Child Abuse, Child Protection and the Law is the first Scottish text to analyse the law relating to child abuse in terms of prevention, protection and proactivity. Providing the broadest possible coverage of this subject, the author offers detailed guidance on both the civil and criminal law mechanisms relating to the protection of children and the prosecution of sexual offences. The author also discusses the policy behind the law, as well as looking at preventative measures and the interface of the child protection and criminal justice mechanisms. This book will be essential reading for criminal and family lawyers, social workers, medical practitioners, police and youth workers.