The criminal justice system (CJS) is often the last hope for domestic abuse survivors seeking justice and protection. However, a recent report from the Domestic Abuse Commissioner (DAC) highlights significant shortcomings in how the system responds to victims. Titled “A Criminal Justice System that Works for Survivors?”, the report provides a deep analysis of existing failures and proposes critical reforms to improve survivor outcomes.
The Harsh Reality for Survivors
Despite legal frameworks designed to protect victims, many survivors of domestic abuse still struggle to access justice. The DAC report outlines a justice system that is slow, inconsistent, and, in many cases, retraumatising.
Key findings include:
- Low conviction rates – Many cases fail to progress due to lack of evidence, victim withdrawal, or institutional shortcomings.
- Delays in court proceedings – Survivors often wait months, even years, for their cases to be heard, prolonging their trauma.
- Lack of support services – Victims frequently navigate the legal process alone, with limited access to specialist domestic abuse advocates.
- Police and prosecutorial failures – Inconsistent policing practices and a lack of understanding about coercive control lead to cases being dropped prematurely.
Survivors Deserve Better: What Needs to Change?
The report makes several urgent recommendations to transform the system, including:
- Survivor-Centred Approach: The justice system must prioritise victims’ safety and well-being by providing consistent support and safeguarding measures.
- Stronger Legal Protections: Enhancing the enforcement of restraining orders and improving access to protective measures such as anonymity for survivors in court.
- Faster Case Progression: Reducing delays in the court system to prevent victims from being left in limbo.
- Better Police Training: Ensuring officers are properly trained to recognise patterns of coercive control and psychological abuse.
- Specialist Domestic Abuse Courts: Creating courts dedicated to domestic abuse cases to improve expertise and victim support.
The Need for Action
Domestic abuse is a systemic issue that requires a coordinated, survivor-led response. The DAC’s report is a wake-up call for policymakers, law enforcement, and the judiciary to take urgent action. Without meaningful reform, survivors will continue to face unnecessary hurdles in seeking justice.
As a society, we must ask: Is our criminal justice system truly working for survivors? If not, it’s time to demand change.
For more details, you can read the full report here
