Helen Nile
Helen qualified as a solicitor in 1998 having completed her training as a solicitor with t...
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Extra Protection for Victims of Domestic Violence
(21st August | 12:37)
From 30 September this year, at the conclusion of criminal proceedings relating to domestic violence, the Courts will have the power to impose restraining orders on the person who has been accused of the crime. This will apply even if the person concerned is cleared of the charges made against them but is still considered to be a threat to his or her victim.
At the moment, victims in this situation who want further protection at the conclusion of criminal proceedings have to pursue an application through the civil court system for an injunction. This would be the case even if the person accused of domestic violence has been convicted. The cost, both financially and emotionally, of undertaking this puts further pressure on victims.
From the information released by the government, it appears that the sanction for breaching a restraining order imposed in these circumstances could be a jail term of up to five years.
The plan has been welcomed by those who campaign on behalf of victims of domestic violence although it has been stressed that the success of the measure will depend on the police being provided with adequate resources and training to implement and enforce the orders effectively.
What do you think? Is this a sensible move and is there still more that the government and the courts can do to help victims of domestic violence?
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