By the time most of us reach adulthood we have undergone countless
             experiences which bring home the fact that life issues can rarely and
             conclusively be categorized as good or bad. The older we get, the larger
             are the grey areas' amongst our collection of absolutes. This fact is made
             most apparent in the field of criminal justice. It is while trying to
             analyze, evaluate and adjudicate amongst the foibles, frailties, and passions
             of humanity that it becomes increasingly difficult to draw a clear line
             between the innocent and the guilty, or the victim and the offender.
             Laws are formulated to ensure the safety and security of all members
             of society. In crimes involving force often more complex elements than mere
             malice are present. Statistics show that most violent crimes are
             perpetrated by individuals that have close relationships with the victims.
             About 50% of all homicides are perpetrated by a member of the victim's
             close family, often parent or spouse. When murders by more distant
             relatives, friends and acquaintances are taken into account, this figure
             rises to about 80%. Whether these are cases of child, wife or parent abuse,
             the ultimate crime is usually the consequence of a chronic problem.
             Should a battered and abused woman who kills her abuser be tried on
             the same grounds as a person who murders an innocent for self-gratification
             alone' Should a person who has been intolerably humiliated or terrified
             before he attacks his or her antagonist be considered a victim or an
             offender' The lines and limits of correct behavior are easily blurred. Such
             controversial questions are the reason clauses such as the Defense of
             Provocation' were introduced. It is due to the changes in societal values,
             culture, and ethical perceptions that such laws need constant review and
             modification. The main question remains however that; should any
             provocation ever be enough to justify r...