NCJ Number
144532
Date Published
1993
Length
33 pages
Annotation
The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) sponsored two major family violence research projects from 1986 to 1990.
Abstract
The two projects, conducted at 11 demonstration sites in courts nationwide, were designed to develop and document improved justice system practices for handling cases of family violence. One emphasized criminal prosecution; the other, coordination of services. This program brief elucidates on 10 critical elements: program leadership, early case identification and response, designated personnel, coordination, written policies, vigorous and affirmative prosecution, formal entry of court orders, formal monitoring and enforcement, treatment programs for batterers, training for police and court personnel, and the price tag on all these elements. Immediate goals might include increased arrests and prosecutions; more intensive supervision of offenders; establishment of treatment services for batterers and victims; case information automation; and coordination among police, service professionals, and the courts. In the long term, however, successful efforts should produce reductions in arrests and punitive measures that would indicate a reduction in the incidence of family violence.