The 1987 case of Angelique Lavallee provides a roadmap for the “battered woman defence.” Canada’s first female Supreme Court justice, Bertha Wilson, attempts to expose systemic sexism in the justice system. Helen is charged with first-degree murder, and has to decide whether to accept a plea deal or go to trial.

Elizabeth Sheehy’s book is Defending Battered Women on Trial: Lessons from the Transcripts.

Theme song, “The Fighter,” by Jenn Grant.

Learn more about this podcast and domestic violence in Canada, or sign up for our newsletter at tgam.ca/inherdefence

E-mail the reporter at [email protected]

If you’re experiencing intimate partner violence and want to talk to someone, you can find resources and your nearest shelter at sheltersafe.ca

New subscribers to The Globe and Mail get a deal at globeandmail.com/podcastdeal