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See other news storiesNumber of specialist domestic violence courts to double
12 September 2006
Victims of domestic violence will receive better support and care in new, specially equipped courts.
The government plans to expand the number of courts specialising in domestic violence from 25 to more than 50, after research showed the courts are having a real impact on prosecutions and convictions.
The new courts should be up and running by April 2007. They will join the existing specialist domestic violence courts as part of the government's effort to provide stronger legal protection for victims of domestic violence.
The existing domestic violence courts have already demonstrated that specialist courts are better equipped to deal with the complex issues involved in such cases, although all courts have shown improvement in recent years. According to the Crown Prosecution Service (new window), there's been an overall increase in convictions in cases of domestic violence throughout the court system, with the percentage of cases ending in convictions increasing from 46% in December 2003 to 59% in December 2005.
Cases tried in specialist courts, though, have a significantly higher success rate - 71% end in convictions.
A 'cowardly crime'
Prime Minister Tony Blair praised the work the courts and police are doing to combat domestic violence.
'Domestic violence is a frankly cowardly crime that no-one should have to suffer,' he said. 'We have already put in place stronger legal protection for victims, and we are expanding specialised courts to make sure that justice is done, and victims get the best possible care from criminal justice agencies.'
Combining resources and working together
Specialist domestic violence courts use a combined approach, bringing together police, crown prosecutors, magistrates and the probation service, as well as working with victim support services.
Domestic violence crimes are often hidden, and the emotions behind them so complex, that it takes the work of all of those agencies to identify, track, assess and stop the attackers, while also ensuring that victims are supported.
Domestic violence courts offer:
- dedicated prosecutors, police and magistrates, as well as legal advisors with extensive knowledge of domestic violence crimes
- fast-tracking of cases, ensuring they move quickly through the court system, limiting the likelihood of further incidents
- separate entrances, exists and waiting areas at the courts themselves, so that victims do not come into contact with their attackers
There are no excuses
Home Office Minister the Rt Hon Baroness Scotland QC said expanding the specialist courts would 'ensure that victims' interests and needs are put at the heart of the criminal justice system, and that those who experience this insidious crime have the confidence to come forward and report it.'
Constitutional Affairs Minister the Rt Hon Harriet Harman QC said she supported the move to expand the number of specialist courts. 'There is never any excuse for domestic violence,' she said. 'Saying "It's wrong, but there's nothing you can do about it" is simply not good enough.'
