By Chief District Court Judge Russell Johnson with the assistance of Rebecca Paton (LLB/BA), Research Counsel to the Chief District Court Judge Original URL: http://www.police.govt.nz/events_files/2005/ngakia-kia-puawai/johnson-on-evolution-of-family-violence-courts-in-nz.pdf

This paper, prepared for the Police Executive Conference in Nelson in 2005, describes the evolution of Family Violence Criminal Courts in New Zealand. After discussing the incidence of domestic violence in New Zealand and the legislative framework within which justice agencies respond to it, the paper describes the attempts District Courts have made to improve the speed and efficiency of domestic violence prosecutions, and the adoption of a more, problem-solving approach to domestic violence (as recommended by The Law Commission). Important aspects of problem solving courts are described such as using processes that seek to gain support from family, outside agencies, and victims. Two examples of problem-solving courts are discussed in the paper: the Waitakere Family Violence Court, which is described as partially successfully in experimenting in a complex and difficult area of jurisprudence and social conflict; and the Manukau Family Violence Court which is commended for the decision to group family violence for sentencing purposes into four distinct categories, depending on the nature of the incident. Evidence and police investigation methods relevant to domestic violence are also discussed. The paper concludes that police and court processes are being improved, contributing to an effective response to the serious social issue of domestic violence.

nz