The existence of rape myths in the social consciousness and their potential to affect juror

deliberations in rape trials is well documented. Thus, it is increasingly likely that trial judges will wish

to seek to counteract the negative effects of these myths when directing the jury in rape trials. For trial

judges who wish to do this, there is a real challenge in seeking to educate jurors whilst at the same

time providing a balanced direction. This article addresses ways in which Irish trial judges may be

assisted so as to enable them to warn the jury of the erroneous nature of prevailing stereotypes about

sexual offences without unfairly prejudicing the defendant's case.