Local Law Firms Home > Criminal Defense News > Jodi Arias’ Criminal Defense Strategy Based on Domestic Violence Did you know? Battered woman syndrome can be used as a criminal defense for justifiable homicide. Starting in the mid-1970s, battered woman syndrome has been acceptable to courts as a reason for self-defense, even in homicide cases where the woman has been charged with killing an abusive spouse or boyfriend. Battered woman syndrome can be proven with the help of expert testimony. |