Domestic Violence Courts — Statement Of Policy

TITLE 32 DOMESTIC RELATIONS CHAPTER 14 COORDINATED FAMILY SERVICES 32-1408. domestic violence courts — statement of policy. The legislature finds that: (1)  Domestic violence is a serious crime that causes substantial damage to victims and children, as well as to the community. Families experiencing domestic violence are often involved in more than one (1) court proceeding including divorce and custody cases, as well as civil and criminal proceedings regarding domestic violence, substance abuse and child protection. Substantial state and county resources are required each year for the incarceration, supervision and treatment of batterers. (2)  Domestic violence courts hold offenders accountable, increase victim safety, provide greater judicial monitoring and coordinate information to provide effective interaction and use of resources among the courts, justice system personnel and community agencies. Effective case management and coordination ensure that decisions in one (1) case do not conflict with existing orders in other civil and criminal cases and provide courts with the necessary information to protect victims and families. (3)  Domestic violence courts have proven effective in reducing recidivism and increasing victim safety. It is in the best interests of the citizens of this state to expand domestic violence courts to each judicial district.