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June 30, 2006
Specialized family violence court opens in Airdrie
Airdrie... A new specialized domestic violence court in Airdrie will serve the community with quicker access to justice, more targeted services and counselling for both victims and the accused.
The Airdrie and District Domestic Violence Intervention Court was driven by a number of community stakeholders who felt strongly that the domestic violence court would positively address Airdrie's family violence cases.
"This is another great example of a community taking the initiative to work with the justice system to enhance the safety of victims and children," said Justice Minister Ron Stevens. "Success of these specialized courts relies on community support being available for both victims and the accused. I commend the police, prosecutors and the judiciary for understanding the unique nature of these crimes and dealing with them appropriately."
Airdrie is the seventh location in the province to offer a specialized court to deal with domestic violence cases. It's expected that the time needed for a matter to move from docket court to the accused's first appearance will be shortened from four to two weeks.
Shorter trial lead times in domestic violence cases and the collaborative work of social agencies have shown to significantly decrease the potential for abusers to re-offend. Statistics in Calgary, for instance, show that before counselling was provided for offenders, 34 per cent reoffended. After counselling, the rates dropped to about six per cent.
Domestic violence cases are often highly sensitive because the victim and the offender are in a relationship that may involve children, finances and emotional ties.
The court creates an avenue for government ministries, police and community agencies to work together to address family violence and participate collectively in the criminal justice response. This community collaboration is the most effective way to address the variety of factors contributing to family violence that can occur in any individual case. In responding, these organizations will share information, provide counselling, assist with safety planning, and ensure offenders abide by court orders.
As part of the government's plan to prevent and address family violence, specialized domestic violence courts have opened throughout the province in Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Red Deer and Fort McMurray.
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Media enquiries may be directed to:
Mark Cooper, Director
Justice Communications
(780) 427-8530
To call toll-free within Alberta dial 310-0000.
Copyright(c); 2006 Government of Alberta