Vulnerability as a Contested Concept and is difficult concept to define. Experiencing some degree of vulnerability is applicable to everyone, rendering it a universal experience, and yet, one which is perceived differently by various individuals with differing identities and life histories (Fineman, 2010). Yet, being vulnerable and seeing others as such is socially constructed, this results in nuances in our understanding and responses, which may differ depending upon varying offences and circumstances (Fineman, 2010; Green, 2012). This chapter provides a brief overview of competing theories of vulnerability and victimisation, ranging from right realism to Marxist and Feminist structurally focused explanations, including vulnerability theory (Wolhuter et al., 2009; Hickey, 2023). Vulnerability is an important facet of society. The concept impacts the Criminal Justice System’s actors, agencies, and people individually. However, it is not always straightforward to conceptualise or understand. Not all victims are always good, and not all offenders are always bad, and there is inherently a binary divide between the two (Green, 2012). In some cases, a victim may be less vulnerable than a person who offended against them. Thus, recognising and accepting vulnerability and those who might be considered vulnerable victims can be a challenge. This introduction explores the term “vulnerable victim” and critically examines both component words and the holistic phrase, exploring associated connotations and complexities.