Abuse lawyer Elizabeth Duncan has been interviewed on the BBC about historical abuse cases.
Our specialist abuse team is recommended by the Legal 500. The 2025 edition notes our expertise in historical sexual abuse cases and praises lawyer Elizabeth Duncan, for being ’excellent with vulnerable clients’. For a free case review and details of our popular No Win, No Fee funding scheme call 0333 888 0404 or email [email protected].
Specialist abuse lawyer Elizabeth Duncan recently joined Charlie Taylor on BBC Radio Somerset’s Breakfast Programme, to discuss the challenges of bringing cases arising from historical abuse cases. Elizabeth shared her thoughts on the legal hurdles faced by victims of abuse, particularly those seeking justice for crimes that occurred years or even decades ago.
The legal issues relating to historical abuse compensation claims
Elizabeth highlighted the difficulties in prosecuting cases where perpetrators have passed away or are no longer fit to stand trial due to health issues, such as dementia. She also pointed out that obtaining crucial evidence and corroborating testimonies can be challenging after many years.
Charlie and Elizabeth discussed the way that the law in this area has changed, in particular how the Sexual Offences Act 2003 expanded the scope of offences that could be prosecuted and increased the severity of sentences for some offences. This means that offenders committing offences before that Act came into effect can be punished much more lightly than those offending more recently, even though they have avoided justice and lived a life of liberty for many years. Elizabeth commented how this can feel incredibly unjust to survivors of abuse who can bear a burden of psychological trauma lasting decades.
Charlie asked what her advice would be to anyone considering reporting abuse – whether that abuse occurred decades ago or yesterday. Elizabeth was clear that support is key and that survivors are not alone. It is never too late to reach out, speak out and seek justice. While it is not always possible for perpetrators to face the full weight of justice (for example if the passage of time means they are not fit to plead) reporting abuse can still help survivors in terms of validation and being heard.
How we can help you with making an abuse compensation claim
If you are seeking support or advice with making an abuse compensation claim (recent or non-recent) then please do not hesitate to contact our specialist abuse team for a free consultation. We will review your case compassionately and in complete confidence, and advise you about the availability of no win, no fee funding.
