NCJ Number
138543
Journal
Hamline Law Review Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Dated: (Fall 1991) Pages: 105-114
Date Published
1992
Length
10 pages
Annotation
In this discussion of domestic violence, the Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice describes Minnesota laws and programs addressing this issue and urges cooperation among educational, business, religious, legal, medical, media, recreational, and community organizations both to prevent violence and to support healthy, nurturing families.
Abstract
Domestic violence has long occurred and is the single most common cause of injury to American women. Improved primary prevention efforts would reduce the need for intervention. Minnesota has a relatively progressive statutory scheme governing domestic violence. Under civil law, a victim can obtain an ex parte order to remove the perpetrator from the home, receive temporary custody of the children, or provide other remedies. Minnesota also has an extensive criminal assault statute. In addition, several cities have mandatory arrest policies, an important component of the legal remedy. Victims are also allowed limited participation in dispositions, and advocates are permitted in court for the victims of domestic violence. Efforts are also under way to improve the training of judges.