NCJ Number
121861
Date Published
1986
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This protocol provides guidance to all Denver (Colorado) district attorney personnel in the handling of domestic violence issues and cases.
Abstract
Such cases are defined as any situation in which "very unequal power relationships practically forbid a victim from effectively asserting his/her own rights as a witness." As a general policy, once a case has been filed and is in the system, it should be prosecuted despite victim protests. Deferred prosecutions will not be offered in these cases. Such cases should be given top priority on the trial docket, meaning that unnecessary continuances should be challenged. Plea negotiations should not be conducted on or near the trial day unless the defendant has already begun a valid treatment program. The defendant and defense counsel should be informed that witness intimidation or tampering will be prosecuted. When the victim has been repeatedly abused, alternative housing should be arranged for the victim. Victims should be cultivated so that despite all forms of intimidation and emotional conflicts, they are able to appear in court and tell the truth.