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Does Fatal Accident Legislation Treat Gay Men and Gay Women Differently? - Gordon Exall, Zenith Chambers

25/10/14. As currently drafted the Fatal Accidents Act 1976 could treat gay men and gay women differently. Here I look at the reason why and examine the possible solution. Section 3(3) of the act provides that, in assessing damages, the court disregards the prospects of re-marriage and marriage of a widow.

“(3) In an action under this Act where there fall to be assessed damages payable to a widow in respect of the death of her husband there shall not be taken account the re-marriage of the widow or her prospects of...

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