Coronation Street ‘s Yasmeen Nazir has suffered months of torment at the hands of her husband Geoff Metcalfe, but the trauma isn’t over yet.
Last Friday saw Yasmeen (Shelley King) stab Geoff (Ian Bartholomew) in the neck in an act of self-defence, as he squared up to her in the kitchen.
In a state of panic, as Geoff lay lifeless on the floor, she phoned the police and confessed to killing her husband.
Coronation Street spoilers have revealed Yasmeen will go to court for attempted murder, while Geoff spews lies about their relationship from his hospital bed.
Speaking exclusively to Daily Star Online, Sarah Jane Lenihan, Partner at Stowe Family Law, discussed Yasmeen’s fate in the docks.
Lenihan explained that Yasmeen’s chances of release depend on her interview in the police station and whether she decides to plead guilty to the crime.
However, Yasmeen’s case is hindered by the fact that Geoff’s abuse took place behind closed doors – meaning there are no witnesses to his behaviour.
Lenihan said: “The difficulty Yasmeen may have is as that she did not report the abusive relationship to any third party, whether this be friends, family, or the Police/GP, so there will be little evidence available in support of her account, if in fact she does tell the police about the abuse.
Yasmeen will face trial for attempted murder in upcoming scenes on Coronation Street (Image: ITV)
“It is not unusual that a victim will not report domestic abuse out of fear, even when faced with a serious charge such as attempted murder.”
With years of experience in working with victims of domestic violence, Lenihan explained that many will plead guilty, falling mercy to the justice system.
She said: “Sadly, many victims will plead guilty upon charge. Not even realising that their experience of domestic abuse could be a reason not to prosecute under the public interest test.
“It is suspected that this test is often not applied properly, due to the fact that the abuse is often not disclosed.”
Yasmeen’s case could be a difficult one to prove, Lenihan explained, saying: “Self-defence is very difficult to establish in a case of reactive violence by a survivor of domestic abuse against an abusive partner where a jury may well conclude that the response was disproportionate without taking into account the long history of abuse.”
Lenihan explained that victims of domestic violence can sometimes struggle to get justice through the courts
She added: “It is generally felt the experience of victims of domestic abuse is not given enough regard in the criminal justice system and that the current legal defences available do not provide them with enough protection.”
If she goes to prison, the sentence could have a hugely damaging effect on Yasmeen’s mental wellbeing, especially following months of abuse at the hands of Geoff.
Lenihan said: “Victims will often suffer with poor mental health including depression, anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, which imprisonment will compound and have a detrimental impact on them and any dependent children.
Geoff has survived the stabbing, meaning he can provide false statements about Yasmeen’s behaviour (Image: ITV)
“In addition to this, their situation may worsen financially and leave them in poverty once released.
“Sadly, this will be too much for some and lead to self-harm, substance abuse and even suicide.”
As heartbreaking as it is to watch, Yasmeen’s ordeal will hopefully inspire similar victims of domestic violence to seek help from the authorities and charities.
Lenihan said: “The biggest advice I can give is if you are suffering domestic abuse, it is important that you seek advice early on. I appreciate this is easier said than done, but it really can be a lifesaver.
Can Imran successfully guarantee Yasmeen’s freedom? (Image: ITV)
“Early help can hopefully save lives and assist in a reduction of those who end up facing potential criminal charges when they feel that they are left without any other option.
“In the event that a victim is faced with a criminal charge, it is extremely important that they take specialist legal advice and disclose all the relevant background. If they have previously reported incidents, or behaviour to friends, family or third parties such as the Police, Local Authority, or GP this can also assist even if at the time no further action was taken.”
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7.30pm.
For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
