Prosecuting Domestic Violence: A Review of Current Policy, Research, and Practice Initiatives

Abstract

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. AUTHOR(S)CAPT ROSSI ROBERT C FUNDING NUMBERS PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND COLLEGE PARK Abstract This paper describes current innovations developed or used by prosecutors as applied specifically towards domestic violence. Both the increasing demand for a more effective criminal justice system response to domestic violence and the changing role of the prosecutor have fostered the development and implementation of many innovative strategies for dealing with the unique issues and problems related to domestic violence. After discussing the history of domestic violence prosecution and its influence on the changing role of the prosecutor, the paper reviews four general types of initiatives currently employed by prosecutors specific to domestic violence cases. Each is described in terms of its prevalence, advantages, limitations, and relative success. General limitations and constraints inherent to domestic violence, prosecution, and policy evaluation are also discussed. Finally, policy recommendations relative to current research and practice are presented. Given the lack of conclusive research and the variability among jurisdictions, prosecutors must often rely on their own evaluations in measuring the effectiveness of their programs. While most innovations are tested largely only through direct implementation, continued research is certainly warranted, and should be undertaken in conjunction with the most promising practices. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)