Change Domestic Violence Laws
Empowering Survivors. Advocating for Justice
Proposed Law Reform:
Fast Protection
Orders & Privacy Safeguards
Victims of domestic violence should not be left waiting for protection. Delays in serving orders of protection can place victims at continued risk during the most dangerous moments. Orders of protection be served within 24 hours of issuance, ensuring immediate and enforceable safety measures for victims.
In addition, victim safety must include privacy. Court systems should not publicly display victims’ home addresses or sensitive personal information in online case records. Public access to this information can unintentionally expose victims to further harm.
Stronger privacy protections must be implemented so survivors can seek justice without compromising their safety.
Proposed Law Reform:
Right to Remain in the Home
No victim of domestic violence should be forced to flee their home, abandon their belongings, or disrupt their life to escape abuse. The burden of displacement should not fall on the victim—it should fall on the abuser.
Victims should have the legal right to remain safely in their home, with full access to their belongings, until legal proceedings—such as separation or divorce—are resolved.
These protections should include enforceable no-contact and stay-away orders to ensure the victim’s safety, stability, and peace of mind. Housing security is not a privilege—it is a fundamental right for those seeking safety from abuse.
Proposed Law Reform: Mandatory Domestic Violence Training for Law Enforcement
Effective response to domestic violence begins with proper training. Too often, victims are misunderstood, dismissed, or not adequately protected due to a lack of specialized knowledge.
A change for laws requiring all law enforcement officers to undergo mandatory domestic violence training every six months, along with certification in domestic violence response and victim support.
This training should include:
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Recognizing signs of abuse (including non-physical abuse)
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Understanding trauma and victim behavior
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Proper handling of domestic violence calls
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De-escalation techniques
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Ensuring equal and unbiased support for all victims, regardless of gender
Regular certification will ensure officers remain up to date on best practices and legal protections, leading to safer, more informed responses.
The Reality of Domestic Violence
1 in 4 women experience severe intimate partner violence
Many victims never seek help due to fear, stigma, or safety concerns
Millions of survivors deserve protection, support, and a voice