Justice Under Lockdown

Abstract

This chapter provides a cross-country exploration of policing and court responses to domestic and family violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. While traditional policing and court response models were disrupted during the pandemic, many police forces and courts adapted their practices, building on already existing digital and remotely enabled options to ensure access to justice was maintained throughout the pandemic. Using empirical data from England and Wales as a case study, this chapter examines the ongoing viability of these options for the delivery of justice, especially for those experiencing DFV, and considers the preparedness of criminal justice systems for future crises.