in the law occur, a balance between maintaining the rights of the accused and not abusing the rights of the victim must be sustained. At times this creates conflict, particularly when it is perceived that the rights of the accused are too extensive. Such conflict has occurred within Australia with regards to sex offender registers and how effective these registers really are in balancing the rights of the victim, the accused and the community.

In J...