Citation

Robinson AL. Howard J. Crim. Just. 2007; 46(4): 356-371.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Howard League for Penal Reform, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1468-2311.2007.00482.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This exploratory study investigated the ‘interface’ between the civil and criminal courts in Cardiff using information from victims of domestic violence, advocates, and solicitors. The ‘interface’ between civil and criminal courts is completely dependent upon the advocates that support victims through the legal process, rather than any formal policy or procedure. Whilst in Cardiff these arrangements appear to be effective, developing the interface between civil and criminal courts needs to be a national endeavour to provide a consistent and streamlined response to victims of domestic violence. The co-ordination of civil with criminal justice represents the best hope of keeping victims and their children safe.