Domestic Violence Court Committee
Return to Starting a Family Violence Task Force
Goal: FVTFs should assign a committee to develop a specialized domestic violence court in their jurisdiction.
Objectives:
- The committee should review and discuss the Georgia Domestic Violence Court Best Practices Guide, and frequently refer to the resources listed in the guide.
- The committee should examine their current processes for domestic violence cases, and conduct a review of strengths and opportunities.
- FVTFs should develop a comprehensive list of court personnel and stakeholders, and ensure they have representation in court planning, and FVTF membership as well. The personnel and stakeholders on this list should convene to familiarize each other with their position and function in domestic violence cases.
- FVTFs should contact GCFV for technical assistance and guidance.
Goal: FVTFs should train domestic violence court personnel and stakeholders before the court launches, and continue ongoing training on a regular basis.
Objectives:
- Judicial training is a crucial part of launching a domestic violence court. Judges set the tone for the court, so initial and consistent training is important.
Judicial training resources include:
- The National Judicial Institute on Domestic Violence provides a specialized, two-part course for judges on domestic violence.
- The American Judges Association, with the assistance of Futures Without Violence, and the National Center for State Courts, has developed free, online training modules specifically for judges who hear domestic violence cases.
- Court personnel and stakeholder training is also important when developing and operating a domestic violence court. GCFV offers domestic violence dynamics training, as well as training on other domestic violence topics.
- FVTFs should consistently evaluate the effect and impact the domestic violence court has on family violence victims.